Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this recipe for Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce. The slow-cooked beef short ribs are transformed into tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces, paired with a rich and creamy sauce that’s infused with cognac, wine, and fragrant herbs. This dish is perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something luxurious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 5 lbs bone-in beef short ribs

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced

• 6 garlic cloves, chopped

• ½ cup cognac or brandy (substitute with broth for a non-alcoholic version)

• 1 cup marsala wine, white wine, or broth

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup chopped kale (optional)

• 2 tablespoons salted butter

• 8 fresh sage leaves

• Salt, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Ribs: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Season the short ribs generously with freshly ground black pepper. Place the ribs in a large oven-safe braiser or Dutch oven, and scatter the sliced onions, chopped garlic, and thyme leaves over the meat. Pour in the cognac, marsala wine (or broth), and ½ cup of water.

2. Roast the Ribs: Cover the braiser with a lid or foil and place it in the oven. Roast for 2½ to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat is falling off the bone. Turn the ribs halfway through for even cooking.

3. Enhance the Sauce: After the ribs are tender, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Remove the lid, skim off any excess fat from the sauce, and stir in the heavy cream, kale (if using), and butter. Roast uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the ribs to caramelize.

4. Fry the Sage: While the ribs are finishing, heat a small skillet over medium heat and melt some butter. Add the sage leaves and fry them until crispy and aromatic. Remove and set them aside on a paper towel to drain.

5. Serve: Serve the braised short ribs hot, generously spooned with the creamy herb sauce. Garnish with fried sage leaves and extra thyme, and enjoy with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Value (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 710 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 7g

• Protein: 44g

• Fat: 52g

  • Saturated Fat: 21g

• Sodium: 405mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 3g

• Vitamin A: 753 IU

• Vitamin C: 8mg

• Calcium: 376mg

• Iron: 3mg

Tips for Perfect Braised Short Ribs

• Bone-In is Best: Bone-in short ribs add flavor and help keep the meat tender.

• Skim the Fat: Skim off the fat during cooking for a less greasy sauce.

• Slow Cooking: Be patient and let the meat cook low and slow to break down the connective tissue for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Wine Substitutes: For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the wine and cognac with broth.

Variations

• Alcohol-Free: Use broth instead of cognac and wine for a non-alcoholic version.

• Herb Substitutions: Rosemary or parsley can be used in place of thyme and sage for different flavor profiles.

• Vegetable Additions: Add carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the braiser for more depth and nutrition.

This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for family gatherings or a special dinner, offering both comfort and elegance in every bite!

The Art of Braising and Slow Cooking Short Ribs

Braising is a technique that allows tougher cuts of meat, like beef short ribs, to break down slowly into tender, succulent pieces. By cooking the meat in a low, steady heat with liquid, the tough collagen in the meat turns into gelatin, which imparts a silky texture and rich flavor. The longer the short ribs are braised, the more tender and flavorful they become. Slow cooking also allows the ingredients—like onions, garlic, and herbs—to meld together, creating a harmonious base that deepens the dish’s taste profile.

The braising process for this recipe is designed to ensure that the short ribs are not only tender but also infused with the savory flavors of cognac, wine, and fresh herbs. As the ribs roast in the oven, the meat becomes deeply infused with the flavors from the sauce, making each bite a luxurious experience.

Choosing the Right Cut of Short Ribs

When it comes to preparing braised short ribs, selecting the right cut is key. Bone-in short ribs are the best choice for this recipe, as the bone adds additional flavor and moisture during the cooking process. The marrow inside the bones also contributes to the richness of the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor. Bone-in short ribs are often considered the most flavorful, as the fat surrounding the bone melts into the meat, resulting in a tender, juicy texture.

It’s also important to note that short ribs can be found in different cuts, with the English-style ribs being the most common for braising. These ribs are cut parallel to the bone, resulting in larger, meatier pieces. This cut ensures that the ribs hold up well during the long, slow cooking process, allowing them to retain their shape and texture.

The Key Ingredients for a Flavorful Braise

The combination of cognac, wine, and herbs forms the backbone of the braising liquid. The cognac adds a subtle depth and complexity, while the wine provides acidity, balancing out the richness of the meat. The wine also contributes additional layers of flavor as it reduces during the braising process. Whether you choose marsala, white wine, or broth, each of these options will add a distinct note to the sauce, with wine bringing a touch of sweetness and complexity, and broth offering a more neutral base.

In addition to the alcoholic components, fresh thyme and sage bring earthy and aromatic flavors to the dish. These herbs are classic choices for braised meats and work beautifully with beef. The heavy cream, stirred in towards the end, transforms the sauce into a creamy, luxurious consistency that clings to the meat, adding an indulgent touch.

Another optional ingredient is kale, which not only adds a vibrant color to the dish but also brings a slight bitterness that balances out the richness of the sauce. While kale is not essential, it provides a nutritious and textural contrast to the soft meat and creamy sauce.

Perfecting the Creamy Herb Sauce

The creamy herb sauce is what truly elevates this dish. As the ribs roast in the oven, the braising liquid thickens into a rich sauce. Once the ribs are tender, heavy cream is added to create a smooth, silky texture. The addition of butter enhances the richness of the sauce, adding an extra layer of luxury to the dish. The final roasting step, uncovered, allows the sauce to reduce and caramelize slightly, intensifying the flavors.

Skimming off excess fat from the sauce is an important step to ensure that the dish doesn’t become overly greasy. This process helps to maintain the balance of flavors while ensuring a more refined sauce. Once the sauce is finished, it envelops the ribs in a creamy coating that’s both decadent and comforting.

The Role of Sage and Thyme in the Dish

Sage and thyme are integral to the flavor profile of this dish, adding both fragrance and flavor. These herbs are traditionally used in braised meat recipes, especially in the Mediterranean and European cuisines. Thyme’s slightly floral and earthy taste complements the richness of the beef, while sage provides a warm, savory note with just a hint of bitterness.

To finish the dish, crispy fried sage leaves are added as a garnish. This final touch not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also offers a crispy contrast to the tender, braised meat. The fried sage leaves infuse the dish with a lovely, aromatic crunch that ties the flavors together.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

As a dish that features both cognac and wine, pairing Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce with a good bottle of wine can truly elevate the dining experience. A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, or Zinfandel, works beautifully with this dish. These wines have enough structure and richness to complement the deep flavors of the beef and the creamy sauce. For those who prefer white wine, a rich, oaked Chardonnay or a full-bodied white Burgundy can be an excellent choice.

If you’re serving this dish during a special occasion or dinner party, a wine pairing will enhance the luxurious feeling of the meal, making it a memorable experience for your guests.

Serving Suggestions

Braised short ribs in creamy herb sauce are the epitome of comfort and luxury, so serving them alongside simple, hearty sides helps balance the richness of the dish. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a warm loaf of crusty bread are all excellent options. The mashed potatoes serve as the perfect canvas to soak up the creamy sauce, while roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts, provide a touch of sweetness and texture.

For a more elegant presentation, serve the short ribs on a bed of mashed potatoes or alongside roasted root vegetables, garnished with extra fresh herbs or a drizzle of the sauce. This dish is sure to impress any guests, making it a fantastic choice for holidays, celebratory dinners, or even a casual yet refined family meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce is a show-stopping dish that combines the best of slow-cooked comfort food with a touch of elegance. The tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, paired with the rich and creamy sauce, creates a meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone at the table wanting more. From the initial braising to the final garnish of crispy sage, every step in the preparation of this dish ensures an unforgettable dining experience.