Description
Short Rib Ragu is the epitome of comfort food, delivering rich, savory flavors that warm the soul. This delightful Italian dish features tender, slow-cooked beef short ribs simmered with aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, and herbs to create a sauce that’s perfect for pairing with hearty pasta or creamy polenta. Ideal for family gatherings or elegant dinner parties, this ragu not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your guests with its depth of flavor and inviting aroma. Serve it garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmigiano Reggiano for an added touch of elegance.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 tbsp light olive oil
- 1 cup white onion, finely diced
- ½ cup celery, finely diced
- ½ cup carrot, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup red apple vinegar
- 1 cup broth (beef or chicken)
- 1¾ cups crushed tomatoes (14 oz can)
- Herb bundle (rosemary, thyme, parsley stems)
- 2 bay leaves
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season beef short ribs with kosher salt.
- In a large braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the short ribs until browned on all sides. Remove them from the pot.
- Sauté onion, celery, carrot, and garlic in the same pot until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste, salt, and pepper; deglaze with red apple vinegar.
- Return short ribs to the pot along with broth and crushed tomatoes. Add herbs and bay leaves.
- Simmer uncovered for about 2 to 2½ hours until tender. Shred meat as needed.
- Adjust seasoning before serving over pasta or polenta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For extra flavor depth, let the ragu rest for a few hours or overnight before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can substitute other cuts like chuck roast if preferred.