Introduction

Short ribs glazed with honey and garlic present a delectable main course that combines rich flavors and tender meat. This dish is ideal for gatherings or special occasions, offering a savory experience that will impress your guests. The sweet and savory balance created by the honey and garlic elevates the already luxurious short ribs, making it a dish to remember.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Beef short ribs (1.5 kg)
Honey (100 g)
Garlic cloves, minced (6)
Soy sauce (60 ml)
Ground black pepper (to taste)
Salt (to taste)
Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
Fresh thyme (a few sprigs)

Prep Time

Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering ingredients and preparing the marinade.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cooking time takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your cooking method. The total time, including preparation and cooking, is around 3 hours. This recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or a dinner party.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the short ribs

Begin by seasoning the short ribs generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Allow them to marinate at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Sear the short ribs

In a large Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the short ribs in batches, searing them until browned on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the seared ribs and set them aside.

Sauté the garlic

In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and add chopped garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Add remaining ingredients

Pour in the honey, soy sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Return the ribs to the pot

Place the seared short ribs back into the pot. Ensure they are submerged in the liquid as much as possible.

Simmer the ribs

Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the short ribs simmer gently for about 2 to 2.5 hours until they are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.

Prepare to serve

Once the ribs are done cooking, remove them from the pot and place them on a serving platter. Optionally, skim off any excess fat from the sauce.

Thicken the sauce

If a thicker sauce is desired, increase the heat to medium-high and boil the sauce for a few minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency.

Serve the dish

Drizzle the thickened sauce over the short ribs and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Choosing the right ribs

Select well-marbled short ribs for optimal flavor and tenderness during cooking.

Serving suggestions

These short ribs pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storing leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking the short ribs allows the meat to become tender and juicy as it simmers in the flavorful sauce. This technique is ideal for tougher cuts of meat, breaking down the collagen and resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Marinating

Marinating the ribs in the honey and garlic mixture enhances the flavor profile. It’s important to allow enough time for the marinade to penetrate the meat, ideally several hours or overnight.

Searing

Searing the ribs before slow cooking creates a rich, caramelized crust. This enhances the depth of flavor and adds a beautiful color to the dish, making for a more visually appealing presentation.

Deglazing

After searing the meat, deglazing the pan with broth or wine helps to dissolve the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step is essential for building a rich sauce and maximizing flavor.

Simmering

Simmering the ribs in the sauce allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s crucial to maintain a low simmer to ensure the meat cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors without drying out.

FAQ

Can I use other cuts of beef instead of short ribs?

Yes, you can substitute other cuts like chuck or brisket, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the cut’s thickness and toughness.

How long do I need to cook the short ribs?

Short ribs typically require several hours of slow cooking, about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the cooking method used.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors tend to improve when the dish is made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

What should I serve with short ribs?

Short ribs pair well with mashed potatoes, polenta, or a side of roasted vegetables, which can complement the richness of the meat.

Is it necessary to marinate the ribs?

While marinating enhances the flavor, it is not strictly necessary. You can skip this step if you’re short on time; however, marinating is recommended for the best results.

Conclusion

The Short Ribs with Honey and Garlic recipe delivers a delightful balance of rich flavors and tender meat. The combination of honey and garlic creates a unique sauce that enhances the beef’s natural taste. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, promising to impress your guests with its savory goodness.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic Mashed Potatoes

Pair the short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes, which will soak up the delicious sauce and complement the dish seamlessly.

Roasted Vegetables

Serve alongside a medley of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal.

Garlic Bread

Add a side of garlic bread to provide a crunchy texture and help scoop up the flavorful sauce.

Coleslaw

A fresh coleslaw can add a crunchy contrast to the rich flavors of the short ribs, balancing the meal nicely.

Red Wine Pairing

Consider pairing your dish with a glass of full-bodied red wine, which will enhance the meaty flavors of the short ribs.