Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs (Printable)

Slow-braised short ribs in apple cider with aromatics, perfect for cooler seasons and hearty gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 3 pounds bone-in beef short ribs

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 medium yellow onions, sliced
03 - 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
04 - 2 celery stalks, chopped
05 - 4 cloves garlic, minced

→ Liquids

06 - 2 cups apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
07 - 1 cup beef broth
08 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste

→ Spices & Herbs

09 - 2 sprigs fresh thyme
10 - 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
11 - 2 bay leaves
12 - 1 teaspoon salt, more to taste
13 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Fats

14 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

# How To Make:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
02 - Pat beef short ribs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear short ribs on all sides until browned, about 8 minutes total. Transfer to a plate.
04 - Add onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned, approximately 6 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
05 - Add tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
06 - Pour in apple cider and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
07 - Nestle seared short ribs among vegetables in the pot. Add thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
08 - Bring mixture to a simmer, cover with lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
09 - Braise for 2½ to 3 hours, or until beef is fork-tender and nearly falling off the bone.
10 - Remove ribs and vegetables to a serving platter. Skim excess fat from the sauce; discard bay leaves and herb stems. Optionally, reduce sauce over medium heat. Serve short ribs with sauce spooned over the top.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Clean ingredients with no common allergens make it perfect for sharing with all kinds of eaters
  • Slow braising guarantees fork-tender beef every time
  • Apple cider adds a natural sweetness without refined sugar or packaged flavorings
  • This dish is versatile and perfect for holidays, Sunday dinner, or a make-ahead family meal
  • The flavors deepen overnight so leftovers taste even better
02 -
  • Gluten free and safe for many dietary needs
  • Packed with protein and vegetables for a wholesome main course
  • Freezes beautifully for future meals
03 -
  • Dry short ribs well before seasoning and searing for a golden crust
  • Use the same pot from stovetop to oven for easy cleanup and full flavor retention
  • Let the finished ribs rest a few minutes before serving to keep juices inside

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