Name: Apple Vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2.5 lbs beef short ribs (bone-in); Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 cups apple vinegar; 2 cups beef broth; Fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves for seasoning; 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

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The apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes is a dish that will impress your family and friends at any gathering. This recipe features rich, tender beef ribs braised in tangy apple vinegar, served over creamy mashed potatoes. Ideal for cozy dinners or special occasions, this meal combines comforting flavors with a delightful twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fall-apart tender meat: The slow braising process ensures the beef short ribs become incredibly tender and flavorful.
Unique flavor profile: The use of apple vinegar adds an unexpected tang that perfectly balances the richness of the beef.
Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe doesn’t require advanced cooking skills.
Versatile dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at dinner parties, it fits various occasions seamlessly.
Comfort food classic: The buttery mashed potatoes complement the savory beef, making this a quintessential comfort meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Dutch oven or heavy pot
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Potato masher

Importance of Each Tool

Dutch oven or heavy pot: This tool is perfect for braising as it retains heat well and allows for even cooking.
Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping quick and easy, ensuring precision in your ingredient preparation.
Potato masher: This tool ensures your mashed potatoes achieve a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Braised Beef:

2.5 lbs beef short ribs (bone-in)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups dry apple vinegar (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
2 cups beef broth
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter

How to Make apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by seasoning the beef short ribs generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Chop all vegetables—onion, carrots, celery—and mince the garlic to have everything ready.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In your Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned short ribs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a nice crust. Remove them from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze with Apple Vinegar

Pour in the apple vinegar while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Add Broth and Herbs

Return the browned short ribs to the pot along with beef broth. Add fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Braise in Oven

Cover your pot with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C). Let it braise for about 3 hours or until the beef is tender.

Step 7: Prepare Mashed Potatoes

While the beef is braising, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add cubed Yukon gold potatoes and cook until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain well.

Step 8: Mash Potatoes

Return drained potatoes to the pot over low heat. Add unsalted butter and mash until smooth. Season with salt as needed.

Step 9: Serve Together

Once the beef is done braising, remove from oven. Discard bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Serve braised beef short ribs over a generous scoop of buttery mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

How to Serve apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Serving apple vinegar braised beef short ribs over buttery mashed potatoes is a delightful experience. The savory richness of the beef pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the potatoes, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Plating Suggestions

Create a Layered Presentation: Place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on the plate, then top with the braised beef short ribs, allowing the sauce to cascade over the potatoes.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and added freshness.

Accompaniment Ideas

Serve with a Side Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish.
Pair with Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add texture and a nutritious element to your meal.

How to Perfect apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your apple vinegar braised beef short ribs turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Choose Quality Meat: Select well-marbled beef short ribs for maximum tenderness and flavor during cooking.
Sear Before Braising: Searing the meat in olive oil enhances its flavor by creating a rich crust before slow cooking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs elevate the taste of your dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.
Let It Rest: Allowing the meat to rest after cooking helps retain juices, resulting in more tender bites.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes

To complement your meal of apple vinegar braised beef short ribs with buttery mashed potatoes, consider these delicious side dishes. Each option adds variety and enhances your dining experience.

Garlic Roasted Asparagus: This simple yet flavorful side features asparagus tossed in garlic and olive oil, roasted until tender.
Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich meat and potatoes. Use a creamy dressing for added indulgence.
Herbed Quinoa: Lightly seasoned quinoa adds a nutty flavor while providing a healthy grain option that complements the meal.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey provide vibrant color and sweetness that balance out savory flavors.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your plate.
Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze create a delightful tang that pairs well with beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcrowding the pan. This can prevent the beef from browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary to allow space for proper searing.
Don’t forget to season generously. Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning at different stages of cooking.
Be cautious with cooking time. Cooking too short will result in tough meat, while overcooking can dry it out. Follow recommended times closely for best results.
Skipping the resting period can affect texture. Let the beef rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, leading to more tender ribs.
Use a thermometer if unsure about doneness. Relying solely on time can be misleading; checking internal temperature ensures perfectly cooked beef.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 3 months.
Separate components (ribs and potatoes) for best texture upon reheating.

Reheating apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of beef for apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes?
The best cuts are those that have good marbling like chuck or plate. These cuts become tender when braised due to their connective tissue breaking down.

Can I substitute apple vinegar with another type of vinegar?
Yes, you can use other vinegars such as white wine vinegar or even balsamic vinegar, but it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

How do I know when the beef short ribs are done?
The ribs are done when they are fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone, generally after several hours of braising.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Braised beef short ribs often taste better the next day as flavors meld. Just store them properly and reheat when ready to serve.

What sides pair well with apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes?
Besides mashed potatoes, consider serving roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes recipe offers rich flavors and tender meat that melt in your mouth. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices!