Braised Short Rib Recipe Tomato Chili Lacquer With Carrot Coins

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I’ve refined this braised short rib recipe Tomato Chili Lacquer With Carrot Coins over many family dinners, and it always earns rave reviews.

The rich aroma of a simmering Tomato Chili Lacquer, clinging to incredibly tender short ribs alongside vibrant Carrot Coins, promises a truly unforgettable meal. This family-friendly dish is the comforting, easy fix you need for impressive flavor without endless kitchen time. Busy parents and home cooks will appreciate this hearty, high-protein meal, perfect for a cozy Sunday or a special weeknight.

Ingredient Breakdown & Smart Alternatives

Core list for your braised short rib recipe success:

Beef Short Ribs: 3-4 pounds (1.4-1.8 kg) bone-in or boneless (rich flavor). Look for good marbling.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) (for searing).
Onion: 1 large (diced) (aromatic base).
Carrots: 2 large (diced) (sweetness).
Celery: 2 stalks (diced) (savory depth).
Garlic: 4 cloves (minced) (aroma).
Tomato Paste: 3 tablespoons (45g) (umami, thickener).
Diced Tomatoes: 1 (28-ounce/794g) can (sauce base).
Chilies: 2-3 chipotle chilies in adobo, minced (or 1-2 dried ancho chilies, rehydrated; for that perfect Chili Lacquer kick).
Beef Broth: 4 cups (960ml) (braising liquid; or low-sodium chicken broth if that’s what’s in the pantry).
Bay Leaves: 2 (aromatic).
Fresh Thyme: 4 sprigs (earthy notes).
Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g), plus more to taste.
Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon (1g), freshly ground.
Carrots (for coins): 1 pound (450g), sliced into ½-inch (1.2 cm) coins (sweetness, color; or parsnips for a different root vegetable).

Premium/healthy versions:

Grass-fed short ribs offer richer flavor and enhanced nutrition. Organic carrots and tomatoes ensure peak freshness and robust taste. Low-sodium beef broth allows for precise seasoning control for healthier eating.

Simple swaps for allergies or diet needs:

Beef chuck roast offers a budget-friendly alternative. Adjust chili type or amount for a mild or extra spicy Chili Lacquer. Parsnips or potatoes can substitute Carrot Coins for variety.

Freshness tips:

Look for firm, vibrant carrots. Choose good quality, marbled short ribs from your local butcher. Pantry standbys like canned tomatoes are always reliable for your braised short rib recipe.

Easy Step-by-Step Method

1. Sear the Short Ribs:

Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven or a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season ribs well with salt and pepper. Sear ribs in batches, turning occasionally, until deeply golden on all sides, about 8-10 minutes per batch. This crucial step adds incredible depth to your braised short rib recipe.

2. Build the Flavor Base:

Remove ribs and set aside. Add remaining 1 Tbsp olive oil to the pot. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until aromatic, then add tomato paste and chilies, cooking for 2 minutes until deepened in color. This forms the core of your Tomato Chili Lacquer.

3. Deglaze & Add Liquids:

Pour in beef broth and canned diced tomatoes, scraping vigorously with a wooden spoon to loosen all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in bay leaves and fresh thyme sprigs. Return the seared short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid.

4. Braise to Perfection:

Cover the pot tightly. Cook using your preferred method until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully, clinging to the ribs.

Stovetop: Simmer gently over low heat, covered, for 3-4 hours. Check liquid level periodically.
Oven: Braise at 300°F (150°C), covered, for 3-4 hours.
Instant Pot: Pressure cook on high for 60-75 minutes, then allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes before opening.
Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours until easily shredded.

I often check the liquid level during longer braises; if it looks like it’s reducing too much, I’ll add another half cup of hot beef broth to keep the short ribs submerged.

5. Add Carrot Coins:

Stir in the fresh Carrot Coins during the last hour of stovetop or oven braising (or after pressure cooking for Instant Pot/slow cooker). Continue cooking until the carrots are tender-crisp and vibrant, about 45-60 minutes. Remove bay leaves and thyme stems before serving.

Inline troubleshooting for common mistakes:

Meat not tender? Braise longer! Low and slow cooking is absolutely essential for tender braised short rib results; don’t rush it.

Sauce too thin? Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes on medium heat to reduce and thicken.

Too spicy? A touch of honey or brown sugar can effectively balance the Chili Lacquer’s heat.

Best Moments to Use Your Braised Short Rib Recipe

Your braised short rib recipe Tomato Chili Lacquer With Carrot Coins is incredibly versatile, perfect for various occasions from weeknights to special gatherings. Its rich flavor develops over time, making it an excellent choice for planning ahead.

Quick dinners (if prepped ahead): Ideal for busy weeknights when you want minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
Weekly meal prep: Cook a large batch to enjoy delicious, high-protein meals all week long.
Cozy family dinners: The ultimate comfort food for a satisfying Sunday supper.
Entertaining: Impress guests with this sophisticated yet surprisingly easy dish.

Pairings

Creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or risotto.
Crusty bread for soaking up the amazing Tomato Chili Lacquer.
Simple green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
Drinks: I find a sparkling cider or unsweetened iced tea pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness.

Storage

Store cooled braised short ribs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Gently warm on the stovetop or in the oven until heated through; the flavors often deepen overnight!

Health & Lifestyle Payoff

Fuel your family with high-quality protein and iron from this braised short rib recipe. Packed with vitamins and minerals from the carrots and tomatoes, it supports overall wellness. This truly satisfying, hearty meal keeps you full longer, making it a great fit for balanced eating plans. Enjoy a rich, comforting, and family-approved dinner that feels indulgent but offers great nutritional value. This dish fits well into meal prep ideas, offers high-protein meals, and is naturally gluten-free. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking quick healthy dinners with big flavor.

Quick Hacks for Time & Budget

Planning ahead makes this braised short rib recipe even easier to enjoy. With a little foresight, you can significantly cut down on active cooking time.

Estimated prep/cook time: Prep: 25 minutes. Cook: 3-4 hours (stovetop/oven) or 60-75 minutes (Instant Pot).
Approximate cost per serving: $6-9, depending on short rib quality and seasonal sales.

Tricks for meal prep or batch cooking

Sear ribs and chop veggies the day before.
Cook the full braised short rib recipe ahead of time; it tastes even better the next day.
Portion and freeze leftovers for quick grab-and-go meals.

Ingredient Sourcing & Shopping Tips

Choosing quality ingredients elevates your braised short rib recipe to new heights. Prioritize freshness and good cuts for the best results.

Where to buy quality short ribs: Visit your local butcher for the best cuts, or check specialty grocery stores. Organic varieties are also available for premium ingredients.
Fresh vs. frozen vs. shelf-stable: Fresh short ribs offer superior flavor. Frozen is a good backup but ensure proper thawing. Fresh Carrot Coins are best, but quality frozen carrots can work in a pinch. Shelf-stable diced tomatoes and broth are reliable pantry staples.

Look for organic grocery delivery for high-quality produce, consider bulk orders of short ribs if you have freezer space, or check health food stores for specific diet-friendly ingredients to ensure a healthy meal.

Chef-Level Adjustments

Elevate your braised short rib recipe with these simple yet impactful adjustments, enhancing both flavor and texture for a truly memorable meal.

Flavor boosts for your braised short rib recipe

Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a touch of apple cider vinegar for extra tang to the Tomato Chili Lacquer.
Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs during braising.
A pinch of smoked paprika or cocoa powder for deeper notes.

Texture upgrades

For extra crispy Carrot Coins, roast them separately and add at the very end.
Skim fat from the braising liquid for a cleaner sauce.
Reduce the sauce further after removing the ribs for a thicker, more intense lacquer.

Allergy and family-friendly substitutions

This dish is naturally nut-free and dairy-free.
For a mild version, use mild paprika instead of chili powder in the Tomato Chili Lacquer.
Swap out Carrot Coins for sweet potato chunks or parsnips if desired.

FAQs

Q: Is this braised short rib recipe good for weekly meal prep?

Absolutely! This braised short rib recipe is fantastic for meal prep. The flavors deepen overnight, and it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for delicious quick healthy dinners throughout the week. I find that if you chill the entire pot of braised short rib recipe Tomato Chili Lacquer With Carrot Coins overnight, it’s much easier to skim off any excess fat from the top before reheating, leading to a cleaner sauce.

Q: What’s the healthiest alternative to short ribs for this dish?

For a leaner, high-protein alternative, swap short ribs for 2 pounds (900g) of boneless beef chuck roast, adjusting braising time as needed. You could also explore plant-based alternatives like meaty mushrooms or jackfruit for a vegetarian version.

Q: Can I order ingredients for this braised short rib recipe online?

Yes, many online grocery services offer fresh short ribs, carrots, and all the pantry staples needed for this braised short rib recipe Tomato Chili Lacquer With Carrot Coins. Look for reputable butchers or organic delivery services for quality meat and produce.

Q: Does this braised short rib recipe work for weight loss diets?

While short ribs are rich, a properly portioned braised short rib recipe can fit into a balanced weight loss plan. It’s high-protein, very satisfying, and packed with nutrients. Focus on lean cuts and pair with plenty of vegetables like Carrot Coins for a complete meal.

Q: How can I make the Tomato Chili Lacquer less spicy?

To reduce the heat in the Tomato Chili Lacquer, use milder chilies or reduce the amount specified. You can also add a touch of brown sugar or honey to balance the spice, creating a sweeter, more nuanced flavor.

Q: What’s the best way to ensure fall-off-the-bone short ribs?

The key to tender, fall-off-the-bone braised short ribs is low and slow cooking. Whether in the oven, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, ensure sufficient braising time at a gentle temperature. Don’t rush the process!

Conclusion

This braised short rib recipe with Tomato Chili Lacquer and Carrot Coins truly delivers on flavor, convenience, and hearty comfort. It’s a meal that nourishes both body and soul, proving that delicious home cooking can be easy and family-friendly. Go ahead, pin this recipe to your weekly meal plan, or print it out for a special family dinner soon!