Cooking Beef Short Ribs: Best 5-Step Guide for Flavor

Cooking beef short ribs seasoned with oxtail seasoning is a surefire way to create a flavorful, fall-off-the-bone dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. This recipe combines the tender marbling of beef short ribs with the bold, aromatic spices of oxtail seasoning, making it a standout choice for both casual family dinners and formal occasions.

This guide provides everything you need to know about preparing beef short ribs seasoned with oxtail seasoning. From choosing the best cuts of meat to slow-cooking them to perfection, let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe.

What Makes Oxtail Seasoning Perfect for Cooking Beef Short Ribs?

A Flavorful Spice Blend That Complements Beef

Oxtail seasoning is a unique mix of spices, including allspice, thyme, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper, that enhances the natural richness of cooking beef short ribs. These bold spices create a deep, savory flavor profile, perfectly complementing the marbling of the meat. The smoky and earthy tones from paprika and thyme blend harmoniously, ensuring every bite is packed with rich, slow-cooked goodness.

Ideal for Slow-Cooked Dishes

The robust flavors of oxtail seasoning are ideal for slow-cooking beef short ribs, allowing the spices to deeply penetrate the meat. Whether you’re braising or using a slow cooker, the seasoning melds into the dish over time, creating layers of rich, mouthwatering flavor. This signature spice blend transforms beef short ribs into a gourmet meal that’s both hearty and unforgettable.

Selecting and Preparing the Ingredients for Cooking Beef Short Ribs

How to Choose the Best Short Ribs

When cooking beef short ribs, quality is key. Choosing the right cut ensures a flavorful and tender dish. Follow these expert tips:

Bone-In Ribs: These provide more flavor, as the bone enriches the dish during cooking.
Marbling: Look for well-marbled short ribs, as the fat ensures a juicy, tender texture.
Uniform Sizes: Choosing evenly sized ribs helps ensure consistent cooking times.

For the best results, buy your beef short ribs from a trusted butcher to guarantee freshness and premium quality.

Creating Your Own Oxtail Seasoning for Beef Short Ribs

While store-bought seasoning works, a homemade oxtail seasoning blend lets you customize flavors. Try this simple recipe to enhance your cooking beef short ribs experience:

2 teaspoons ground allspice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Mix these spices and store them in an airtight container for up to six months. Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level.

Additional Ingredients for Cooking Beef Short Ribs

To bring out the full flavor of your cooking beef short ribs, consider adding the following key ingredients:

Vegetables: Onions, carrots, celery – these add depth and sweetness.
Liquids: Beef stock or water for braising – helps keep the ribs moist and tender.
Aromatics: Garlic, bay leaves, fresh thyme – essential for enhancing the natural flavors of beef short ribs.
Extras: Tomato paste or Worcestershire sauce – for added richness and umami.

Using a combination of these ingredients ensures that your beef short ribs turn out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly tender every time.

Step-by-Step Cooking Beef Short Ribs Instructions

Step 1 – Prepping the Ribs

Before cooking beef short ribs, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Season generously with salt and a light dusting of oxtail seasoning.
Let the ribs sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate.

Step 2 – Marinating for Enhanced Flavor

For a deeper flavor, marinate the ribs overnight:

Rub the ribs thoroughly with oxtail seasoning to ensure the spices infuse the meat.
Place them in a resealable plastic bag or covered dish for best results.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight.

Step 3 – Searing the Ribs

To lock in juices before slow-cooking beef short ribs, follow these steps:

Heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
Sear the ribs on all sides until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Remove the ribs and set them aside.
Searing creates a rich, caramelized crust, enhancing both texture and taste.

Step 4 – Building the Braising Base

A good braising base is key for tender, fall-off-the-bone beef short ribs:

In the same pan, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Stir in tomato paste or Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost.
Deglaze the pan with red wine or beef stock, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.

Step 5 – Slow Cooking Beef Short Ribs (Braising Method)

For the best results, follow one of these slow-cooking methods:

Oven Braising:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
Return the ribs to the pan, nestling them among the vegetables.
Add enough liquid (beef stock or wine) to cover two-thirds of the ribs.
Toss in bay leaves and thyme for extra depth of flavor.
Cover the pan tightly and bake for 2.5–3 hours, until the ribs are fork-tender.

Slow Cooker Method:

Transfer the seared beef short ribs and vegetables to a slow cooker.
Add the braising liquid and aromatics.
Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

Step 6 – Finishing Touches After Cooking Beef Short Ribs

Once cooked, skim off excess fat from the surface of the liquid.
For a thicker sauce, transfer the liquid to a saucepan and simmer until reduced.

This process guarantees perfectly cooked beef short ribs that are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Tips for Perfect cooking Beef Short Ribs

Achieving Tenderness

Slow cooking is essential to breaking down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ensure the ribs are submerged in liquid to keep them moist throughout the cooking process.

Boosting the Flavor

Add Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for a savory depth.
For a hint of sweetness, stir in a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar.
Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your beef short ribs with these delicious sides:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or parsnips
Buttery polenta or grits
Crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce

Cooking beef short ribs with oxtail seasoning is an art that combines robust flavors with tender textures. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to create a meal that’s both hearty and gourmet. By slow-cooking the ribs with carefully selected spices, vegetables, and liquids, you can achieve a dish that’s sure to impress.

Serve these flavorful short ribs with your favorite side dishes for a complete dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to delight.

FAQ

Can I use boneless short ribs for this recipe?

Yes, but bone-in ribs provide extra flavor during cooking.

Can I cook this dish in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Sear the ribs, then cook on high pressure for 45–50 minutes with a natural pressure release.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooked short ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven with some braising liquid.

Can I freeze cooked short ribs?

Yes, they freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe container with some sauce to prevent drying out. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

What can I use instead of red wine?

Beef stock, chicken broth, or even grape juice can be used as a substitute for red wine.