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Cider Braised Short Ribs with Caramelized Onions

Cider Braised Short Ribs with Caramelized Onions is a cozy, flavorful dish made with tender beef short ribs, apple cider, and golden caramelized onions. Perfect for fall and winter dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 –4 lbs bone-in beef short ribs
  • 2 large onions thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 cups apple cider not vinegar
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary or 1 tsp dried
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Pat short ribs dry and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a Dutch oven, sear ribs on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add sliced onions to the pot, cook slowly until golden and caramelized (20–25 minutes).
  4. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, and flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Pour in apple cider, scraping browned bits from the pot. Add beef broth, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
  6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to oven at 325°F (165°C).
  7. Braise for 2.5–3 hours, until ribs are tender and nearly falling off the bone.
  8. Remove herbs, adjust seasoning, and serve with mashed potatoes, polenta, or noodles.

Notes

  • Use bone-in short ribs for maximum flavor.
  • This dish is better the next day—make ahead for richer flavor.
  • Add carrots, parsnips, or apples for extra fall vibes.