Easy Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe to Try

If you’re searching for a meal that combines rich, tender meat with satisfying beans, you’ve found the perfect fit with this Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe. This dish brings together slow-cooked beef short ribs that fall right off the bone, mingling with beans simmered to creamy perfection. It’s a comforting blend that delivers bold flavors and hearty textures, ideal for any occasion when you crave a satisfying, soul-warming meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Tender Meat: The slow-cooked short ribs become incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth.
• Hearty and Nutritious: Beans add fiber, protein, and a creamy texture to balance the meat beautifully.
• One-Pot Convenience: This recipe minimizes cleanup by combining ribs and beans in one pot or slow cooker.
• Perfect for Any Season: Warm and comforting in winter, yet versatile enough for warmer months too.
• Customizable Flavor Profiles: You can easily adjust spices and herbs to match your preferred taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe relies on simple yet flavorful ingredients, each adding essential taste, texture, and color to the dish. Using quality basics guarantees a hearty, satisfying result every time.

• Beef Short Ribs: Choose well-marbled ribs for tenderness and deep flavor after slow cooking.
• Dried or Canned Beans: Black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans all work wonderfully.
• Onions and Garlic: Essential aromatics that build the flavor base and add sweetness.
• Tomato Paste or Crushed Tomatoes: Adds acidity and richness to balance the beef’s savory profile.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the depth of flavor and keeps the meat moist.
• Smoked Paprika and Cumin: Warm spices that complement the meat and beans perfectly.
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme add an earthy note and fresh aroma to the dish.

Variations for Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tweak ingredients and flavors to suit various dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Spicy Twist: Add chili powder or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef ribs for hearty portobello mushrooms or seitan and keep the beans as the protein source.
• Different Beans: Use chickpeas or lentils in place of traditional beans for a unique texture and flavor.
• Slow Cooker Friendly: Adapt the recipe by cooking low and slow in a crockpot all day for convenience.
• Beer Braise: Replace some beef broth with a dark beer to add a rich malty dimension to the dish.

How to Make Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Short Ribs

Start by seasoning the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Heat a heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, adding a touch of oil. Brown the ribs on all sides until they develop a deep, caramelized crust. This step locks in flavor and creates a rich base.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Remove the ribs and set aside. In the same pot, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant. This builds flavor layers essential to the beans and sauce that will follow.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in tomato paste or crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, and any other preferred spices. Let the mixture cook for a few minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Beans, Broth, and Ribs

Add your chosen beans and pour in enough beef broth to cover the ingredients partially. Nestle the browned short ribs back into the pot. This mixture simmers low and slow, allowing flavors to meld and meat to tenderize.

Step 5: Slow Cook Until Tender

Cover and cook on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours on the stove or in the oven, or all day in a slow cooker. The ribs should become tender and nearly falling off the bone, with beans creamy and infused with savory richness.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or fresh herbs. Let the dish rest for a few minutes to develop depth, then serve warm.

Pro Tips for Making Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe

• Trim Excess Fat: Removing some fat from ribs prevents the dish from becoming greasy, keeping flavors balanced.
• Soak Dried Beans: If using dried beans, soak overnight for even cooking and to reduce cooking time.
• Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the meat adds a complex, caramelized flavor you can’t get otherwise.
• Use Low Heat: Slow simmering ensures ribs become tender without drying out the beans.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest off heat to allow flavors to settle and deepen.

How to Serve Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe

Garnishes

Add fresh parsley, chopped cilantro, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to bring freshness and a splash of color to each serving.

Side Dishes

Serve this hearty dish alongside creamy mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a crisp green salad to round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the short ribs on a bed of polenta or over steamed rice to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce, making each bite unforgettable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to deepen in the fridge.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months for easy future meals.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in ribs or boneless ribs?

Bone-in short ribs work best for flavor and texture, but boneless ribs can be used if preferred; adjust cooking time as needed.

Do I have to soak beans before cooking?

If using dried beans, soaking overnight is recommended to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility, but canned beans can be used directly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! It stores well and flavors often improve after sitting overnight, making it a perfect option for prepping ahead.

Can I make this recipe in an instant pot?

Yes, an Instant Pot can significantly reduce cooking time; use the pressure cook setting and adjust liquid amounts accordingly.

What sides pair best with Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad all complement the dish’s richness beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and rich with comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this hearty meal promises satisfaction with every tender, flavorful bite. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful blend of textures and tastes!

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