Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce

Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This recipe features tender, flavorful meat slow-cooked in a rich, aromatic sauce that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or crusty bread. Ideal for special occasions or cozy family dinners, this dish stands out with its deep flavors and satisfying textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef and lamb creates a savory depth that delights the palate.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, this recipe allows you to create a gourmet meal without complicated techniques.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this dish impresses every time.
• Versatile Side Pairings: Serve with your favorite sides like polenta, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad for balance.
• Make Ahead-Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce successfully, having the right tools is essential. Gathering these items will streamline your cooking experience and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution and perfect for braising meat for extended periods.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring all ingredients blend well.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a sturdy surface to prepare your ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Meat

• 2 lbs beef short ribs
• 2 lbs lamb shanks
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups dry red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by seasoning the beef short ribs and lamb shanks with salt and black pepper. Chop all vegetables—onion, garlic, carrots, and celery—and set them aside.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

In a heavy Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the short ribs and lamb shanks until browned on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Add tomato paste to the vegetables. Stir well before pouring in dry red wine and beef broth. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot as you mix.

Step 5: Add Herbs and Meat

Return the seared meat to the pot along with bay leaves, rosemary, and thyme. The liquid should cover most of the meat; add more broth if necessary.

Step 6: Braise in Oven

Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C). Let it cook for about 3 hours or until meats are tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once done cooking, remove from oven. Discard bay leaves and herb stems before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of color.

Enjoy your hearty Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce!

How to Serve Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce

Serving Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce can elevate any meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes perfectly complement the tender meat, soaking up the delicious sauce.

On a Bed of Polenta

• Serve the short ribs and lamb shanks over creamy polenta for a comforting and hearty option.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and sweetness, balancing the savory richness of the dish.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme brightens the plate and adds an aromatic touch to each serving.

How to Perfect Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce

Perfecting your Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is outstanding.

• Choose quality meat – Look for well-marbled short ribs and meaty lamb shanks for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Sear properly – Browning the meat before braising locks in flavors and creates a rich base for your sauce.
• Let it rest – After cooking, allow the meat to rest for about 15 minutes. This helps redistribute juices for a juicier bite.
• Use fresh herbs – Fresh rosemary and thyme brighten the dish, providing depth that dried herbs can’t achieve.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste the sauce before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed to bring out all flavors.
• Pair with wine – Choose a good quality dry red wine not only for cooking but also for serving alongside your meal.

Best Side Dishes for Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce

A hearty dish like Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce deserves equally delightful side dishes. These options will round out your meal beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for mopping up every drop of delicious sauce.
2. Steamed Asparagus – A light, crisp side that balances the richness of the meat.
3. Cauliflower Gratin – Creamy cheese-covered cauliflower adds a luxurious touch to your table.
4. Colcannon – This traditional Irish dish of mashed potatoes mixed with cabbage or kale is hearty and comforting.
5. Herbed Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice with herbs complements the robust flavors of the ribs and shanks.
6. Braised Greens – Collard greens or kale cooked low and slow add a nutritious element to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your meats with salt and pepper before cooking can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously for the best taste.
• Rushing the browning process: If you don’t brown the meat properly, you miss out on rich flavors. Take your time to achieve a deep brown crust for enhanced taste.
• Neglecting to deglaze the pan: After browning the meat, if you skip deglazing, you’ll lose essential flavor bits. Use red wine to scrape up those tasty morsels before adding other ingredients.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into your meat right after cooking can result in dryness. Let the dish rest for at least 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times matter! Ensure you follow the recipe closely for tender and juicy results, as both overcooking and undercooking can ruin your dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30-40 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer food to a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each round until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat slowly over medium-low heat in a saucepan. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce?

Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce is a comforting dish featuring tender meats simmered slowly in a rich red wine sauce infused with herbs.

How long does it take to cook Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks?

The cooking process typically takes about 3-4 hours, including preparation and cooking time. Slow cooking allows flavors to develop beautifully.

Can I use different herbs?

Absolutely! While rosemary and thyme are traditional choices, feel free to experiment with other herbs like sage or parsley according to your taste preferences.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread. These sides complement the rich sauce perfectly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks keep well and can be made ahead of time. They also taste even better after being refrigerated overnight as flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce is not only hearty but also versatile enough for any occasion. The rich flavors and tender meat make it an irresistible choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or changing up the herbs based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Experience the ultimate comfort food with Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Herb Sauce. This exquisite dish features tender cuts of beef and lamb, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, aromatic sauce infused with fresh herbs. Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread, this meal is perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. Each bite delivers a savory depth and satisfying texture that will leave your guests raving. With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, you can create a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs beef short ribs
• 2 lbs lamb shanks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups dry red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Season the beef short ribs and lamb shanks with salt and black pepper.
2. In a heavy Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the meat on all sides until browned, then set aside.
3. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened (5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in tomato paste, followed by red wine and beef broth; deglaze the pot.
5. Return the meat to the pot with bay leaves and herbs; ensure liquid covers most of the meat.
6. Cover and braise in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 3 hours or until tender.
7. Remove from oven, discard bay leaves and stems, then garnish with parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 180 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion (250g)
• Calories: 485
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 105mg