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–+ servings
Tender beef short ribs slow-cooked with carrots and onions in a rich gravy, perfect for slow cooker comforts.

Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

Enjoy hearty, comforting beef short ribs made with your slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want a delicious, low-effort meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Reducing liquid 1 hour
Total Time 9 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ribs
  • 3 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 4 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
For the Sauce
  • 2 large onions, cut into 1/2-inch wedges
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cups dry red wine or beef broth
  • 4 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons cold water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Large skillet
  • small saucepan
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. Sprinkle ribs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. In batches, brown ribs on all sides; transfer to a 4- or 5-qt. slow cooker. Add carrots, broth, thyme and bay leaf to ribs.
  2. Add onions to the same skillet; cook and stir over medium heat 8-9 minutes or until tender. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook and stir 1 minute longer. Stir in wine. Bring to a boil; cook 8-10 minutes or until liquid is reduced by half. Add to slow cooker.
  3. Cook, covered, on low 6-8 hours or until meat is tender.
  4. Remove ribs and vegetables; keep warm. Transfer cooking juices to a small saucepan; skim off fat. Discard thyme and bay leaf. Bring juices to a boil.
  5. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth; stir into cooking juices. Return to a boil; cook and stir 1-2 minutes or until thickened. If desired, sprinkle with additional salt and pepper. Serve with ribs and vegetables.

Notes

This recipe is designed for busy cooks who want a hearty meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you free to relax.

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