Cider-Braised Short Ribs

Published: August 27, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful dish offers an easy preparation method that anyone can master
The flavor profile is a mouthwatering blend of savory and sweet notes, ensuring satisfaction in every bite
With its inviting presentation, these ribs will impress guests and family alike
Versatile enough to accompany various sides, they are perfect for any occasion

I once served cider-braised short ribs at a family reunion, and let’s just say my aunt still talks about it! Everyone loved them so much that they demanded the secret recipe, like I could ever keep something this good under wraps.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Short Ribs: Look for well-marbled ribs; they’ll yield tender results after braising.
Apple Cider: Choose a quality cider for the best flavor; avoid overly sweet varieties.
Onions: Use yellow onions for their sweetness; they’ll caramelize beautifully during cooking.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add color and sweetness; cut them into chunky pieces for better texture.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic intensifies the flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic gem.
Thyme: Fresh thyme brings an earthy depth; dried thyme works as a substitute if needed.
Beef Stock: Opt for low-sodium beef stock to control salt levels while enhancing flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other ingredients’ flavors.
Olive Oil: Use good-quality olive oil for browning the meat and vegetables.
Bay Leaves: Add one or two bay leaves during braising for an aromatic infusion.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your beautiful ingredients. Chop your onions and carrots into bite-sized pieces, mince some garlic, and set everything aside like you’re prepping for a cooking show.

Sear the Short Ribs: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season your short ribs generously with salt and pepper before adding them to the pot. Sear each side until golden brown, this should take about 3-4 minutes per side.

Add Aromatics and Deglaze: Once browned, remove the ribs from the pot. Toss in onions, carrots, and garlic into the same pot. Stir until fragrant, about 2 minutes, then deglaze with apple cider, scraping up any tasty bits stuck on the bottom.

Return Ribs & Add Stock: Return those glorious short ribs to the pot along with beef stock and bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low.

Braise Until Tender: Cover the pot tightly and let it simmer gently on low heat for 2-3 hours. Your kitchen should start smelling heavenly as those flavors meld together!

Serve & Enjoy!: Once tender, remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up all that delicious sauce.

This recipe not only elevates any mealtime but also provides an opportunity to gather around the table with laughter and love, because food is best enjoyed together!

You Must Know

Cider-Braised Short Ribs offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
The slow cooking process allows the meat to become tender and infused with a rich aroma that fills your kitchen
Pair it with mashed potatoes for a cozy meal everyone will love

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the short ribs for a rich crust, then braise them in cider on low heat until tender. This method enhances flavor and texture, ensuring every bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the cider for beer or add herbs like thyme and rosemary for extra depth. A splash of apple cider vinegar can also brighten the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cider-Braised Short Ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve tenderness without drying them out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Perfecting Cider-Braised Short Ribs takes practice; avoid rushing the cooking process for tender results
Always let the meat rest before serving to lock in juices
Use a good quality cider for richer flavor; it makes all the difference!

Cooking these short ribs reminds me of family dinners where everyone would gather, and I could see their eyes light up with each bite. It’s those moments that make cooking worthwhile.