Cranberry Braised Short Ribs – A Cozy, Elegant Comfort Dish
There’s something special about braised short ribs—the way they slowly cook to fall-off-the-bone tenderness, soaking up rich flavors along the way. But when you add cranberries to the mix, it becomes next-level comfort food with a gourmet twist.
I first made these Cranberry Braised Short Ribs on a chilly winter evening when I wanted something both elegant and cozy for a family gathering. The tangy-sweet cranberries, combined with red wine and balsamic vinegar, create a sauce that’s deeply flavorful, perfectly balancing the richness of the beef. Served with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, this dish is a true showstopper—perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just a night when you want to treat yourself.
If you’re a fan of wine-braised short ribs, love Dutch oven ribs, or simply want to try one of the best beef short rib recipes out there, this is the dish for you!
Prep and Cooking Details
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 3 hours | 4-6 servings |
Ingredients for My Cranberry Braised Short Ribs
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but highly recommended)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Pro Tips for Success
- Sear the ribs well – A deep brown crust adds layers of flavor to the braise.
- Use a Dutch oven – This ensures even cooking and keeps the moisture locked in.
- Don’t rush the braise – Low and slow is key for ultra-tender short ribs.
- Adjust sweetness to taste – If you prefer a tangier sauce, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
- Let the dish rest – After cooking, let the ribs sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Tongs for searing the ribs
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Ladle for serving
Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Pomegranate juice | Red wine | Adds a fruity, tart depth |
| Honey | Brown sugar | A lighter, floral sweetness |
| Fresh rosemary | Dried thyme | A more earthy, aromatic flavor |
| Boneless short ribs | Bone-in short ribs | Slightly faster cooking time |
Make-Ahead Tips
- Make the sauce a day ahead – This allows the flavors to develop even more.
- Refrigerate the cooked ribs overnight – The fat will solidify, making it easy to remove excess fat before reheating.
- Reheat gently – Simmer on the stovetop over low heat to keep the meat tender.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Cranberry Braised Short Ribs
Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs
Preheat your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Add a bit of oil and sear the ribs on all sides until they develop a deep brown crust, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Sauce
Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, add beef broth, cranberries, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and thyme. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Braise the Short Ribs
Return the seared short ribs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and transfer to a preheated 325°F (163°C) oven. Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Carefully remove the short ribs and spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
Suggested Drink Pairing
A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel pairs beautifully with the richness of the short ribs and the tangy cranberries.
Enjoy!
This Cranberry Braised Short Ribs recipe is the perfect mix of comfort and elegance. Let me know how it turns out! 🍷🥩
