Description
Rich and flavorful smoked porter braised Cajun short ribs that become more delicious as they sit, perfect for make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 1/2 lbs (1.13 kg) short ribs
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 4 tbsp (60 ml) vegetable oil, divided
- 1 large yellow onion, coarsely chopped
- 2 carrots, coarsely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, coarsely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 cup (240 ml) smoked porter or substitute with Rauchbier or dry stout like Guinness
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef stock
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels. Season generously with the Cajun seasoning, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Heat 2 tbsp of the vegetable oil over medium heat in a heavy pot, such as a large saucepan or Dutch oven, with a lid. Once the oil is hot, add the short ribs and brown them on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the ribs and set aside.
- Add the remaining 2 tbsp of oil to the pot. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and thyme sprigs, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the smoked porter, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Return the short ribs to the pot. Add the beef stock, ensuring the ribs are mostly submerged. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C). Braise for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove the pot from the oven. Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the liquid. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- This dish can be prepared a day in advance and reheated in a crock pot, making it ideal for parties.
- If you can’t find smoked porter, substitute with Rauchbier or a dry stout like Guinness.
- Make your own Cajun seasoning if needed using the provided spice mix.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 50 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 35 grams
- Cholesterol: 120 mg