- Beef short ribs (Prime cut for flavor and tenderness)
- Red wine (Full-bodied, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for depth of flavor)
- Carrots (Medium-sized, peeled and sliced diagonally for color contrast)
- Onions (Large, roughly chopped for better caramelization)
- Celery stalks (2-3 medium, trimmed and cut into pieces)
- Garlic cloves (4-5 cloves, minced to release more aromas)
- Bay leaves (2-3 large, fresh or dried, for a subtle herbal note)
- Allspice berries (A few whole, for warm, sweet spices)
- Black peppercorns (1 tsp, crushed to enhance flavor)
- Sugar (1 tbsp, optional, for a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity)
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp, for added depth and thickness in the sauce)
- Worcestershire sauce (1/4 cup, adds umami flavor and complexity)
- Beef broth (3 cups, homemade or store-bought to add richness)
- Corn starch (2 tbsp, for thickening the sauce)
- Vegetable oil (For initial searing of the beef short ribs)
- Salt (To taste, adjust according to preference)
Keywords: beef short ribs sauerbraten, red wine, carrots, onions, celery, garlic, bay leaves, allspice berries, black peppercorns, sugar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, corn starch, vegetable oil, salt
Steps
### Beef Short Ribs Sauerkraut (Sauerbraten) Recipe
#### Overview:
A traditional German dish, Sauerbraten is a hearty and flavorful meal that's perfect for cooler months. This recipe offers detailed steps to create a delicious beef short ribs sauerbraten, ensuring your meal stands out with its rich flavor profile.
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**Ingredients:**
- 1.5 lbs (680g) beef short ribs
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp juniper berries (optional)
- 1 lb sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
**Preparation:**
1. **Marinate the Beef:** Place the beef short ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a non-reactive container. Add sliced onions, minced garlic, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, and red wine vinegar to the bag or container. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
2. **Prep Sauerkraut:** Rinse the sauerkraut thoroughly under cold water. Drain well and set aside.
**Cooking:**
1. **Brown the Meat:** Remove the beef from the marinade (reserve the marinade), pat dry with paper towels, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. **Sear in a Pan:** Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. **Deglaze the Skillet:** Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
**Simmering:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** Place the seared short ribs back in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot. Add the reduced marinade and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
2. **Cook Slowly:** Cover and cook for about 3-4 hours on low heat, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The meat should be very tender; it can take up to 6 hours if you prefer your ribs to be extra tender.
**Finishing:**
1. **Thickening:** In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the pot while stirring continuously to thicken the sauce.
2. **Simmer Sauerkraut:** Add the sauerkraut and any remaining marinade juices from the short ribs. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
**Assembly:**
1. **Serve:** Once cooked, remove the beef short ribs and sauerkraut separately. Serve the sauerbraten with a side of sauerkraut, garnished with fresh parsley or juniper berries for an extra burst of flavor.
2. **Optional Garnish:** For added authenticity, you can serve this dish alongside boiled potatoes, pickled red cabbage, and a slice of rye bread.
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- Beef Short Ribs Sauerkraut
- Traditional German Cuisine
- Marinated Beef Short Ribs
- Slow Cooked Sauerbraten
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By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to create a delicious beef short ribs sauerbraten that is both comforting and full of flavor. Enjoy your cooking!