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Slow-Cooker Balsamic Short Ribs

Now here's a healthy beef short ribs recipe you can serve to company—even on a holiday. Serve with mashed celeriac or mashed potatoes, steamed green beans and a bold Italian red wine that has a touch of sweetness (think amarone or brunello).

Active Time
30 mins
Total Time
4 hrs 30 mins
Yield
Serves 6

How to Make It

1. Step
Sprinkle ribs with 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ribs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes total. Transfer to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
2. Step
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and onion to the pan; cook, stirring occasionally, until starting to brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, garlic and thyme; cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add vinegar and cook, scraping up any browned bits, until the liquid is mostly reduced, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker and add broth. Cover and cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 8 hours.
3. Step
Transfer the ribs to a serving platter. Transfer the liquid to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Whisk cornstarch and water in a small bowl and add to the boiling liquid. Cook, whisking, until thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Serve the ribs with the gravy and sprinkled with parsley, if desired.

Ingredients

  • 6 bone-in beef short ribs (about 3 1/4 pounds)
  • ¾ teaspoon salt, divided
  • ½ teaspoon ground pepper
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon Chopped fresh parsley

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