If you’re searching for a hearty and delicious meal, look no further. This Best Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making mouth-watering beef short ribs, flanken style, with a rich and savory bean side. We’ll also provide some side ideas to complete your meal.

Ingredients

To prepare this scrumptious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Beef Short Ribs:

• 2 lbs beef short ribs (flanken style)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Beans:

• 1 cup dried cannellini beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups water (if using dried beans)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Beef Short Ribs

1. Season the Ribs: Start by seasoning the beef short ribs with salt and pepper. Ensure they are evenly coated for the best flavor.
2. Sear the Ribs: Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the short ribs and sear them on all sides until they are browned. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the wine reduces by half.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine.
6. Cook the Ribs: Return the short ribs to the pot, making sure they are submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

Preparing the Beans

1. Soak the Beans (if using dried beans): Place the dried beans in a large bowl and cover with water. Let them soak overnight. Drain and rinse before cooking.
2. Cook the Beans: In a large pot, add the soaked beans, chopped onion, garlic, water, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender. If using canned beans, simply sauté the onion and garlic in a pot, then add the beans and a little water to heat through.
3. Season the Beans: Once the beans are cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Putting It All Together

1. Serve the Ribs and Beans: Once the beef short ribs are tender, remove them from the pot and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the beans onto the platter as well, making sure to include some of the delicious cooking liquid from the ribs.
2. Garnish: For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or fresh herbs of your choice.

Side Ideas

To make this meal even more complete, consider adding some of these side dishes:

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs perfectly with beef short ribs. The rich and buttery potatoes complement the savory meat and beans.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add a healthy and colorful element to your meal. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in a 400°F oven for about 20-25 minutes.

Garlic Bread

A loaf of warm, garlic bread is an excellent addition to this dish. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the short ribs and beans.

Green Salad

A light and refreshing green salad can balance out the richness of the beef short ribs and beans. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette.

Cornbread

Cornbread offers a slightly sweet contrast to the savory beef and beans. You can make it from scratch or use a store-bought mix for convenience.

Tips for Success

1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality beef short ribs for the best flavor and texture.
2. Patience is Key: Slow cooking the ribs ensures they become tender and flavorful.
3. Taste and Adjust: Always taste your dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Plan Ahead: If you’re using dried beans, remember to soak them overnight for best results.

Conclusion

This Best Beef Short Ribs and Beans Recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. The combination of tender, flavorful beef and hearty beans creates a comforting and satisfying meal. Pair it with some delicious sides, and you have a complete dinner that everyone will love. Give it a try, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way!