Name: French Style Braised Short Ribs Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef short ribs, cut into 3-4 inch pieces; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 carrots, sliced; 3 stalks celery, sliced; 8 ounces mushrooms, quartered; 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 2 heads of garlic, with the tops removed; 3 cups beef broth; 2 cups dry red wine (or more broth); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional); 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme); 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary); 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 48 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that wraps you up in cozy, rich, and deeply satisfying flavors, look no further than this French Style Braised Short Ribs Recipe. It’s a timeless classic that transforms simple ingredients into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth feast with layers of savory depth. The combination of slow-braised beef, aromatic herbs, and a luscious wine-infused sauce creates an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself on a weekend. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a large red cooking pot filled with a rich beef stew. The stew has thick, dark brown chunks of beef layered with bright orange carrot pieces and pale celery bits in a deep brown sauce. There are whole heads of garlic cut horizontally showing their cloves, and a large bay leaf is nestled among the layers. The dish is topped with chopped fresh green herbs that add bright color. The pot rests on a wooden surface with some green herbs around it, and the inside rim of the pot shows signs of cooking use. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step to creating those unforgettable flavors in your French Style Braised Short Ribs Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role: from tenderizing the beef and building a rich base, to adding brightness and earthiness that round out this hearty dish.

2 pounds beef short ribs, cut into 3-4 inch pieces: The star of the dish, perfect for slow braising and soaking up all those wonderful flavors.
1 large onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and depth to the braising liquid.
3 carrots, sliced: Brings natural sweetness and color.
3 stalks celery, sliced: Adds a subtle, aromatic crunch and complexity.
8 ounces mushrooms, quartered: Contributes earthiness and texture.
4 cloves garlic, chopped: For that irresistible fragrant punch.
1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat to brighten the dish.
3 cups beef broth: The liquid base that keeps everything moist and flavorful.
2 cups dry red wine (or more broth): Essential for richness and that classic French braise tang.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the sauce with a hint of acidity and sweetness.
2 heads of garlic, with the tops removed: Roasting whole cloves keeps the flavor mellow and smooth.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle, sweet acidity to balance the dish.
2 bay leaves: Infuses the braise with delicate herbal notes.
1 teaspoon thyme, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme): Offers a floral, earthy contrast.
1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary): Provides a piney aroma that complements beef beautifully.
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped: Sprinkled at the end for a fresh, bright finish.

How to Make French Style Braised Short Ribs Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Brown the Short Ribs

Start by patting your short ribs dry, this helps achieve a beautiful brown crust during searing. Heat a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then sear the ribs in batches to avoid overcrowding. The rich caramelization you develop here adds unbeatable flavor to the final dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the short ribs are browned and set aside, add sliced onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms to the pot. Cook them gently until softened and golden, stirring occasionally. This base of caramelized veggies is where your braise begins building those deep, layered flavors.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Throw in the chopped garlic and tomato paste, cooking just a minute or two until fragrant. The tomato paste deepens the sauce’s color and adds that slight acidity which balances the richness of the meat.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine and Broth

Pour in the dry red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. Once the wine reduces slightly, add your beef broth, balsamic vinegar, and the two whole heads of garlic with tops removed, tucking them into the liquid.

Step 5: Season and Add Herbs

Place the short ribs back into the pot, nestling them into the liquid. Add bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a subtle kick. Bring everything to a simmer, then cover, reduce heat, and let it cook low and slow for around 3 hours, or until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.

Step 6: Finish the Braise

Once the meat is tender, remove the short ribs and vegetables with a slotted spoon. Skim any excess fat from the sauce, then simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken if desired. Finally, stir in fresh parsley for a burst of color and brightness.

How to Serve French Style Braised Short Ribs Recipe

The dish is presented in a white bowl filled with three main layers. The bottom layer is a creamy, pale yellow mashed texture spread evenly. On top of that, there is a rich, dark brown stew of chunks of meat and mixed vegetables including carrots, celery, and mushrooms, all covered in a glossy sauce. In the center, thick slices of dark, tender meat are placed, showing a juicy inside with a charred exterior, garnished with finely chopped green herbs. Some whole garlic cloves and a crispy vegetable chip rest on the side, adding texture contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with pieces of bread visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The magic in this French Style Braised Short Ribs Recipe is already bold, but finishing with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds the perfect fresh note and vibrant pop of green, making the dish look as incredible as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This dish loves good company, so think creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the luscious sauce, buttery polenta for an earthy twist, or crusty French bread perfect for sopping every last drop. Roasted root vegetables also make a wonderful, colorful match.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the short ribs stacked atop a bed of creamy polenta or alongside a heap of garlic mashed potatoes. A drizzle of the reduced braising liquid over the meat and garnish adds that professional touch that makes this dish feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover French Style Braised Short Ribs Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers taste even better on day two.

Freezing

This braised delight freezes wonderfully. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce. This helps preserve the tender texture and keeps the flavors rich and balanced — no microwave required!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

While short ribs are ideal due to their marbling and connective tissue that breaks down beautifully, you can use chuck roast as a substitute. It won’t have quite the same texture but will still result in a delicious braise.

Do I have to use red wine in the French Style Braised Short Ribs Recipe?

Red wine adds a signature depth and acidity, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute with additional beef broth and a splash of red wine vinegar to mimic the brightness.

How long does it take to cook the short ribs?

Plan on about 3 hours of slow cooking on low heat. This slow braise is key to achieving the fall-apart tenderness and rich flavor that define the dish.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making the short ribs a day ahead enhances the flavors. Just reheat gently when ready to serve and add fresh parsley right before plating.

What wine pairs well with French Style Braised Short Ribs Recipe?

A full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah complements the richness of the dish perfectly. A balanced wine with good acidity helps cut through the hearty flavors.

Final Thoughts

This French Style Braised Short Ribs Recipe captures everything we love about comfort food elevated to something truly special. From the tender meat to the rich, flavorful sauce, every bite is a celebration of careful cooking and quality ingredients. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover why it’s a kitchen favorite that brings warmth and joy to any table.