Ah, Christmas—the time when kitchens transform into wonderlands of spices and warmth. If you’re anything like me, the joy of the holiday season can sometimes be overshadowed by the chaos of preparing a feast. But, fear not! These crockpot recipes are the cozy solution to your festive frenzy—turning dinner into a hands-off affair so you can savor the moments that truly matter.
Steps
- Begin by searing the short ribs in a large skillet until they are browned on all sides. This step is crucial as it creates flavorful bits at the bottom of the pan, which will enhance the gravy later.
- Transfer the browned short ribs to your slow cooker. In the same skillet, deglaze with balsamic vinegar, scraping up the browned bits to incorporate into the sauce.
- Add slow-cooked onions and any other desired seasonings to the slow cooker with the ribs. Pour the deglazed mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Set your slow cooker on low and allow the ribs to cook throughout the day, which will create a rich, savory gravy as the meat juices blend with the vinegar and onions.
- Towards the end of cooking, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with a small amount of water. Stir this into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
- If desired, add a small amount of butter to the gravy to give it a glossy finish. Serve the ribs with the gravy over your choice of starch, such as mashed potatoes, cheesy potato casserole, or rice pilaf.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds of bone-in beef short ribs
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of balsamic vinegar
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (cornstarch slurry)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of butter
FAQ
- Can I prepare Slow-Cooker Balsamic Short Ribs in advance for a holiday meal?
- Yes, Slow-Cooker Balsamic Short Ribs are an excellent choice for a holiday meal as they can be prepared in advance. You can start cooking them early in the day, allowing you to focus on other dishes and freeing up oven space for sides and desserts.
- Why should I sear the short ribs before slow cooking?
- Searing the short ribs before adding them to the slow cooker is important because it enhances the flavor. Browning the meat leaves flavorful bits at the bottom of the pan, which are then deglazed and incorporated into the delicious gravy, adding depth to the dish.
- What makes the gravy for the short ribs so special?
- The gravy is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, created from balsamic vinegar, slow-cooked onions, and the juices from the short ribs. Thickening it with a cornstarch slurry and possibly adding a knob of butter creates a glossy, rich sauce that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice.
- Are short ribs a cost-effective choice for a holiday centerpiece?
- Yes, short ribs are generally more affordable than other traditional holiday centerpieces like beef tenderloin. They offer a luxurious taste without the high cost, making them a budget-friendly yet impressive option for festive meals.
- How do I serve Slow-Cooker Balsamic Short Ribs as part of a Christmas feast?
- Slow-Cooker Balsamic Short Ribs can be the star of your Christmas meal, served with a side of mashed potatoes, cheesy potato casserole, or rice pilaf. The rich gravy enhances these sides, creating a satisfying and elegant holiday dish.
Tips
- Sear the Short Ribs First: While it might be tempting to skip this step, browning the short ribs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker is essential. This process creates flavorful bits at the bottom of the pan that enhance the gravy when deglazed.
- Thicken the Gravy: To achieve a luscious, thick gravy, stir in a cornstarch slurry at the end of cooking. For an extra touch of richness and gloss, you can also add a small amount of butter.
- Plan for Oven Space: Using a slow cooker for the main dish frees up your oven for side dishes and desserts, allowing you to prepare everything fresh without the stress of juggling oven space.
- Cost-Effective Centerpiece: Short ribs are a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive cuts like beef tenderloin, making them an economical yet impressive choice for a holiday meal.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Large Skillet
