French Onion Short Rib Stew: 7 Reasons to Savor It

When the temperatures drop and the chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of French Onion Short Rib Stew to warm you up from the inside out. This stew is a cozy hug in a bowl, packed with rich flavors that just get better as they meld together.

Picture tender short ribs swimming in a luscious broth, with the sweet notes of caramelized onions wafting through your kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, making it perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you taste this stew, you’ll want to make it a regular on your table during those cold nights!

Ingredients

To create this delicious French Onion Short Rib Stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef short ribs, cut into pieces
• 4 large onions, thinly sliced to enhance their sweetness
• 4 cloves garlic, minced for that savory kick
• 4 cups beef broth, the backbone of the stew’s flavor
• 1 cup red wine, adding richness and depth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme, for an earthy note
• 1 bay leaf, to infuse that wonderful aroma
• Salt and pepper to taste, because seasoning is key!
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for a bright garnish just before serving

How to Prepare French Onion Short Rib Stew

Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making this French Onion Short Rib Stew! It’s all about layering those flavors, so follow along and you’ll be rewarded with a cozy meal that screams comfort.

1. First things first, season your short ribs generously with salt and pepper. This is crucial for building that rich flavor throughout the stew!
2. Next, grab a large pot and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the short ribs to the pot. Sear them until they’re nicely browned on all sides, which should take about 8-10 minutes. This step locks in the juices and gives your stew a deep, meaty flavor.
3. Once browned, remove the ribs from the pot and set them aside. You’re going to love the smell wafting through your kitchen right about now!
4. Now, it’s time to add the sliced onions to that flavorful pot. Sauté them for about 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re beautifully caramelized. This is where the magic happens, so don’t rush it!
5. After the onions are golden and sweet, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma will be irresistible!
6. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release all those yummy bits stuck there. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to cook off some alcohol and intensify the flavor.
7. Now, return the short ribs to the pot, followed by the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for a hearty 3 hours. Yes, I know that’s a long time, but trust me, it’s worth every minute!
8. After 3 hours, remove the bay leaf, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, serve your stew garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

And there you have it! A bowl of warm, savory goodness that will make you feel right at home. Enjoy every spoonful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, deep flavors that develop beautifully over time
• Comforting and hearty—perfect for cold nights
• Simple preparation with minimal active cooking time
• Feeds a crowd, making it ideal for family gatherings
• Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!

Tips for Success

To make your French Onion Short Rib Stew truly shine, here are some tips I swear by:

• Choose the right cut: Go for bone-in short ribs if you can; they add extra flavor and richness to the stew. Trust me, it’s worth it!
• Caramelization is key: Don’t rush the onions! Take your time and let them caramelize slowly. This step is crucial for developing that sweet, rich flavor that makes the stew so irresistible.
• Season as you go: Taste your stew before serving and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can elevate the flavors to new heights!
• Let it rest: If you can, let the stew sit for a bit after cooking. It allows the flavors to meld even more, making it even more delicious!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to mix up your French Onion Short Rib Stew! Here are a few ideas to get those creative juices flowing:

• Herb swaps: Try adding fresh rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile that complements the beef beautifully.
• Vegetable additions: Toss in some carrots, celery, or even mushrooms for extra texture and flavor; they’ll add a nice earthiness to the stew.
• Spice it up: For a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or smoked paprika, which will add warmth and depth.
• Cheesy twist: Right before serving, melt some Gruyère or provolone cheese on top for that classic French onion soup vibe!

Experimenting is half the fun, so feel free to get creative with your ingredients!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your French Onion Short Rib Stew is super easy! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to leave a little space in the container, as it will expand when frozen.

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in short bursts to ensure it warms evenly. Enjoy that cozy flavor all over again!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?
Absolutely! While short ribs are perfect for their rich flavor and tenderness, you can also use chuck roast or brisket. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

How do I know when the stew is done cooking?
Your French Onion Short Rib Stew is ready when the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. This usually takes about 3 hours of simmering, but you can let it go a bit longer if you want those flavors to deepen even more!

Can I make this stew in advance?
Definitely! In fact, I recommend making it a day ahead. The flavors continue to develop overnight, and it tastes even better the next day. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with French Onion Short Rib Stew?
This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping, a fresh green salad, or even buttery mashed potatoes. You can’t go wrong with any of these delicious sides!

Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use certified gluten-free beef broth and red wine, this French Onion Short Rib Stew can be safely enjoyed by those following a gluten-free diet. Just be sure to check your labels!

Nutritional Information

When you’re enjoying a hearty bowl of French Onion Short Rib Stew, it’s nice to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s an estimated breakdown based on typical values:

• Calories: 480 per serving
• Fat: 30g, with 12g saturated fat
• Protein: 35g, giving you a satisfying boost
• Carbohydrates: 20g, including 2g of fiber
• Sodium: 800mg, so adjust if you’re watching your intake!

Remember, this is just an estimate, and your actual numbers may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. Enjoy your comforting stew, knowing it’s packed with flavor and goodness!

What to Serve with French Onion Short Rib Stew

Looking to elevate your dining experience with your French Onion Short Rib Stew? I’ve got you covered! This stew pairs beautifully with crusty, rustic bread that’s perfect for dipping into the rich broth—don’t forget to soak up every last drop! A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the stew’s heartiness. And if you’re in the mood for something extra comforting, buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta are fantastic options to serve on the side. Trust me, these accompaniments will take your meal to the next level!

French Onion Sausage Rolls are a great appetizer to serve alongside this stew.

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