Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce

Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce is a dish that embodies comfort and sophistication. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this recipe combines tender beef short ribs and succulent lamb shanks, all enveloped in a tangy apple vinegar herb sauce. The slow braising process ensures the meat is infused with rich flavors, making every bite a delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to enjoy the cooking process without stress.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of apple vinegar and fresh herbs elevates the taste, creating a unique sauce that complements the meat perfectly.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive celebration, this recipe fits any dining scenario beautifully.
• Perfectly Tender Meat: Braising ensures that both short ribs and lamb shanks become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and herbs, this dish offers not just flavor but also nutritional benefits.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Having everything at hand will help you focus on creating this delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for even heat distribution during braising, ensuring the meat cooks evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, helping you mix flavors seamlessly.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, which is essential for preparing your ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

Meat

• 2 lbs beef short ribs
• 2 lbs lamb shanks

Vegetables & Seasoning

• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced

Liquids & Herbs

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups dry apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme

How to Make Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Meat

Start by heating olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef short ribs and lamb shanks with salt and black pepper. Add them to the pot once hot.
* Sear each side until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side).
* Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
* Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
* Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Deglaze with Apple Vinegar

Pour in the apple vinegar while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
* Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Add Broth and Herbs

Return the seared meat to the pot along with beef broth, bay leaves, rosemary, and thyme.
* Bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Braise the Meat

Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer gently for about 3 hours.
* Check occasionally; add water if necessary to keep liquid levels steady.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked through and tender, remove from heat. Discard bay leaves and herb stems before serving.
Enjoy your hearty Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce over mashed potatoes or polenta!

How to Serve Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce

Serving Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce offers a delightful experience for your guests. This dish is rich and savory, making it perfect for any special occasion or cozy dinner.

On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes complement the tender meat, soaking up the flavorful sauce.

With Roasted Vegetables

• A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and a healthy crunch to your plate.

Over Polenta

• Soft polenta serves as a wonderful base, providing a creamy texture that pairs nicely with the robust sauce.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread is ideal for sopping up the delicious sauce, enhancing every bite.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad can balance the richness of the dish, adding freshness and crunch.

Paired with Rice

• Fluffy rice absorbs the sauce beautifully, making it an excellent side that rounds out the meal.

How to Perfect Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce

To achieve the best results when making Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Selecting fresh beef short ribs and lamb shanks will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your dish.

• Sear Properly: Browning the meat before braising creates depth of flavor and improves overall taste.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme impart aromatic qualities that elevate the dish; dried herbs simply won’t provide the same impact.

• Low and Slow Cooking: Allowing ample time for braising ensures that the meat becomes tender and infused with flavor from the sauce.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving; feel free to adjust salt or pepper levels to enhance flavors according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they perfectly absorb the rich sauce.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts add a delicious crispy texture that contrasts well with the tender meat.

3. Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa seasoned with herbs provides a wholesome and nutritious side option.

4. Buttered Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings an enjoyable pop of sweetness to balance out savory flavors.

5. Creamed Spinach: This indulgent side adds a creamy element, enhancing richness without overpowering.

6. Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus offers a bright flavor that complements hearty meats beautifully.

7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweetened, these potatoes provide a delightful contrast to savory dishes.

8. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with fresh vegetables provides a refreshing counterpoint to rich meats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning your meat properly can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you season the beef and lamb generously with salt and pepper before browning.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much meat at once can cause steaming rather than browning. Brown the short ribs and lamb shanks in batches for even cooking.
• Skipping aromatics: Neglecting to include onions, garlic, and herbs will result in a less flavorful sauce. Always include these key ingredients for depth and aroma.
• Rushing the cooking process: Braising requires time for flavors to develop. Don’t rush; low and slow is key for tender meat.
• Not deglazing: Failing to deglaze the pan after browning can mean missing out on rich flavors. Use broth or apple vinegar to scrape up those tasty bits from the bottom of the pan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce

• Freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power for even heating. Heat in intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring often to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions regarding Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce.

How long does it take to cook Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks?

Cooking typically takes about 2-3 hours, allowing enough time for the meat to become tender and absorb the sauce flavors.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe uses beef short ribs and lamb shanks, you can substitute with other meats like turkey or chicken if desired.

What side dishes pair well with Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce?

Serve with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce is not only hearty but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or herbs based on your taste preferences. Enjoy crafting this comforting dish that is sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the comforting elegance of Braised Short Ribs & Lamb Shanks in apple vinegar Herb Sauce. This recipe masterfully blends tender beef short ribs and succulent lamb shanks, slow-cooked to perfection in a tangy herb-infused sauce. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, this dish showcases rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth meat that will impress any guest. With its easy preparation and versatile serving options, you can enjoy this gourmet comfort food without stress.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs beef short ribs
• 2 lbs lamb shanks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cups apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season beef short ribs and lamb shanks with salt and black pepper. Sear until browned on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in tomato paste for another minute.
3. Deglaze with apple vinegar by scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot; simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
4. Return seared meat to the pot with beef broth, bay leaves, rosemary, and thyme; bring to a gentle boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 3 hours until meat is tender.
6. Remove bay leaves before serving. Enjoy over mashed potatoes or polenta.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 180 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 37g
• Cholesterol: 100mg