Name: Instant Pot Short Ribs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef short ribs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup red wine (optional); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or thyme)

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 500
Protein: 40 grams
Carbohydrates: 10 grams
Fat: 35 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 2 grams
Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This Instant Pot Short Ribs

If you’re on the lookout for an impressive yet effortless dish, Instant Pot short ribs are a fantastic choice. These hearty beef short ribs become incredibly tender and flavorful after cooking under pressure, making them perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. The combination of beef broth, red wine, and savory seasonings creates a rich sauce that elevates the ribs to a restaurant-quality meal. Best of all, this recipe requires minimal effort and yields mouthwatering results, turning a simple cut of meat into an unforgettable dish.

How to Make Instant Pot Short Ribs

Creating tender, flavorful short ribs in your Instant Pot is a breeze. By following these straightforward steps, you’ll be savoring delicious, fall-off-the-bone beef in no time. This recipe balances rich flavors with a simple cooking process, making it ideal for both seasoned chefs and beginners alike.

Ingredients:

2 pounds beef short ribs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or thyme)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, place the short ribs in the pot and brown them on all sides. This process takes about 5-7 minutes. Once nicely browned, remove the ribs from the pot and set them aside.

Step 2: Mixing

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant. This step creates a lovely base for your sauce.

Step 3: Cooking

Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if you’re using it), making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze. This helps lift all the flavorful bits stuck to the pot. Stir in the soy sauce, tomato paste, salt, and pepper, combining everything well.

Step 4: Finishing

Return the browned short ribs to the pot, ensuring they’re covered with the sauce. Lock the lid in place, set the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 45 minutes. Once the cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, followed by a quick release for any remaining pressure. Serve the short ribs hot, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor.

How to Serve Instant Pot Short Ribs

These delectable short ribs pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered corn, or a fresh side salad. The rich sauce is ideal for drizzling over your side dishes, enhancing every bite. Feel free to accompany the meal with crusty bread for dipping into the savory sauce; it makes for a comforting, hearty dinner that everyone will enjoy.

How to Store Instant Pot Short Ribs

Store leftover short ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the ribs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.

Expert Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Short Ribs

Browning is Key: Don’t rush the browning step! This develops a rich flavor that permeates the entire dish.
Choose Quality Ribs: Opt for well-marbled short ribs for the best tenderness and flavor.
Adjust Sauce to Preference: Feel free to modify the amount of soy sauce or add additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
Using Wine: If you prefer not to use red wine, simply replace it with additional beef broth.
Check the Thickness: If your sauce is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it using a cornstarch slurry.

Delicious Variations

BBQ Style: Add your favorite BBQ sauce to the pot for a tangy twist on short ribs.
Spicy Kick: Include a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during the cooking process for a fragrant flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen short ribs? Yes, you can cook frozen short ribs in the Instant Pot; just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of beef broth? Vegetable broth or chicken broth works well as an alternative, but the flavor of beef broth is best for this dish.
How do I know when the ribs are done? The ribs should be fork-tender and easily pull apart with minimal effort.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare and cook the short ribs in advance, then store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to serve.
What should I serve as a side dish? Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad complement the rich flavors of the short ribs perfectly.

Conclusion

Instant Pot short ribs are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender meat with rich, savory flavors, all achieved in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional methods. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for a special occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll love how quickly you can whip up this comforting favorite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—it’s bound to become a family favorite that will warm hearts and fill bellies!