Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is beloved for her hearty, flavorful recipes that bring families together around the table. Among her many culinary triumphs, her short ribs recipe stands out as a true embodiment of comfort food. If you’re looking to create a dish that’s both impressive and deeply satisfying, look no further than these braised short ribs, Pioneer Woman style. This recipe elevates the classic dish with a secret ingredient that takes it to the next level: pancetta.
Why Pioneer Woman’s Short Ribs are a Must-Try
What makes the Pioneer Woman’s short ribs recipe so special? It’s the combination of simple, rustic flavors with a touch of Italian flair. While many braised short rib recipes rely on bacon for a smoky, salty depth, Ree Drummond ingeniously incorporates pancetta. This Italian cured pork belly adds a richer, more complex saltiness that elevates the entire dish. Pancetta melts into the braising liquid, infusing the beef and vegetables with an unparalleled savory richness.
Beyond the pancetta, this recipe is wonderfully straightforward. It uses familiar ingredients and techniques, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. The result is incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs bathed in a luscious, wine-infused sauce. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Inspired Short Ribs
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable short ribs:
- 8 bone-in beef short ribs: Opt for bone-in short ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season the ribs generously.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: For dredging the ribs and creating a beautiful sear.
- 3 oz diced pancetta: The star ingredient that adds unique flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the ribs and sautéing vegetables.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Forms the aromatic base of the braising liquid.
- 3 carrots, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 shallots, peeled and finely minced: Milder than onions, adding a delicate complexity.
- 2 cups dry red or white wine: Red wine lends a richer flavor, while white wine offers a lighter profile – choose your preference!
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth: Provides the liquid for braising and adds savory notes.
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme: Earthy and aromatic, complements the beef beautifully.
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary: Piney and fragrant, enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Guide to Braising Short Ribs like The Pioneer Woman
Follow these simple steps to create short ribs that will rival the Pioneer Woman’s own:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the carrots and onion. Mince the shallots and garlic. Having all your vegetables prepped in advance makes the cooking process smoother.
Diced carrots for short ribs -
Season and Dredge the Short Ribs: Generously season the short ribs on all sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Dredge them in all-purpose flour, ensuring each rib is evenly coated. This flour coating will help create a beautiful crust when searing and slightly thicken the braising sauce.
Seasoning short ribs with salt and pepper -
Crisp the Pancetta: In a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until it is completely crispy and has rendered its fat. Remove the crispy pancetta from the pot and set aside. Leave the rendered pancetta fat in the pot – this flavorful fat is key to searing the short ribs.
Crispy pancetta in a Dutch oven -
Sear the Short Ribs: Add olive oil to the pot with the pancetta fat and increase the heat to high. Sear the floured short ribs on all sides until they are nicely browned, about 45 seconds per side. Searing is crucial for developing deep, rich flavor in the short ribs. Remove the seared ribs from the pot and set aside.
Searing short ribs in a Dutch oven -
Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onions, carrots, and minced shallots to the pot. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant.
Sautéing onions, carrots, and shallots -
Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red or white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits (fond). Bring the wine to a boil and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly and the flavors to concentrate.
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Braise the Short Ribs: Add the beef or chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Return the seared short ribs to the pot. Add the thyme and rosemary sprigs, and sprinkle the reserved crispy pancetta over the top. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Cook for 2 hours.
Short ribs braising in the oven -
Lower the Heat and Continue Braising: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue to cook for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, or until the short ribs are fork-tender and practically falling off the bone. The braising time may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of your short ribs.
Fork tender short ribs -
Rest and Serve: Once the short ribs are tender, remove the pot from the oven. Let the short ribs rest in the braising liquid for at least 20 minutes with the lid on before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender and flavorful meat. Serve these incredible Pioneer Woman inspired short ribs over creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or your favorite side dish.
Short ribs served over mashed potatoes
Serving Suggestions for Short Ribs
Short ribs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Classic mashed potatoes are an ideal choice, as they soak up the rich braising sauce beautifully. Creamy polenta or risotto are also excellent options. For a lighter accompaniment, consider serving them with roasted root vegetables or a simple green salad.
To enhance the dining experience, consider pairing these short ribs with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, which will complement the richness of the beef and braising sauce.
Tips for Perfect Pioneer Woman Short Ribs
- Don’t skip the searing: Searing the short ribs is essential for developing deep, savory flavor. Make sure to get a good brown crust on all sides.
- Use bone-in short ribs: Bone-in short ribs are more flavorful and become incredibly tender during braising.
- Low and slow is key: Braising at a lower temperature for a longer time results in the most tender and flavorful short ribs.
- Rest before serving: Allowing the short ribs to rest in the braising liquid after cooking is crucial for juicy and tender meat.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste the braising liquid before adding the short ribs to the oven and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Enjoy creating this Pioneer Woman inspired short ribs recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and deliciousness to any meal.
