Cooking Beef Short Ribs Recipe Seasoned with Oxtail Seasoning: A Flavorful and Tender Delight
Beef short ribs seasoned with oxtail seasoning bring a unique twist to a classic dish, combining rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or preparing a comforting dinner, this recipe will leave your guests asking for more. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to prepare the perfect beef short ribs, seasoned with the bold and savory notes of oxtail seasoning. We’ll also dive into some cooking tips, variations, and answers to common questions about these two mouthwatering cuts of meat.
What are Beef Short Ribs?
Beef short ribs are one of the most flavorful cuts of meat, known for their tender texture and rich marbling. They come from the rib area of the cow, cut into short sections, usually with a bit of bone attached. Because of their deep flavor, short ribs are often slow-cooked or braised, allowing the meat to become tender and juicy as it absorbs all the flavors it’s cooked with.
Why Season with Oxtail Seasoning?
Oxtail seasoning is a bold and aromatic spice blend traditionally used to season oxtail cuts of meat. It typically contains ingredients like garlic, onion, thyme, paprika, and other savory spices. When you season your beef short ribs with oxtail seasoning, you’re giving them a deep, complex flavor profile that elevates the dish. The seasoning pairs wonderfully with the rich, beefy taste of short ribs, making them irresistible.
Ingredients for Cooking Beef Short Ribs with Oxtail Seasoning
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients to create a mouthwatering meal:
- 4-5 beef short ribs (bone-in, about 3-4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons oxtail seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but recommended for deeper flavor)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (balances the seasoning)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Oxtail Seasoning Ingredients (Homemade Version):
If you want to create your own oxtail seasoning, here’s a quick blend you can make at home:
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cuminting your beef short ribs dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick and ensure a nice sear later. Sprinkle both sides of the ribs generously with oxtail seasoning, and make sure to rub it in well to coat every nook and cranny. For an even more intense flavor, you can let the ribs sit for about 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
Rich and flavorful beef short ribs seasoned with oxtail seasoning, cooked to perfection for a hearty and satisfying meal. 🍖✨ Step 2: Sear the Ribs
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot (preferably a Dutch oven), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the short ribs, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear the ribs on all sides until they’re nicely browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step helps lock in the flavor and creates a rich crust on the meat. Remove the ribs from the pot and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. If needed, scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon – that’s all flavor! Add the tomato paste and stir to combine, letting it cook for another minute or so.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine and Broth
Next, pour in the red wine (if using), and allow it to cook down for 2-3 minutes. This helps to deglaze the pot, lifting all the caramelized bits stuck to the bottom. Add the beef broth, brown sugar, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir everything together, ensuring the sugar dissolves.
Step 5: Braise the Short Ribs
Return the seared short ribs to the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it braise for 2.5 to 3 hours. This slow cooking method allows the beef to become incredibly tender and absorb all the savory flavors from the seasoning and braising liquid.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
After the ribs have finished braising, carefully remove them from the pot and set them aside. If
additional oxtail seasoning if desired. Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, return the short ribs to the pot and let them simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Now your beef short ribs, seasoned with oxtail seasoning, are ready to be served! You can serve them over mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a bed of roasted vegetables. The rich, savory sauce will complement the tender meat beautifully. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an added touch of freshness.
Rich and flavorful beef short ribs seasoned with oxtail seasoning, cooked to perfection for a hearty and satisfying meal. 🍖✨ -
Tips for Perfect Cooking Beef Short Ribs Recipe Seasoned with Oxtail Seasoning
- Slow Cook for Maximum Tenderness: The key to perfect short ribs is low and slow cooking. Patience is your best friend here! The longer they cook, the more tender and flavorful the meat will be.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re unsure about the doneness of your short ribs, a meat thermometer can help. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of around 190-205°F for maximum tenderness.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made a day in advance, which allows the flavors to deepen and the meat to become even more tender. Simply store the cooked ribs and sauce in the fridge and reheat gently when ready to serve.
- Customizing the Flavor: If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the oxtail seasoning. Alternatively, try experimenting with additional herbs like rosemary or basil for a different flavor profile.
Can Oxtails and Short Ribs Be Cooked Together?
Yes, oxtails and short ribs can absolutely be cooked together. In fact, they complement each other quite well because both cuts are rich in flavor and require slow cooking to become tender. If you decide to cook them together, you can simply follow the same braising process, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure both cuts are equally tender. The oxtail’s collagen and fat will melt into the sauce, making it even richer and more flavorful.
Does Oxtail Taste Like Short Ribs?
While oxtail and short ribs both come from beef, they do have some differences in taste and texture. Oxtail has a slightly richer, fattier taste due to its high collagen content, which melts down during cooking, creating a silky and smooth texture. Short ribs, on the other hand, have a meaty flavor with a good balance of fat and lean meat. When cooked properly, both cuts are incredibly tender and flavorful, but oxtail tends to have a more gelatinous texture, while short ribs offer a bit more chew and substance.
What Does Oxtail Seasoning Have in It?
- Cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt
- Black pepper
These ingredients combine to create a rich, aromatic blend that complements the deep flavor of the oxtail or other cuts of beef like short ribs. The seasoning is perfect for braising or slow-cooking meats, as it helps infuse them with savory and earthy flavors. You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences, adding more heat with chili flakes or more herbs for an aromatic twist.
How Do You Prepare Short Ribs for Cooking?
Preparing short ribs for cooking is relatively simple, but a few steps can make a big difference in the final result:
- Trim Excess Fat: While short ribs are known for their marbling, there may be excess fat that you can trim away. This helps avoid an overly greasy dish.
- Season Well: Generously season the ribs with oxtail seasoning (or your preferred spice blend). Make sure the seasoning coats the meat evenly on all sides.
- Let it Rest: After seasoning, let the ribs rest for about 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the seasoning to adhere better and enhances the flavor.
- Sear Before Cooking: As mentioned earlier, searing the ribs in a hot pan before braising is essential. It locks in flavor and gives the ribs a rich, caramelized exterior that adds to the overall taste.
Conclusion: A Perfect Cooking Beef Short Ribs Recipe Seasoned with Oxtail Seasoning
Beef short ribs seasoned with oxtail seasoning offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, providing rich, deep flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Whether you’re making this dish for a family dinner or a special occasion, the slow-cooked method ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. By following the steps in this article, you’ll create a comforting, delicious meal that everyone will love.
Whether you serve these ribs over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish, the oxtail seasoning adds an extra layer of depth and warmth to the dish. Don’t forget to experiment with variations and add your own twist to this recipe. And next time you’re in the kitchen, consider cooking oxtails and short ribs together for a meal that’s truly unforgettable.
(FAQs) about Cooking Beef Short Ribs Recipe Seasoned with Oxtail Seasoning
Can Oxtails and Short Ribs Be Cooked Together?
Yes! Oxtails and short ribs can be cooked together, especially if you’re braising them or cooking them low and slow. They both have similar cooking requirements, and when cooked together, they’ll share their rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth textures.
Does Oxtail Taste Like Short Ribs?
Though both cuts are from beef, they have distinct flavors. Oxtail is richer and more gelatinous, offering a smooth, almost silky texture when cooked. Short ribs have a meaty flavor with a good balance of fat and lean meat. While they’re both delicious, they each have unique characteristics.
What Does Oxtail Seasoning Have in It?
Oxtail seasoning typically includes ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, cumin, coriander, and optional cayenne pepper. This blend enhances the natural flavors of beef, making it a perfect choice for braising or slow-cooking meats like oxtails and short ribs.
How Do You Prepare Short Ribs for Cooking?
To prepare short ribs for cooking, start by trimming any excess fat, seasoning the meat well, and letting it rest to absorb the spices. Sear the ribs on all sides to lock in flavor before braising or slow-cooking for maximum tenderness.
