Indulging in Balsamic Bourbon Short Ribs is like giving your taste buds a warm hug wrapped in rich, savory goodness. Imagine tender beef ribs bathed in a luscious sauce that combines the robust flavors of bourbon and the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar, creating a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. dill pickle focaccia savory butternut squash tart The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your neighbors knocking at your door, wondering if you’re hosting the next neighborhood barbecue.
Every time I prepare these short ribs, I’m reminded of that one family gathering where my cousin mistook my cooking for a restaurant meal. He practically begged for the recipe, claiming that these ribs could solve world peace. one pot cheeseburger macaroni Well, I can’t promise that, but they definitely make any dinner feel like a special occasion, whether it’s a cozy Sunday supper or an extravagant holiday feast. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe offers an effortless way to impress your guests with minimal effort
- The complex flavor profile of bourbon and balsamic gives it a gourmet touch
- Visually stunning with deep caramel hues, it makes for a great centerpiece on any dining table
- Perfect for entertaining or enjoying a cozy night in with loved ones
Sharing these Balsamic Bourbon Short Ribs at our family BBQ had everyone clamoring for seconds and third helpings! turkey Rachel sandwich.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Beef Short Ribs: Look for well-marbled ribs; the fat ensures they stay juicy and flavorful during cooking.
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Balsamic Vinegar: Choose high-quality balsamic vinegar for optimal sweetness and depth.
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Bourbon: Use your favorite bourbon; it adds warmth and complexity to the sauce.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic intensity; avoid pre-minced for best results.
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Onions: Sweet yellow onions work beautifully; they caramelize nicely when cooked down.
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Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to better control the seasoning of the dish.
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Fresh Thyme: Adds an earthy flavor; fresh is best, but dried thyme will do in a pinch.
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Sugar or Honey: Balances the acidity of balsamic vinegar; adjust based on your taste preference. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare for culinary greatness as we dive into making these mouthwatering Balsamic Bourbon Short Ribs.
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all ingredients on your counter. Chop garlic and onions finely to release their flavors while you cook.
Sear the Ribs: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides—about 3-4 minutes per side—creating that delightful crust we love.
Sauté Aromatics: Remove ribs and toss in chopped onions and garlic into the same skillet. Cook until onions are translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes—then scrape up those delicious brown bits from the bottom.
Create the Sauce: Add balsamic vinegar, bourbon, sugar or honey, beef broth, salt, pepper, and thyme to the onion mixture. Stir well until everything combines beautifully—this is where flavor magic happens.
Simmer Away!: Return short ribs to the pot, ensuring they’re nestled snugly in that divine sauce. Cover tightly and simmer on low heat for about 2-3 hours until meat is fork-tender.
Serve & Enjoy!: Once done, remove from heat and let them rest briefly before serving. These short ribs are perfect over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside roasted veggies—your choice! For more inspiration, check out this crispy potato pancakes recipe.
Now go ahead—dig in! You’ve earned it after all that hard work!
You Must Know
- Balsamic Bourbon Short Ribs are not just a meal; they create moments
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone wonder what’s cooking
- Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in, these ribs will elevate any dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the short ribs first for a deep flavor, then simmer them low and slow to achieve tender perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap bourbon with red wine or add veggies like carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to keep them juicy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality bourbon; it makes a noticeable difference in flavor
- Always let the meat rest before cutting to retain juices
- Don’t skip searing; it builds essential depth in taste
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my first attempt at cooking for friends; they couldn’t stop raving about the flavors!
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of meat for Balsamic Bourbon Short Ribs?
Yes, chuck roast works well but may need different cooking times.
What can I serve with Balsamic Bourbon Short Ribs?
Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables are perfect sides to complement the dish.
How long can I store leftovers of Balsamic Bourbon Short Ribs?
Leftovers can be stored for up to three days in the fridge without losing quality.

Balsamic Bourbon Short Ribs
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- Author: Hellen
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Experience a flavor explosion with our Balsamic Bourbon Short Ribs. These tender, succulent beef ribs are simmered in a rich sauce that perfectly balances the sweetness of balsamic vinegar and the warmth of bourbon. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table!
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup bourbon
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium yellow onions, chopped
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Gather and prep all ingredients by chopping garlic and onions.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides (about 3-4 minutes each side). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onions until translucent (approximately 5 minutes). Scrape up any browned bits.
- Add balsamic vinegar, bourbon, sugar or honey, beef broth, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir until combined.
- Return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are covered in the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours until fork-tender.
- Let rest briefly before serving. Enjoy over mashed potatoes or with roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib (about 170g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg