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Slow Cooker Balsamic Beef Short Ribs

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3–4 pounds beef short ribs
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Optional for garnish:
  • Chopped parsley
  • Extra balsamic drizzle

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Short Ribs : Pat short ribs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
  • Step 2: Sear the Short Ribs (Optional but Recommended) : Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer seared ribs to the slow cooker.
  • Step 3: Sauté Aromatics : In the same skillet, add onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant. Add balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, and brown sugar, stirring to combine.
  • Step 4: Assemble in Slow Cooker : Pour the balsamic sauce over the ribs in the slow cooker. Add thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Ensure ribs are mostly submerged in the liquid.
  • Step 5: Slow Cook : Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5–6 hours until meat is tender and falling off the bone.
  • Step 6: Serve : Remove ribs from slow cooker and place on a serving platter. Spoon sauce over ribs. Garnish with chopped parsley and optional balsamic drizzle.