Short Ribs Ragu with Pappardelle is a dish that embodies the essence of Italian comfort food. This rich and hearty meal combines tender, slow-cooked short ribs with a flavorful tomato-based sauce, all served over wide, flat pappardelle pasta. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, this recipe promises to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
advertisement
- 3 pounds of bone-in beef short ribs
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of red wine
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound of pappardelle pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Preparation Steps
1. Preparing the Short Ribs
- Season the Short Ribs: Generously season the short ribs with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown the Short Ribs: Add the short ribs to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the short ribs and set aside.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables
- Sauté the Onion, Carrots, and Celery: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Deglazing and Building the Sauce
- Deglaze with Red Wine: Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Return the browned short ribs to the pot, submerging them in the sauce.
4. Slow Cooking
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the short ribs are fork-tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
5. Cooking the Pappardelle
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain and Reserve: Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water. Set the pasta aside and keep warm.
6. Shredding the Short Ribs
- Remove the Short Ribs: Carefully remove the short ribs from the pot and let them cool slightly. Discard the bones and shred the meat using two forks.
- Return Meat to Sauce: Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
7. Bringing It All Together
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pappardelle to the pot with the ragu, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
8. Serving the Dish
- Plate the Pasta: Divide the pappardelle and ragu among serving plates.
- Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for a burst of color and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Short Ribs Ragu With Pappardelle
Choosing the Right Short Ribs
- Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in short ribs add more flavor to the dish, but boneless short ribs can also be used.
- Marbling: Look for short ribs with good marbling, as the fat will render and add richness to the sauce.
Enhancing the Sauce
- Depth of Flavor: Use a good-quality red wine for deglazing, as it adds depth to the sauce.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
Cooking Techniques
- Searing: Searing the short ribs properly is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor in the ragu.
- Slow Cooking: Allowing the ragu to simmer slowly ensures the meat becomes tender and the flavors fully develop.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values for one serving of Short Ribs Ragu with Pappardelle (based on a recipe serving six people):
- Calories: 750
- Total Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 40g
Variations and Substitutions
Pasta Alternatives
- Tagliatelle: Tagliatelle is a good alternative to pappardelle and pairs well with the rich ragu.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Protein Alternatives
- Pork Ribs: Substitute beef short ribs with pork ribs for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian: Use hearty vegetables like eggplant and mushrooms to create a vegetarian ragu.
Dairy Alternatives
- Non-Dairy Butter: Use plant-based butter to sauté the vegetables for a dairy-free option.
- Vegan Parmesan: Substitute regular Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative.
Pairing Suggestions
Wine Pairings
- Red Wine: A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Barolo pairs well with the rich, hearty flavors of the ragu.
- Chianti: An Italian Chianti is a classic pairing that complements the tomato-based sauce.
Side Dishes
- Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich ragu.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storing and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Tips
- Stovetop: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Heat in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
advertisement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can transfer the seared short ribs and sautéed vegetables to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 8 hours.
What Can I Use Instead of Red Wine?
Beef broth with a tablespoon of red wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for red wine.
How Can I Make the Dish Spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini are great additions to this dish.
The History and Cultural Significance of Ragu
Ragu, a classic Italian sauce, has a rich history and cultural significance in Italian cuisine.
Historical Background
Ragu originated in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy and has been a staple in Italian cooking for centuries. The term “ragu” comes from the French word “ragout,” meaning a stew or sauce of meat.
Regional Variations
- Ragu alla Bolognese: The most famous variation, originating from Bologna, includes ground meat, tomatoes, and milk or cream.
- Neapolitan Ragu: A tomato-based sauce with large pieces of meat, often including sausage.
Cultural Significance
Ragu is more than just a sauce; it’s a symbol of family and tradition. It is often prepared for Sunday dinners and special occasions, where cooking is a labor of love.
Cooking Techniques for Short Ribs
Mastering different cooking techniques can enhance your short rib dishes.
Braising
Braising involves cooking the short ribs slowly in liquid, making them incredibly tender. Sear the meat first, then simmer in a flavorful broth or sauce for several hours.
Slow Cooking
Using a slow cooker allows for easy, hands-off cooking. Sear the short ribs and sauté the vegetables before transferring everything to the slow cooker.
Oven-Braising
Braising in the oven is another effective method. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C), cover the Dutch oven, and cook for 2.5 to 3 hours.
Health Benefits of Beef
Incorporating beef into your diet provides several health benefits.
High-Quality Protein
Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. A 3-ounce serving of beef provides about 22 grams of protein.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Beef contains several important vitamins and minerals, including:
- Iron: Vital for oxygen transport in the blood.
- Zinc: Supports immune system health and wound healing.
- Vitamin B12: Essential for red blood cell formation and neurological function.
Supports Heart Health
Choosing lean cuts of beef and cooking them healthily can be part of a heart-healthy diet.
Weight Management
High-protein foods like beef can help with weight management by promoting satiety and reducing overall calorie intake.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
When choosing beef, it’s important to consider sustainability and ethical practices.
Buy Local
Support local farmers who use sustainable practices. Local meat often has a smaller carbon footprint and is fresher.
Grass-Fed Beef
Look for grass-fed beef, which is typically more sustainable and humane than grain-fed beef.
Reducing Waste
Be mindful of portion sizes and store leftovers properly to reduce food waste. Use bones and trimmings to make broths and stocks.
Enhancing Your Cooking Skills
Improving your culinary skills can make a significant difference in the quality of your beef dishes.
Knife Skills
Good knife skills are essential for efficient and safe food preparation. Practice techniques like slicing, dicing, and chopping.
Seasoning
Understanding how to season properly can elevate your dishes. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and marinades.
Temperature Control
Using a meat thermometer ensures that your beef is cooked to the perfect temperature, enhancing flavor and safety.
Plating
Presentation matters. Learn some basic plating techniques to make your dishes visually appealing.
Short Ribs Ragu with Pappardelle is a dish that combines the best of Italian comfort food and rich, hearty flavors. The combination of tender, slow-cooked short ribs, flavorful tomato-based sauce, and wide pappardelle pasta creates a culinary experience that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Embark on this flavor adventure and enjoy the delicious journey. Buon appetito!