Beef short ribs are the epitome of comfort food, boasting rich, deep flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Whether you’re slow-braising them in red wine or smoking them low and slow, short ribs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. But once you’ve mastered the art of cooking these succulent ribs, the next question inevitably arises: What To Serve With Beef Short Ribs to create a truly memorable meal?
This guide explores a variety of side dishes that perfectly complement the richness of beef short ribs, transforming your dinner into a balanced and satisfying culinary experience. From classic pairings to more adventurous options, you’ll find inspiration for your next short rib feast.
Braised Short Ribs
Classic & Comforting Sides
For a truly traditional and comforting meal, you can’t go wrong with classic side dishes that enhance the hearty nature of beef short ribs.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky smooth mashed potatoes are arguably the most popular pairing for braised short ribs, and for good reason. The creamy texture and mild flavor of the potatoes provide a perfect canvas for soaking up the flavorful braising liquid. Elevate your mashed potatoes by incorporating roasted garlic, brown butter, or cheese like Manchego, as in the original recipe’s manchego & brown butter whipped potatoes.
Roasted Root Vegetables: As seen in the original recipe, roasted root vegetables are another fantastic classic side. Carrots, turnips, beets, parsnips, and sweet potatoes all roast beautifully, offering a touch of sweetness and earthy notes that balance the richness of the beef. The slight caramelization from roasting also adds textural contrast.
Braised Short Ribs
Fresh & Vibrant Vegetable Sides
To cut through the richness of beef short ribs and add brightness to your plate, consider incorporating fresh and vibrant vegetable sides.
Green Beans with Almonds: Crisp-tender green beans, whether sautéed, roasted, or steamed, provide a welcome textural contrast. A simple preparation with toasted almonds and a squeeze of lemon juice adds flavor and freshness.
Asparagus with Parmesan: Roasted or grilled asparagus, lightly dressed with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of black pepper, offers a sophisticated and light counterpoint to the richness of the ribs.
Broccoli Rabe (Rapini): For a slightly bitter and more robust green vegetable, broccoli rabe is an excellent choice. Sautéed with garlic and chili flakes, it offers a flavorful and slightly bitter counterpoint that complements the savory beef.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a light and palate-cleansing element to the meal. Arugula or mixed greens with a lemon or balsamic vinaigrette work particularly well. Consider adding some shaved Parmesan or toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Hearty & Satisfying Starchy Sides
If you’re looking for sides that are just as hearty and satisfying as the short ribs themselves, explore these starchy options.
Creamy Polenta: Smooth and creamy polenta is another excellent base for braised short ribs. Its subtle corn flavor and comforting texture make it a delightful pairing, especially when topped with Parmesan cheese or herbs.
Risotto: For a more elegant and involved side dish, creamy risotto offers a luxurious complement to short ribs. Mushroom risotto, Parmesan risotto, or even a simple saffron risotto would be delicious choices.
Creamy Grits: Similar to polenta, creamy grits provide a comforting and slightly sweet base that pairs beautifully with rich braised meats. Cheese grits or grits with herbs would be particularly flavorful.
Crusty Bread: Don’t underestimate the power of good crusty bread. Sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta are perfect for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful braising sauce. Serve with a side of olive oil or butter for dipping.
Wine Pairing for Beef Short Ribs
To elevate your short rib dinner even further, consider the perfect wine pairing. Beef short ribs, especially braised versions, are rich and savory, calling for red wines with good structure and fruit.
Red Wine Recommendations:
- Cabernet Sauvignon: A classic pairing, Cabernet Sauvignon’s bold tannins and dark fruit flavors stand up beautifully to the richness of short ribs.
- Merlot: Merlot’s softer tannins and red fruit notes offer a slightly more approachable pairing, especially for those who prefer less assertive reds.
- Chianti Classico: The bright acidity and savory cherry notes of Chianti Classico cut through the richness of the beef, providing a balanced and flavorful pairing.
- Zinfandel: For a bolder, fruit-forward option, Zinfandel’s jammy fruit and spice notes can complement the savory richness of short ribs, especially smoked or BBQ versions.
Braised Short Ribs
Creating Your Perfect Short Rib Meal
Ultimately, the best side dishes for beef short ribs depend on your personal preferences and the overall feel you want to create for your meal. Whether you opt for classic mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables or explore more vibrant and fresh pairings, the key is to choose sides that complement the richness of the beef and create a balanced and satisfying dining experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own favorite combinations!
