Name: French Onion Beef Short: 10 Comforting Recipes to Savor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound beef short ribs; 4 large onions, thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slices of French bread; 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese

French Onion Beef Short is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to any table. This rich and comforting French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup combines tender, slow-simmered beef short ribs with deeply caramelized onions, infused with aromatic herbs and balsamic vinegar. Topped with toasted French bread and melted Swiss or Gruyère cheese, it’s a perfect hearty meal that balances robust flavors with a golden, cheesy crust. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Beef Short

This dish is not just about delightful flavors; it’s a culinary experience. Here are some reasons to love it:

Perfect for cozy dinners, especially during cold months.
Rich in flavor from caramelized onions and quality beef.
Easy to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
Versatile; you can also make variations like French onion beef stew or casserole.
Can be made in a slow cooker for added convenience.
Pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, enhancing your meal.

This classic French dish is as comforting as it is flavorful, making it a popular choice for family dinners.

Ingredients for French Onion Beef Short

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound beef short ribs
4 large onions, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices of French bread
1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese

How to Make French Onion Beef Short Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Season the beef short ribs with salt and pepper and sear them until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove ribs and set aside.
Step 2: In the same pot, add the thinly sliced onions and cook them, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 15–20 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic with the caramelized onions and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Return the seared short ribs to the pot. Add 6 cups of beef broth, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, 1 bay leaf, and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and falling off the bone.
Step 6: While the soup simmers, preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the 4 slices of French bread on a baking sheet and toast them lightly under the broiler until just golden, about 1-2 minutes per side.
Step 7: Once the ribs are tender, remove them from the pot, shred the meat, and discard the bones. Return the shredded beef to the soup and stir to combine.
Step 8: Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of the toasted French bread and sprinkle evenly with shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese.
Step 9: Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 10: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and serve the soup immediately.

Pro Tips for the Perfect French Onion Beef Short

Keep these in mind:

Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Use homemade beef broth for richer flavor.
For a vegetarian option, replace beef with mushrooms.
For a deeper flavor, add a splash of white wine during cooking.

Best Ways to Serve French Onion Beef Short

Here are a few ideas:

Serve with a side of crusty French bread for dipping.
Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Offer a selection of French onion beef sliders for a fun twist.

How to Store and Reheat French Onion Beef Short

To store your soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Beef Short

What’s the secret to perfect French Onion Beef Short?

The key lies in caramelizing the onions slowly to develop their natural sweetness, which enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Can I make French Onion Beef Short ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat on the stovetop when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Onion Beef Short?

Ensure you take your time when caramelizing the onions; rushing this step can lead to a less flavorful soup. Use quality beef for the best results.

Variations of French Onion Beef Short You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

French onion beef stew: Add potatoes and carrots for a hearty twist.
French onion beef casserole: Layer the soup with cheese and bread in a baking dish.
Slow cooker French onion beef: Prepare it in a slow cooker for an easy hands-off meal.

These variations highlight the versatility of this classic French dish, perfect for any occasion!

French Onion Beef Short: 10 Comforting Recipes to Savor - French Onion Beef Short - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Scared Scoo and Get Outta Here Good sections!

For more information on the benefits of slow cooking, visit Healthline.