Season your beef short ribs generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple yet essential step creates the foundation for mouthwatering flavor. 🧂
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the short ribs, browning each side until golden and caramelized. This seals in the juices, making the meat tender as it cooks. Set the seared ribs aside. 🔥
Using the same skillet, toss in the chopped onions and carrots. Stir them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and smell irresistible. Add garlic and cook for one extra minute. 🥕
Pour the beef broth and red wine into the skillet while scraping up all the browned bits at the bottom. Add tomato paste, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves, stirring everything together to combine the flavors. The mixture will already smell incredible! 🍷
Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes. This step ensures your gravy becomes smooth and luxurious.
Carefully transfer your gravy mixture into the slow cooker with the short ribs. Cover and set your cooker to low heat for 6-8 hours. Don’t rush it! Slow cooking helps the meat absorb all those rich, savory flavors. 🕒
Once the cooking is done, remove the short ribs carefully and keep them warm. If you’d like a smoother gravy, strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer until it thickens further. This extra step takes it over the top! 🍴
Plate the short ribs, pour the thickened gravy over them, and sprinkle with fresh parsley if you’d like. Pair with sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread, and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. 🥂