Delicious Cola Braised Short Ribs (inspired by The Bear)

Wow, this cola braised beef short ribs recipe is a keeper! Pressure-cooked to perfection, these beef short ribs are tender. Inspired by the hit show The Bear, this dish is magnificent, just like the show.

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Cola braised beef short ribs are a satisfying and comforting dinner for any day of the week. This boneless beef short ribs recipe is 10 out of 10. I love making it when guests come over - the pressure cooker does 80% of the work.

Inspired by other recipes, these Cola-braised beef short ribs go great with mashed potatoes, Roasted Parmesan Cauliflower, and crunchy Green Beans.

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Cola Braised Short Ribs Ingredients

Boneless beef short ribs - feel free to use bone-in beef short ribs
Salt and pepper to season well
Neutral oil (such as avocado oil)
Onion, diced
Carrots, diced
Celery stalks, diced
White wine
Coca Cola
Tomato puree
Thyme sprigs

Serve these Cola-braised beef short ribs with mashed potatoes.

See recipe card for quantities.

How to make cook boneless beef short ribs

sear the short ribs cola braised short ribs the bear

Sear the boneless beef short ribs on all sides.

coca cola braised short ribs recipe coca cola braised short ribs recipe

Remove the beef and set aside. Add the aromatics and saute for 2 minutes. Add the rest of the ingredients.

Add back the short ribs.

Pressure cook.

Step 1: Prepare the short ribs:

Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels.
Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the short ribs in the pressure cooker:

Using the saute mode, sear the short ribs on all sides until brown, working in batches if necessary.
Remove the ribs and set them aside.
Use a paper towel to get rid of excess oil.

Step 3: Saute the vegetables:

In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, and celery.
Saute for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze:

Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits.
Allow the wine to reduce by half.

Step 5: Add Cola and Thyme:

Pour in the can of Coca-Cola, stirring to combine.
Nestle the seared short ribs back into the pot.
Add thyme sprigs on top.
Pressure Cook for 45 minutes

Step 6: Reduce the braising liquid:

After 45 minutes, wait for the pressure cooker's natural release.
Remove the beef and the thyme sprigs.
Strain out the vegetables.
Turn on saute mode to reduce the sauce until it thickens and becomes a gravy. About 8 minutes.

Step 7: Serve with Mashed Potatoes:

While the ribs are cooking, prepare your mashed potatoes.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve:

Once the short ribs are done, discard the thyme sprigs.
Serve the Cola-braised short ribs over a bed of mashed potatoes.
Garnish with minced parsley for a fresh burst of flavor.
Enjoy!

Substitutions

Beef Short Ribs - I used boneless beef short ribs. You can use bone-in, chuck roast, or any tough cuts of beef.
Salt and Pepper - Seasoning blends like garlic powder, cloves garlic, freshly ground black pepper, onion powder, or a pre-made herb blend for added flavor.
Neutral Oil (such as avocado oil) - Canola oil, olive oil, vegetable oil, or grapeseed oil.
Onion - Shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
Carrots - Sweet potatoes, parsnips, bay leaves, or butternut squash for a similar hearty texture.
Celery - Fennel or bell peppers for a crisp texture.
White Wine - Chicken or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option, soy sauce, or apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
Tomato puree - Substitute with tomato paste or tomato sauce.
Coca-Cola - Root beer, ginger ale, or a Cola-flavored soda.
Thyme Sprigs - Dried thyme or rosemary if fresh is not available.

Equipment

Pressure Cooker - I used Our Place Dream Cooker. The Instant Pot works too.
Cutting board
Knife

How to reheat and store beef short ribs

Storing Cola-Braised Beef Short Ribs:

Allow the Cola-braised beef stock short ribs to cool to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing (Optional): For longer storage, consider freezing the short ribs in a large plate. Place them in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it's tightly sealed. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Cola-Braised Beef Short Ribs:

Stovetop Method:
- Place the ribs in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add a bit of braising liquid (broth or water) to prevent sticking.
- Stir occasionally and heat until the ribs are warmed through.
Microwave Method (Quick Option):
- Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish.
- Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until the desired temperature is reached.

Top tips for making boneless beef short ribs recipe

Sear on every side. Color means flavor. Do it in batches, do not overcrowd.

Don't have a pressure cooker. You can use a Dutch oven. Braise the short ribs for 2 hours.

Beef Short Ribs recipe -FAQs

Why do you braise with Coke?

Braising with Coke adds sweetness, acidity, and caramelization to the dish, enhancing flavor and tenderizing meat due to the soda’s sugar and carbonation, resulting in a unique and delicious taste.

Are beef braising ribs the same as short ribs?

Beef braising ribs and short ribs are not the same. Braising ribs may include various cuts, while short ribs specifically refer to a cut from the brisket, plate, or chuck areas, known for their rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked.

Can you overcook braised beef short ribs?

Yes, braised beef short ribs can be overcooked, resulting in dry and stringy meat. It’s crucial to carefully monitor cooking time to achieve a tender texture while avoiding excessive softening or drying of the meat.

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