How to Cook Perfect Dry Aged Short Ribs | Wilson Farm Meats

Wilson Farm Meats, your go-to local butcher and meat market in Elkhorn, WI, has been serving the community since the 1870s. With our rich history, it’s no wonder our award-winning pork and beef products have become a staple in Elkhorn kitchens. Raised locally at Wilson Prairie View Farms in nearby Walworth County, our beef stands out for its flavor and quality. And when it comes to special cuts like dry aged short ribs, Wilson Farm Meats should be your first stop. These premium ribs are the key to a meal that will have your guests talking for days. Let us walk you through our favorite, foolproof recipe to create tender, melt-in-your-mouth braised dry aged short ribs that are sure to impress.

Ready to dive into a mouthwatering dish? Here’s the full breakdown of everything you need to create the best braised dry aged short ribs.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs dry aged short ribs from Wilson Farm Meats
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups red wine (the deeper, the better—this is your flavor secret!)
• 4 cups beef broth (Pro tip: grab some from Wilson Farm Meats for the ultimate local touch)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 bay leaves

This recipe will take your dry aged short ribs to the next level with rich, layered flavors and an unbeatable tenderness.

Step 1: Preparing the Short Ribs

• Season the Ribs: Before you begin cooking, generously season all sides of the dry aged short ribs with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! This is where you lock in flavor.
• Heat the Oil: In a large Dutch oven (because braising deserves the right tool), heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
• Sear the Ribs: Brown the ribs in the hot oil, about 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step is crucial because that caramelized exterior seals in all the juices and flavor. Once browned, set the ribs aside.

Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables

• Sauté the Onions: In the same Dutch oven (don’t lose all those tasty browned bits!), toss in your chopped onions. Let them cook until they’re soft and translucent.
• Add Garlic and Vegetables: Next, add your minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Stir these aromatic veggies for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.

Step 3: Deglazing and Adding Liquid

• Add the Wine: Pour in the red wine, and let the pot sizzle! Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any crispy, caramelized bits from the bottom of the pot—this adds depth to your dish.
• Reduce the Wine: Let the wine simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This concentrates the flavors and forms the base of your delicious sauce.
• Add Broth and Tomato Paste: Stir in the beef broth and tomato paste. The broth adds richness, while the tomato paste gives a subtle sweetness and depth. Make sure everything is mixed well.

Step 4: Braising the Short Ribs

• Return the Ribs: Carefully place the seared short ribs back into the Dutch oven. Make sure they’re fully submerged in the broth and wine mixture.
• Add Herbs: Toss in the sprigs of fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves for an earthy, aromatic finish.
• Cover and Braise: Cover the Dutch oven and pop it into a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Let the magic happen for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender.

When it’s time to serve these perfectly braised dry aged short ribs, you’ll want some sides that complement their rich, savory flavor. Here are some ideas:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the classic pairing. They soak up all that delicious sauce from the ribs.
• Polenta: For a little Italian flair, serve the short ribs over soft, cheesy polenta. It’s the perfect contrast in textures.
• Roasted Vegetables: Keep it rustic with roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. Their natural sweetness plays off the ribs’ savory richness.

If you’ve never cooked with dry aged short ribs before, you’re in for a treat. Here’s why this cut of meat is so special:

Enhanced Flavor

Dry aging intensifies the natural flavors of the meat, giving it a richer, more robust taste. The dry aging process removes excess moisture, concentrating the beefy flavors. This means your dry aged short ribs will pack a punch with every bite.

Tender Texture

During the dry aging process, enzymes break down the muscle tissue, making the meat incredibly tender. When you braise dry aged short ribs, you’re left with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that can’t be beaten.

Versatility in the Kitchen

Not only are dry aged short ribs perfect for braising, but they’re also great for grilling or slow cooking. Their robust flavor holds up well to a variety of cooking methods, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

Beyond our dry aged short ribs, Wilson Farm Meats offers a wide range of beef products, all raised locally and known for their top-tier quality. Whether you’re looking for steaks, roasts, or ground beef, we’ve got you covered.

What’s Included in Our Beef Selection?

• Steaks: From ribeye to filet mignon, we have the perfect cut for your next BBQ or gourmet dinner.
• Ground Beef: Perfect for burgers, meatloaf, or tacos, our ground beef is flavorful and lean.
• Roasts and Ribs: Whether it’s a Sunday pot roast or BBQ ribs, our selection ensures every meal is a success.

Great Value and Convenience

Buying beef from Wilson Farm Meats isn’t just about quality; it’s also about value. When you purchase from us, you can buy in bulk, saving you time and money. Plus, with a freezer full of top-quality beef, you’re always ready to cook up something special.

When you choose Wilson Farm Meats, you’re not just getting premium beef—you’re supporting a local tradition. For over a century, we’ve been committed to providing the Elkhorn community with the best locally raised beef. Here’s why our customers keep coming back:

• Tradition of Excellence: Our family-run business has been perfecting the art of butchery for generations, and we’re proud to continue serving the community.
• Supporting Local Farmers: By purchasing from Wilson Farm Meats, you’re helping to support local farms like Wilson Prairie View Farms, contributing to the local economy and sustaining farming traditions.

Ready to take your cooking to the next level? Visit Wilson Farm Meats today to explore our selection of dry aged short ribs and other premium beef products. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, our high-quality meats will make every meal special.

Visit Wilson Farm Meats to shop for dry aged short ribs and other beef products in Elkhorn, WI. Elevate your meals with locally raised, premium beef that stands out in both flavor and quality. Taste the tradition of excellence with every bite from Wilson Farm Meats.