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Succulent Short Ribs Slow-Cooked in Cola with Creamy Parmesan Risotto

A heartwarming dish featuring tender beef short ribs slow-cooked in cola, complemented by creamy parmesan risotto, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time3 hours
Total Time3 hours 30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Beef, comfort food, Risotto, Short Ribs, Slow Cooked
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 750kcal

Ingredients

For the Short Ribs

  • 2 lb beef short ribs Juicy and rich cuts for tenderness.
  • 2 cans cola Serves as a unique marinade.
  • 2 cups beef stock Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Adds earthy base flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Offers depth of flavor.
  • 2 tbsp butter Essential for richness.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste Brings everything together.
  • Oil for searing Necessary to lock in flavors.

For the Risotto

  • 1 cup arborio rice Creates creamy texture.
  • 4 cups warm chicken stock Provides liquid for risotto.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Brings nuttiness and creaminess.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  • Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef short ribs on all sides until browned (3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
  • In the same pot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant (approximately 5 minutes).

Cooking

  • Return the seared ribs to the pot. Pour cola and beef stock over the top, gently stir to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Cover the pot and transfer to the oven. Cook for 3 hours or until ribs are fork-tender.

Prepare Risotto

  • In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and add arborio rice. Toast for about 2 minutes.
  • Gradually ladle in warm chicken stock, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly for 20-25 minutes.
  • Once creamy and al dente, stir in Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serving

  • Scoop risotto onto each plate, top with a succulent short rib, and spoon over some braising liquid.

Notes

Marinate short ribs in cola overnight for bolder flavor. Experiment with different cheeses in the risotto. Non-alcoholic substitutes can mimic sweetness.