We love how Cabernet Sauvignon, that bold red wine from Bordeaux, France, adds depth and sophistication to simple ingredients. In our Cabernet recipe, we’re transforming everyday flavors into an elegant dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.
This isn’t just cooking; it’s about creating memorable meals that highlight Cabernet’s rich tannins and fruit notes. Join us as we share this easy-to-follow recipe that’ll impress your guests and elevate your culinary skills.
Ingredients
To craft our flavorful Cabernet Sauvignon recipe, we gather high-quality ingredients that highlight the wine’s bold tannins and fruit notes. Below, we’ve listed them in the order they’re used, with prep specifics for precision.
- Beef short ribs: 2 pounds (about 1 kg), trimmed of excess fat and cut into 2-inch pieces for even braising.
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped to build a savory base.
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced for aromatic depth that complements the wine.
- Carrots: 3 medium, peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds to add natural sweetness.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: 2 cups (480 ml) of a full-bodied variety, such as one from Bordeaux, to infuse rich flavors—select a bottle you’d enjoy drinking.
- Beef broth: 2 cups (480 ml), low-sodium, to create a balanced braising liquid.
- Fresh thyme: 4 sprigs, leaves stripped for fresh herbal notes.
- Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons, stirred in for a touch of acidity and umami.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, with about 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper as a starting point for seasoning.
| Ingredient | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beef short ribs | 300 | 25 | 0 | 22 |
| Onion | 44 | 1 | 10 | 0.1 |
| Cabernet Sauvignon | 200 | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| Total per serving | ~400 | ~20 | ~15 | ~18 |
Instructions
We gather our high-quality ingredients, including beef short ribs and Cabernet Sauvignon, to craft this elegant dish that highlights the wine’s bold tannins and fruit notes. Let’s walk through the steps to create a memorable meal that elevates your culinary skills.
Preparation
Before we start cooking, we prepare our ingredients to ensure everything integrates seamlessly for maximum flavor.
- Begin by patting dry 2 pounds of beef short ribs with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a perfect sear.
- Peel and finely chop 1 large onion and 4 cloves of garlic, releasing their pungent aroma that promises a savory base.
- Wash and slice 3 medium carrots into 1-inch pieces, aiming for even cuts to promote uniform cooking.
- Measure out 2 cups of Cabernet Sauvignon, selecting a high-quality bottle to infuse the dish with its rich, fruity essence.
- Strip the leaves from 4 sprigs of fresh thyme, and combine them with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 4 cups of beef broth, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper in a bowl for easy access.
Cooking
Now we move to the stovetop, where we build layers of flavor through careful, step-by-step cooking to let the Cabernet Sauvignon shine.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat; once hot, add the beef short ribs and sear them for 4-5 minutes per side until a golden crust forms, locking in juices and developing deep, caramelized flavors.
- Remove the ribs and set aside; in the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrots, sautéing for 5 minutes until they soften and release a sweet, aromatic fragrance that fills the kitchen.
- Stir in the tomato paste and fresh thyme, cooking for 1-2 minutes to enhance their earthy notes, then pour in the Cabernet Sauvignon and beef broth, scraping the pot’s bottom to deglaze and incorporate flavorful bits.
- Return the seared beef short ribs to the pot, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 2-2.5 hours, allowing the wine’s tannins to tenderize the meat and create a velvety sauce.
- After cooking, remove the ribs and skim any excess fat from the sauce; we thicken it by simmering uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until it reaches a rich, glossy consistency.
Serving
To present this dish, we focus on plating and pairings that complement the Cabernet Sauvignon‘s bold profile, making it ideal for special occasions.
- Arrange the tender beef short ribs on a platter, spooning the luscious wine-infused sauce over them to highlight the deep, fruity flavors that coat your palate.
- Pair with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to balance the richness, and serve alongside a glass of the same Cabernet Sauvignon we used, enhancing the meal’s elegant notes.
- For 4-6 servings, divide portions evenly, garnishing with extra fresh thyme for a pop of color and aroma that elevates the visual and sensory appeal.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Cabernet recipe and its potential to transform your kitchen. It pairs bold flavors with effortless elegance, making every meal special.
Let’s raise a glass to your next creation—it’s sure to delight and inspire us all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cabernet Sauvignon?
Cabernet Sauvignon is a bold red wine from Bordeaux, France, known for its rich tannins and fruit notes. It’s versatile in cooking, enhancing dishes with depth and elegance, making it ideal for pairing with meats and creating memorable meals for any occasion.
How can Cabernet Sauvignon enhance simple ingredients?
This wine adds complexity to dishes by infusing rich flavors and tannins, turning basic ingredients like beef and vegetables into elegant creations. It balances acidity and fruitiness, elevating the overall taste for cozy dinners or special events, while keeping preparation straightforward.
What ingredients are needed for this Cabernet Sauvignon recipe?
You’ll need beef short ribs, onion, garlic, carrots, Cabernet Sauvignon, beef broth, fresh thyme, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. These high-quality components contribute to a flavorful, nutritious dish, with specifics like drying the ribs and chopping veggies ensuring the best results.
How do I prepare and cook this recipe?
Start by drying and searing the beef short ribs, then sauté onions, garlic, and carrots. Add Cabernet Sauvignon, beef broth, thyme, tomato paste, salt, and pepper, and simmer until the sauce is rich and velvety. This easy process takes basic steps to create a dish for 4-6 people.
What are the nutritional benefits of the ingredients?
Ingredients like beef short ribs provide protein and iron, while carrots offer vitamins A and C for immune support. Garlic and onions add antioxidants, thyme brings flavor with minimal calories, and Cabernet Sauvignon contributes heart-healthy polyphenols, making the dish both tasty and balanced.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe serves 4-6 people, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s designed to be scalable, allowing you to adjust portions while maintaining the wine’s bold flavors and nutritional value for an impressive, shareable meal.
What are some good pairings for this dish?
Pair with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to complement the rich sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme for added flavor and presentation. For the full experience, enjoy with another glass of Cabernet Sauvignon to enhance the meal’s elegance on special occasions.