Serving Suggestions
I love to pair my bourbon-glazed short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes. The rich, silky texture of the potatoes complements the sauce beautifully, making each bite an indulgent experience. A side of garlicky sautéed green beans adds a wonderful crunch and freshness that balances the dish perfectly.
You can also serve these short ribs over a bed of polenta or rice, allowing the sauce to soak in and enhance every mouthful. The idea is to have something that can catch all that delicious glaze, so don’t hold back!
For a festive touch, I like to serve them with a fresh salad, such as a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The bright acidity cuts through the richness of the ribs and keeps the meal feeling light and balanced.
Variations & Customizations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You might want to switch up the glaze by adding some chili flakes if you’re in the mood for a little heat. A pinch of cinnamon or a splash of apple cider vinegar can also add a unique twist, enhancing the flavors even further.
If you prefer something a bit different than short ribs, you can use beef chuck roast instead. While it won’t have the same tender bite as short ribs, slow-cooking it in the bourbon glaze will still deliver a deliciously satisfying meal.
For a lighter version, you could substitute the beef with pork ribs or even a plant-based protein like jackfruit. Just remember to adjust the cooking times, as different meats will require different lengths of time to become tender.
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you happen to have leftovers (which I rarely do when I make this dish), store the ribs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen as they sit, making the leftovers just as delightful as the first meal!
You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a pot over medium-low heat.
When reheating, I like to add a splash of beef broth to the sauce to help revive its luscious consistency. Slowly warming them up will ensure that the meat remains tender, and you’ll be ready to indulge in those delicious flavors once more!
Conclusion
I hope you give this Ruth’s Chris-style bourbon-glazed short ribs recipe a try! It’s a labor of love that’s perfect for special occasions or even just a cozy night in. The combination of rich flavors and tender meat is sure to become a family favorite, just like it has in my home. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!