Braised Beef Short Ribs

Parisian Flip

a note from us

This is one of those Date Nites we come back to again and again. And what you're seeing here is exactly how our weekly menus are shared.

Braised short ribs with creamy ricotta polenta is the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with warmth and makes time slow down. It’s cozy, comforting, and quietly elegant. Special without being fussy. The roasted broccoli brings a bright, toasty contrast, and the cocktail we’ve paired alongside it is light and silky, meant to be sipped slowly as the evening unfolds.

We’ve included a simple make-ahead tip to help you get a head start, so when the night arrives you can focus less on the stove and more on being together. This is exactly how we think about Date Nite: a thoughtfully planned meal, a beautiful drink, and space to connect.

If you’re new here, this is a small peek into our weekly Date Nite ritual. One menu, one cocktail, and a little inspiration to make an evening at home feel intentional. We’re so glad you’re here. If you’d like to experience more, you can explore three full Date Nite menus on us. You'll find this at the bottom of the menu.

Kevin & Kate

The Cocktail

Parisian Flip

The Menu

Braised Beef Short Ribs

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Your
Date Nite Essentials

Grocery List →

Everything you’ll need to make this meal — plus a few pantry staples you probably already have.

Tonight's Playlist →

Create the perfect candlelit winter night with James Quinn.

Let dinner linger. Do not rush to clean up right away and instead sit, talk, and stay at the table a little longer than usual.

What is something simple that always makes your day better?

notes from the kitchen

A few extra tips and tricks to help you get the most out of tonight's menu.

Short Ribs or Chuck Roast

We love using beef short ribs for this recipe, but we know they can be a little more of a splurge. Chuck roast works perfectly too. Just cut it into large, short-rib–sized chunks and braise it the same way.

Crock Pot is Our Number One Method

If you have a Crock Pot and the time, this is the method we recommend. The long, slow cook gives the ribs the most tender, fall apart texture and the deepest flavor.

Instant Pot Also Works Beautifully

We used the Instant Pot for this week’s video since winter daylight hours are short and it allowed us to film the entire recipe start to finish. It’s fast, convenient, and all done in one pot. If you don’t have an Instant Pot and want to see how easy it is, check out this week’s videos. → Link to Instant Pot

Broth Options. Strain or Not

You can strain and reduce the broth for a silky, restaurant-style sauce, finishing with a tablespoon of butter. Or you can simply spoon a little of the braising liquid from the Crock Pot around the vegetables and meat when serving. Both are delicious.

Ricotta Polenta for Maximum Creaminess

We’re always chasing the creamiest polenta, and ricotta has quickly become our favorite secret. It gives the polenta a rich, smooth finish. We forgot the butter in our video, but you can absolutely add it if you want extra richness.

Extra Fine Polenta Makes All the Difference

We prefer an extra fine polenta over coarse Southern-style grits. It cooks in minutes and creates that silky, velvety texture we love for Date Nite bowls. → Link to our favorite extra fine polenta

Why Roasted Broccoli Works So Well

The charred broccoli, lemon zest, and Parmesan bring brightness and balance to the richness of the short ribs and polenta.

A Great Make Ahead Option

If you want the morning to run smoothly, you can sear the ribs and build the braising broth the night before. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine and cook the next day.

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