If you're looking for a hearty and flavorful meal, look no further than 3 oz of beef shortribs. These lean, choice grade cuts are cooked to perfection through braising, resulting in 251 calories per serving.

In addition to being a delicious meal option, beef shortribs are also a great source of protein, with 22 grams per serving. However, they can also be high in fat, so it's important to enjoy them in moderation.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information, cooking tips and health benefits of beef shortribs, as well as some serving suggestions and precautions to keep in mind. So let's get started!

Calories in Beef Shortribs

As mentioned earlier, a serving of 3 oz beef shortribs contains 251 calories. This is on the higher end of the calorie spectrum, so if you're watching your intake, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes. However, it's worth noting that not all calories are created equal. Beef shortribs are a good source of macronutrients such as protein and healthy fats, which help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Protein in Beef Shortribs

In addition to being a flavorful cut of meat, beef shortribs are also a great source of protein. A 3 oz serving contains 22 grams of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. Protein also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal, which can help prevent overeating or snacking on unhealthy options later on.

Fat in Beef Shortribs

While beef shortribs are a good source of protein, they can also be high in fat. A 3 oz serving contains around 18 grams of fat, with 6 grams being saturated fat. While it's important to keep an eye on your fat intake, it's worth noting that not all fats are created equal. Beef shortribs contain healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which have been shown to help reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels.

Carbohydrates in Beef Shortribs

Beef shortribs are a low-carb option, containing only a negligible amount of carbohydrates. This can make them a great choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet, although it's worth noting that they should still be enjoyed in moderation to keep your overall calorie intake in check.

Vitamins and Minerals in Beef Shortribs

In addition to being a good source of macronutrients, beef shortribs also contain important vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Iron is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body, while zinc helps support a healthy immune system. B vitamins are important for energy production and brain function.

Cooked Beef Shortribs vs. Raw

While beef shortribs can be enjoyed raw, cooking them can help enhance their flavor and tenderness. Braising is a popular cooking method that involves slow cooking the meat in a liquid such as broth or wine. This helps to break down the connective tissue and fat, resulting in tender and juicy meat. It also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and delicious taste.

How to Cook Beef Shortribs

One popular cooking method for beef shortribs is braising, which involves slow cooking the meat in a liquid. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F
• Season your beef shortribs with salt and pepper
• In a Dutch oven, heat up some oil over medium-high heat and brown the shortribs on all sides
• Remove the shortribs and set them aside
• Add some chopped onions, carrots and celery to the pot and sauté until tender
• Add some minced garlic and cook for another minute or so
• Return the shortribs to the pot and add enough broth or red wine to cover halfway
• Cover the pot with a lid and bake in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until the shortribs are fork-tender

Ways to Serve Beef Shortribs

While beef shortribs are delicious on their own, there are plenty of ways to serve them up and add some variety to your meals. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Serve your shortribs with some roasted vegetables such as carrots, brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes
• Serve them over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or polenta
• Top them off with some fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary or parsley
• Use them as a filling for tacos or sandwiches
• Pair them with a bold red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah

Health Benefits of Beef Shortribs

Beef shortribs are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and important vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for your meals. The protein in beef shortribs can help support muscle growth and repair, while the healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels.

Precautions When Consuming Beef Shortribs

While beef shortribs can be a nutritious and delicious option, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. As mentioned earlier, they can be high in calories and fat, so it's important to enjoy them in moderation and watch your portion sizes. They can also be high in sodium, so if you're watching your salt intake, be sure to check the labels on any sauces or seasonings you use. If you have any health conditions such as heart disease, it's a good idea to consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian before adding beef shortribs to your diet, as they may not be suitable for everyone.