Braised Short Ribs (in the Best Sauce)

Season the ribs. Let the short ribs come to room temperature. Pat the short ribs dry with a paper towel, then season all sides with the salt and pepper. Set aside.

Cook the bacon. Slice the bacon into 1-inch (2.5cm) pieces. Heat a large pot on medium-low heat and add the bacon. Cook, stirring frequently, until the bacon is crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon to a bowl, and leave the grease in the pot.

Cook the short ribs. Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the short ribs and cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes, until browned all over. Transfer the short ribs to a plate and set aside.

Add the veggies. Add the onions and carrots to the pot and cook in the remaining bacon grease for 3 to 4 minutes or until the vegetables soften.

Add aromatics. Add the garlic and tomato paste, and stir together for another minute.

Add the red wine and simmer for 5 minutes, to reduce the wine by about half.

Place the ribs back in the pot. Add the beef broth, crispy bacon, and herbs. Cover, reduce the heat to low and cook for 2 to 2 ½ hours, until the meat is very tender and falling apart. If it's not falling apart, cook them a bit longer.

Remove the pot from the heat, use tongs to remove the sprigs of herbs, and skim off any fat that has accumulated on the surface. Then, enjoy the ribs over mashed potatoes with a spoonful of sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.