Name: Short Ribs Braised in Ancho Chile Sauce
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 4 1/2 hr
Yield: Makes 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 dried ancho chiles, stemmed, seeded, and ribs discarded; 2 cups boiling-hot water; 1 medium onion, quartered; 3 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped; 2 tablespoons finely chopped canned chipotle chiles in adobo plus 2 teaspoons adobo sauce; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon salt; 6 lb beef short ribs or flanken; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/2 cup brewed coffee

Inspired by chef Robert Del Grande of Cafe Annie, in Houston, we combine the succulence of short ribs with the bitter undertones of coffee and the mellow heat of two kinds of chiles, along with maple syrup and lime juice to cut the spiciness. We recommend serving these meltingly tender ribs over soft polenta.

Cooks' note:

Ribs improve in flavor if braised 2 days ahead. Cool completely, uncovered, then chill, ribs covered directly with parchment or wax paper and roasting pan covered with foil. Remove any solidified fat before reheating.

Recipe notes

Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce

A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Our go-to banana bread recipe is moist, nutty, and incredibly easy to make.

Super Seedy Power Cookies

As energizing as an energy bar, with a much simpler ingredient list.

Speedy Chicken Stroganoff

This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.

Meatball Tagine

Warming harissa and cinnamon, briny olives, and sweet dried fruit make up the flavorful base for this weeknight-friendly take on tagine.