Braised Short Ribs

1. Pat the short ribs dry and allow them to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper on all sides. Heat a large Dutch oven (or heavy-bottom pot) over medium heat. Add enough olive oil to coat the bottom. When the oil is hot, work in batches to sear the short ribs on all four sides until deeply browned. Transfer the short ribs to a plate and set aside.
2. Add the onions and celery to the beef drippings. Season with a good pinch of salt. Cook until softened and slightly brown. Stir in the garlic and continue to cook for a few seconds. Stir in the tomato paste and flour until well combined. Let cook for another minute or so.
3. Add the wine and balsamic vinegar. Stir well and bring the liquid to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes. Pour in the beef stock and add the short ribs back to the pot, along with the herbs. Bring the liquid to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, leaving a slight crack to allow steam to escape.
4. Braise the meat for 3 ½ hours. Stir in the lemon zest. Serve the short ribs & roasted root vegetables (recipe below) over whipped potatoes. Spoon some of the braising liquid over top.

Roasted Root Vegetables

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Arrange the beets onto a sheet pan and the carrots + turnips onto another.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and toss well to coat all sides. Spread the vegetables into an even layer (the vegetables should not be on top of each other). Season well with a good pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
3. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.