cook like james

I found this recipe in a new cookbook from America’s Test Kitchen – Toast Oven Perfection.  I’m often cooking for two and my toaster oven speeds up the whole process and delivers the same results as a traditional oven. The boneless short ribs and celery root cook together on a quarter sheet pan and the whole meal comes together in about 40 minutes with just a few additional fresh ingredients.

Download Coffee Fennel-Rubbed Boneless Short Ribs Roasted Celery Root Parsley Salad recipe

2 pounds celery root, peeled and cut into ¾-inch pieces

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper

1½ teaspoons ground fennel

1 teaspoon ground coffee

1 teaspoon packed brown sugar

½ teaspoon garlic powder

12 ounces boneless short ribs, 1½ to 2 inches thick and 4 to 5 inches long, trimmed

½ cup pomegranate seeds

½ cup fresh parsley leaves

1 teaspoon lemon juice

*Note: The thickness and marbling of boneless short ribs can vary; look for lean ribs cut from the chuck. Do not substitute bone-in English-style short ribs. Because they are cooked gently and not seared, the short ribs will be rosy throughout.

1. Adjust the oven rack to the lowest position and heat to 450 degrees. Combine fennel, coffee, sugar, garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper in small bowl. Pat short ribs dry with paper towels, rub with 1 teaspoon oil, and sprinkle evenly with spice mixture. Arrange ribs on one half of the small sheet pan.

2. Toss celery root with 2 teaspoons oil, ⅛ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon pepper in bowl; transfer to the empty side of sheet pan and arrange in a single layer.

3. Roast until meat registers 120-125 degrees (for medium-rare) or 130-135 degrees (for medium) and celery root is tender, about 10-15 minutes, flipping ribs and tossing celery root halfway through roasting. Transfer short ribs to cutting board, tent with aluminum foil, and let rest while preparing salad.

4. Transfer celery root to large bowl, add pomegranate seeds, parsley, lemon juice, and remaining 1 tablespoon oil, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Slice short ribs thin and serve with salad.