Can I use a Dutch oven when recipe calls for using a slow cooker?

Question

I have a recipe for braised short ribs that calls for using a slow cooker on low for 6 hours. I have a Le Creuset Dutch oven-6 quart and was wondering what adjustments- other than total cooking time- I would need to make in order to properly cook this dish? I'm thinking of searing the ribs 1st then placing on very low simmer with the rest of the ingredients for as long as needed to cook through. Just want to make sure before proceeding. Thanks.

Answer 1

Just what you described is perfect.  

Answer 2

I have the same Dutch oven and I braised short ribs in it a few weeks ago.  It worked great, and I seared my ribs and added them to my veggies, wine and stock.  I think it took about 4 hours to get very tender.  I cooked it on med-low heat with the lid slightly ajar so the stock could reduce and concentrate.  You should have no problem.

Answer 3

That will not be a problem as the only difference would be in the cooking time, and you are aware of that.

You could also cook them in the oven.

The only other thing I can think of is the level of the liquid and the number of times you will need to turn/rearrange the in the Dutch oven.

Answer 4

Definetly Sear the ribs in the dutch oven add your mirepoix (2 parts onions, 1 part carrots, 1 part celery) brown the vegetables pince(carmelize) with tomato paste deglaze with red wine and reduce by half.  Add beef broth and seared ribs( have enough broth to cover ribs), add bay leaf, peppercorns,and fresh thyme sprigs. bring to a simmer, cover and put into a 300 degree oven until fork tender. About 3-4 hours depending on size of ribs.  Remove ribs and bring cooking liquid to a boil and thicken with a roux.  Strain and season with S&P

Answer 5

You are correct.  Paula Deen host of Paula's Home Cooking at foodnetwork.com has outstanding short rib recipes cooked in a dutch oven.

Answer 6

I don't see why not.  As you mentioned, I would watch the cooking time. My ribs tend to sometimes fall apart in the slow cooker from cooking too long.  Good luck.

Answer 7

Before placing them on a slow simmer, cover the top of the dutch oven with tin foil, then the lid to the pot. Preheat your oven to 325F and place the dutch oven in the center of the big oven for about 3 hours.

Instead of the heat coming only through the bottom of the dutch oven on stove top, you will have a much more even distribution of heat using this professional kitchen method...and nothing should stick to the sides of the pot either.

Good luck!