THYME RUBBED BISON SHORT RIB

The unique mélange of seasonings in this slow-cooking dish yields a hint of citrus flavor. Serve with thick slices of fresh, crusty ciabatta to soak up every delicious drop of the braising broth.

• 6 tbsp finely chopped fresh thyme leaves for the spice rub

• 1/4 cup fresh minced garlic for the spice rub

• 2 tbsp olive oil for the spice rub

• 2 tbsp freshly grated lemon zest for spice rub

• 1 tbsp fresh coarse ground pepper for the spice rub

• 1 tbsp sea salt for the spice rub

• 4 lb bison short ribs (fresh or fully thawed) for braise

• 1/4 cup olive oil for braise

• 1 medium onion, diced in large chunks, for braise

• 1 medium fennel head, diced in large chunks, for braise

• 1 medium celery stock, dice in large chunks, for braise

• 3 fresh thyme sprigs for braise

• 1 medium bay leaf for braise

• 2 cups low sodium beef broth for braise

1. Preheat oven to 300°F and place oven rack in the middle.

2. Mix all rub ingredients together in a sealed large plastic bag.

3. Cut racks between the bones to make smaller pieces.

4. Dredge the pieces, in batches, in the sealed plastic bag to cover with spice rub.

5. Remove pieces and let sit for 20 minutes at room temperature.

6. Place oil into a large shallow ovenproof heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat.

7. Once the oil has heated, remove the lid, add ribs in batches, and sear until well browned on both sides.

8. Remove the ribs and set aside.

9. Add onion, fennel, and celery to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and stir, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender (about 10 minutes).

10. Stir in thyme, bay leaf, and broth or broth/wine mixture.

11. Gently place ribs bone side up in the pot and bring the whole mixture to a boil.

12. Cover the pot and transfer to the oven. Cook until the meat falls apart with a fork (about 4 hours)

13. Place the entire mixture into a slow cooker and cook on low setting for 6-8 hours or until fork tender.