Simple Cooking

This recipe is inspired by ones that use flanken, a cut of beef from the chuck end of short ribs. In Jewish custom, the meat is boiled and served with horseradish. Our version uses braised boneless ribs and pairs them with earthy vegetables.

A tasty herb oil is a nice alternative to a heavy or complicated sauce. It’s quick and easy to make, and it looks and tastes great. Herb oil can be refrigerated up to 2 days before using; bring to room temperature before serving.

Filet mignon can be prepared this way as well: Sear two 8-ounce steaks over direct heat for 3 minutes per side; grill over indirect heat until medium-rare, 5 to 6 minutes more per side.

Grilled knockwurst goes well with yellow or Dijon mustard and soft pretzels. The knockwurst will char quickly on the grill; be sure to turn it frequently.

You can refrigerate the sauerbraten, covered, for up to 2 days. (In fact, the flavors develop nicely when the dish is made ahead of time.)

This is an excellent accompaniment to meat or fish; it can also be served as an entrée.

Serve this dish with a platter of mixed garden tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with coarse salt.

You can make this stew 1 day ahead to allow its flavors to mellow and mingle.

After the beef finishes cooking, let it stand at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before carving. Keep in mind it will continue to cook after it has been removed from the oven.

Toasting couscous in the pan before adding water imparts a nuttiness that complements the distinctive flavors of mint and parsley.

Because this recipe makes a large quantity of risotto, be sure to use a wide, shallow saucepan or skillet to let the rice cook evenly.

To make this recipe in advance, dice the beet and prepare as directed in step 1, and refrigerate it in the liquid, covered, up to 1 day.