Braised Short Ribs

1. Pour the wine into a large saucepan set over medium heat.
2. When the wine is heated, carefully set it aflame.
3. Let the flames die out, then increase the heat and bring the wine to a boil; continue boiling until the liquid reduces by half.
4. Remove from the heat.
5. Center a rack in the oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
6. Heat the oil in a Dutch oven or large casserole, large enough to hold the 6 portions of ribs, over medium-high heat.
7. Season the ribs all over with salt and the crushed pepper.
8. Dust the ribs with about 2 tablespoons of matzoh meal and then when the oil is hot, slip the ribs into the pot and sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until well browned.
9. Transfer the browned ribs to a plate.
10. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of fat from the pot; lower the heat to medium, and toss in the vegetables and herbs.
11. Saute the vegetable until lightly browned, 5 to 7 minutes, then stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to blend.
12. Add the reduced wine, browned ribs, and stock.
13. Bring to a boil; cover the pot tightly, slide it into the oven, and cook until the ribs are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork, about 2 1/2 hours.
14. Every 30 minutes or so, lift the lid and skim and discard whatever fat may have bubbled up to the surface.
15. Carefully transfer the meat to a heated serving platter, cover, and keep warm.
16. Boil the pan liquid until it thickens and reduces to approximately 1 quart.
17. Season with salt and pepper and pass through a fine-mesh strainer; discard the solids.
18. Pour the sauce over the meat.

Yield: 6 servings