Having broth as a tapa is an old custom that's becoming popular again in both Spain and the U.S. Food editor Ruth Cousineau set out to make just the broth, but the resulting short rib meat was so delicious (even after cooking in broth all that time) that she didn't want to waste it, so she came up with a use for it in a short rib terrine. This recipe is traditionally made with oxtails, but we substituted short ribs and beef shanks because they're easier to get in most supermarkets. If you'd like to try it with oxtails instead of ribs and shanks, use 6 pounds of oxtails (preferably from grass-fed beef, such as Niman Ranch).
• Meat and vegetables can be chilled in broth up to 1 day.
• Broth can be strained 4 days ahead and cooled, uncovered, then chilled, covered. Reheat and season before using. (Chill raw diced carrot in a sealed plastic bag until ready to cook.)
