5 Mouthwatering Short Ribs Recipes You'll Love

Short ribs are a popular cut of meat that, when prepared correctly, can offer a symphony of flavors and textures. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, these short ribs recipes will guide you through creating sumptuous dishes that will delight any palate. Let's dive into five different ways to cook this delectable cut.

1. Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine

Ingredients:

• 4 pounds beef short ribs
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bottle of dry red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves

Preparation:

1. Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the ribs on all sides, then set them aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped vegetables and sauté until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Pour in the red wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a boil and reduce by half.
6. Return the ribs to the pot, add beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
7. Serve with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the rich sauce.

🌟 Note: Use a good quality red wine as the flavor will greatly influence your dish!

2. Korean BBQ Galbi

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Korean-style short ribs (flanken cut)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, grated
• 1 pear or Asian pear, grated
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Preparation:

1. Combine all the ingredients except ribs in a bowl to make the marinade.
2. Marinate the ribs for at least 6 hours, or overnight for better flavor penetration.
3. Grill the ribs over medium-high heat until charred and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Serve with steamed rice and kimchi.

🌟 Note: For an authentic taste, try to get Korean pear for your marinade as it tenderizes the meat.

3. Slow-Cooker BBQ Short Ribs

Ingredients:

• 4-5 pounds beef short ribs
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper
• 2 cups BBQ sauce (your favorite)
• 1/2 cup beef broth

Preparation:

1. Rub the ribs with a mixture of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place ribs in a slow cooker, add the BBQ sauce and beef broth. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for about 4-5 hours until the ribs are tender.
4. Serve with coleslaw or potato salad for a true BBQ experience.

🌟 Note: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the ribs when done and reduce the cooking liquid on the stove.

4. Grilled Caribbean Jerk Short Ribs

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds short ribs
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 1 jalapeño or scotch bonnet pepper, seeds removed
• 1 tbsp allspice
• 1 tbsp thyme
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup dark rum

Preparation:

1. Blend the green onions, jalapeño, spices, soy sauce, lime juice, and rum to create the jerk marinade.
2. Marinate ribs in the mixture for at least 4 hours.
3. Grill the ribs over indirect heat until tender and charred, around 20-30 minutes, basting occasionally.
4. Enjoy with a fresh mango salsa.

🌟 Note: Adjust the heat level with the type of pepper used; Scotch bonnet will give you the classic Caribbean fire!

5. Bacon-Wrapped Short Ribs

Ingredients:

• 6-8 beef short ribs
• 12-16 slices of bacon
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp paprika
• BBQ sauce for brushing

Preparation:

1. Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, and rub it all over the short ribs.
2. Wrap each rib in 2 slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
3. Prepare a grill for indirect grilling. Place the ribs over indirect heat and cook for about 2-3 hours at low heat, basting with BBQ sauce in the last hour.
4. Serve with grilled vegetables or a side salad.

🌟 Note: Soaking toothpicks in water before use prevents them from burning on the grill.

Summary

These five mouthwatering short ribs recipes offer a range of cooking methods, from slow braising to grilling, ensuring there's something for everyone's taste. Each method brings out unique flavors and textures, making short ribs a versatile and indulgent choice for special meals. Remember, the key to tender, flavorful short ribs lies in both the cooking technique and the quality of ingredients used. Whether you're aiming for a classic comfort food dish or an exotic flavor adventure, these recipes will guide you to delicious results.

What cut of short ribs is best for braising?

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English-style short ribs, also known as flanken-cut ribs, are ideal for braising as they have more meat and less bone, allowing for slow cooking.

Can I substitute short ribs with another cut of meat?

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Yes, while the texture might differ, you can substitute short ribs with chuck roast, brisket, or even pork ribs, though adjustments in cooking time might be necessary.

How do I know when short ribs are done cooking?

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Short ribs are done when the meat is tender enough to fall off the bone or when a fork inserted into the meat meets no resistance.

What are some good side dishes to serve with short ribs?

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Short ribs pair well with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, grilled or roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh, tangy salad.