Short ribs are known for their rich, beefy flavor and tender texture, and they offer versatility to a wide range of cooking styles and preferences. Whether slow-cooked to perfection, grilled to a succulent, char, or braised in a savory sauce, short ribs consistently deliver a satisfying and gourmet experience.
Their rise in popularity can be attributed to the growing appreciation for cuts of meat that are not only flavorful but also lend themselves to various cooking techniques, allowing chefs and home cooks alike to explore and experiment with new and exciting recipes. From comfort food classics to sophisticated dining, short ribs have firmly established themselves as a beloved choice for meat enthusiasts everywhere. Keep reading to learn about short ribs.
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Why Are They Called Short Ribs?
Short ribs get their name from the section of the cow they come from. Unlike other ribs that span the entire length of the ribcage, short ribs come from the lower section of the ribcage, specifically from the rib ends. This area is situated closer to the breastbone, making the ribs shorter than the back ribs, hence the name “short ribs.” The meat here is well-marbled and known for its rich flavor, which makes it a favorite for various culinary preparations.
What Meat Is Short Ribs?
Short ribs are a cut of beef taken from the cow’s brisket, chuck, plate, or lower rib areas. They consist of a short portion of the rib bone, which is covered by a layer of meat. When cooked properly, this meat is particularly prized for its intense flavor and tenderness. The marbling within the meat adds to its succulent taste, making short ribs a popular choice for slow-cooking methods that allow the fat and connective tissues to break down, resulting in a tender and juicy dish.
Are Short Ribs Beef or Pork?
Short ribs are typically beef, but there are also pork versions known as pork short ribs. Beef short ribs come from the lower ribcage of the cow, while pork short ribs are usually cut from the spare ribs of the pig. Both types of short ribs can be used in a variety of recipes.
What Is the Best Way to Cook Beef Short Ribs?
Cooking beef short ribs requires patience and the right method to achieve their best flavor and tenderness. Here are a few popular methods:
Braising
Braised beef short ribs are one of the most popular ways to enjoy this cut of beef. This involves searing the ribs in a hot pan to develop a crust and then cooking them slowly in a covered pot with a small amount of broth, wine, or beer at low heat. This method allows the connective tissues to break down, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
Slow Cooking
Using a slow cooker is another great way to cook short ribs. Like braised beef ribs, slow cooking involves searing the ribs and then cooking them slowly over several hours. This method is convenient and results in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Grilling
For a more charred flavor, beef short ribs can be grilled. Marinate the ribs beforehand to enhance the flavor, and grill them over medium heat. While grilling, it’s essential to cook them slowly to avoid drying out the meat.
Smoking
Smoking beef short ribs infuses them with a deep, smoky flavor. This method requires a smoker and a longer cooking time at low temperatures, but the result is worth the effort. The ribs should be smoked until they reach the desired tenderness.
Braised Beef Ribs In Red Wine Sauce
Ingredients:
4 beef short ribs
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1.5 tsp salt
Freshly ground black pepper
½ yellow onion, diced
2 clove garlic, minced
1 cup sliced baby portobello mushrooms
1 tsp dried thyme
2 bay leaves
1 cup red wine
2 cups beef or mushroom stock
1 tbsp cornstarch
Extra virgin olive oil
Directions:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and a few twists of freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl.
- Rub the spice mixture generously over each of the beef short ribs.
- Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to your pan, then add in the short ribs.
- Sear each side of the short ribs for 2 minutes or so until a nice crust has formed. Don’t let them burn.
- Remove the short ribs and transfer them to a slow cooker or instant pot.
- Leave the drippings from the fat in the pan and add a little more olive oil. Add in your diced onion. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until it has softened and is translucent.
- Add in the garlic and cook for a further 30 seconds, just until you can smell it.
- Deglaze the pan with the red wine. Be sure to scrape up any brown bits on the pan–that’s good flavor.
- Pour the liquid and aromatics into the slow cooker over the beef short ribs.
- Add in the beef stock, thyme, bay leaves, and mushrooms.
- Cook on low for 8 hours.
Make The Red Wine Sauce For Braised Beef Short Ribs
- Remove the beef short ribs to a plate and make a cornstarch slurry: 1 tbsp cornstarch and ½ cup of cold water whisked together.
- Transfer around 2 cups of your braising liquid with mushrooms to a small saucepan. Add in the cornstarch slurry and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once the mixture begins to thicken, remove the pot from the heat. Add in a splash or two of fresh red wine.
- Spoon the red wine sauce over your braised beef ribs and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
What To Serve With Braised Beef Short Ribs
Our braised short rib recipe lends itself to a variety of sides. You can’t go wrong with classic garlic mashed potatoes or crispy steakhouse Brussels sprouts. But try a couple of the following for a unique take on sides with your braised beef short ribs:
- Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pao de Queijo)
- Feijoada With Farofa Topping
- Brazilian Collards With Bacon
- Brazilian Rice
Where to Buy Short Ribs
The easiest way to purchase high-quality short ribs is through Texas de Brazil’s online butcher shop. Our bone-in beef short ribs are USDA Choice with rich marbling and superior flavor. Choose from a variety of other premium cuts of beef, pork, chicken, and lamb for your next cookout. Visit our online shop today to choose from a la carte and hand-curated grilling packages–just in time for Father’s Day!
