Name: Tender Asian Beef Short Ribs – A Must-Try Comfort Dish!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 270 min
Ingredients: 3–4 lbs Bone-in Beef Short Ribs (Boneless can be swapped but changes texture.); 0.5 cup Soy Sauce (Use tamari for a gluten-free option.); 0.25 cup Hoisin Sauce (Adds a delightful sweetness.); 0.25 cup Mirin (Contributes sweetness and acidity.); 3 tbsp Brown Sugar (Coconut sugar is a great alternative.); 4 cloves Garlic, minced (Provides aromatic warmth.); 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger, grated (Infuses spice and zest.); 0.5–1 tsp Chili Flakes or Sriracha (Optional for heat.); 1 small Onion, sliced (Brings sweetness and complexity.); 2–3 Green Onions, cut into 2-inch pieces (Adds a fresh garnish.); 1 tsp Cornstarch (Mixed with 1 tbsp water to thicken.); Steamed Rice, Noodles, or Roasted Vegetables (Completes the meal.)

As the aroma of slowly caramelizing beef fills the kitchen, you can’t help but feel transported to a cozy Asian eatery—without ever leaving your home. This recipe for Asian Beef Short Ribs features succulent, tender meat smothered in a savory, umami-rich glaze that’s irresistibly satisfying. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity; with just a bit of prep and some slow roasting, you’ll have a meal worthy of any dinner party or special occasion. Plus, these ribs are perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner when you need a little extra love on your plate. Ready to dive into a world of rich, delicious flavors? Let’s get started!

Why is This Recipe So Irresistible?

Tender, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Meat: Each bite of these Asian Beef Short Ribs is a revelation, offering a velvety texture that leaves you craving more.

Umami Explosion: The rich blend of soy sauce, hoisin, and spices creates a savory glaze that’s both complex and deeply satisfying.

Easy Preparation: With just a bit of marinating and slow roasting, this dish comes together effortlessly—perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these at your next gathering and watch your family and friends rave about this unforgettable comfort food.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with jasmine rice, sautéed greens, or noodles for a complete meal (or try them with pickled veggies for a gourmet touch). Dive into the full experience of flavors by including ideas from our Korean Ground Beef for a similarly satisfying twist!

Asian Beef Short Rib Ingredients

For the Ribs
• Bone-in Beef Short Ribs (3–4 lbs) – The star of the dish, delivering rich flavor and tenderness; boneless can be swapped but changes texture.
• Soy Sauce (½ cup) – Provides that savory umami kick; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Hoisin Sauce (¼ cup) – Adds a delightful sweetness and depth to the glaze.
• Mirin (¼ cup) – Contributes just the right hint of sweetness and acidity to balance flavors.
• Brown Sugar (3 tbsp) – Enhances caramelization for a lovely sweetness; coconut sugar is a great alternative.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Provides aromatic warmth and a depth of flavor.
• Fresh Ginger (1 tbsp, grated) – Infuses the dish with spice and zest.
• Chili Flakes or Sriracha (½–1 tsp) – Optional, for those who love a hint of heat.
• Onion (1 small, sliced) – Brings sweetness and complexity to the dish.
• Green Onions (2–3, cut into 2-inch pieces) – Adds a fresh garnish and mild onion flavor.

For the Glaze
• Cornstarch (1 tsp mixed with 1 tbsp water) – Optional, perfect for thickening the glaze and enhancing shine.

For Serving
• Steamed Rice, Noodles, or Roasted Vegetables – Completes the meal beautifully and balances the rich flavors of the beef.

By gathering these ingredients, you’re setting the stage for a delightful culinary experience that showcases the best of Asian Beef Short Ribs. Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Asian Beef Short Rib

Step 1: Prep the Ribs
Start by trimming any excess fat from the bone-in beef short ribs and patting them dry with paper towels. This will help achieve a delicious caramelization. Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Prepping the ribs well not only enhances the flavor but ensures they can soak up the delicious marinade later.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs
Heat a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned ribs into the skillet and sear them for about 3-5 minutes on each side, until they develop a deep golden crust. This step is crucial for adding depth of flavor to your Asian Beef Short Ribs, creating that rich, savory taste we all love.

Step 3: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of soy sauce, ¼ cup of hoisin sauce, ¼ cup of mirin, and 3 tablespoons of brown sugar. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger, and optional chili flakes or Sriracha for heat. Whisk until fully combined. This marinade will infuse your beef short ribs with mouthwatering umami flavor as they roast.

Step 4: Roast
Transfer the seared ribs to an oven-safe Dutch oven and pour the prepared marinade over them. Add thinly sliced onion and cut green onions for added flavor. Cover the pot and roast in a preheated oven at 275–300°F (135–150°C) for 3-4 hours. Baste the ribs occasionally during cooking to keep them moist and enhance flavor. They’ll become tender and incredibly delicious.

Step 5: Reduce the Sauce
Once the ribs are tender, carefully pour the braising liquid from the Dutch oven into a skillet over medium heat. Allow it to simmer, reducing until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 10-15 minutes. If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce. Stir until taut consistency is achieved.

Step 6: Optional Broil
For an extra layer of caramelization, transfer the cooked ribs to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye during this step, as the high heat can quickly over-brown the ribs. This will give your Asian Beef Short Ribs a delightful, crispy finish that contrasts beautifully with their tender meat.

Step 7: Serve
Plate the deliciously tender Asian Beef Short Ribs over a bed of steamed rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables. Drizzle the rich, reduced glaze generously over the ribs, then garnish with additional chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of freshness. Each bite will be a heavenly blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress!

What to Serve with Asian Beef Short Ribs

As you savor the rich, succulent flavors of each bite, consider these delightful accompaniments that elevate your dining experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fragrant rice absorbs the savory glaze beautifully, balancing the robust flavors of the ribs. It’s the perfect base for this meal.
Garlic Bok Choy: Sautéed bok choy adds a pleasing crunch and vibrant color alongside the tender ribs, offering a fresh and healthy element to your plate.
Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side of pickled carrots and daikon contrasts wonderfully with the rich layers of flavor in the beef, adding a delightful zing.
Noodles in Soy Sauce: Tossed in a simple soy sauce and scallion mix, these provide a comforting, heartwarming element that complements the Asian Beef Short Ribs perfectly.
Spicy Kimchi: For those who enjoy heat, kimchi introduces a fermented element that harmonizes unexpectedly well with the sweet and savory glaze!
Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy side salad adds texture and brightness, cutting through the richness of the beef for a balanced bite.
Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Pair your meal with a refreshing drink to cleanse the palate, enhancing the overall flavors of your comforting feast.

Make Ahead Options

These Asian Beef Short Ribs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the ribs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for a truly delightful dish. Simply season and sear the ribs as instructed, then prepare the marinade and coat the ribs. Store them in the refrigerator overnight to develop rich flavor. When you’re ready to serve, roast the marinated ribs directly from the fridge, adjusting the cooking time if necessary. By prepping ahead, you not only save time but also guarantee that your Asian Beef Short Ribs will be just as delicious and tender when it’s time to indulge.

Expert Tips for Asian Beef Short Ribs

Marinate Wisely: Use a minimum of 2 hours, but letting the ribs soak overnight deepens the flavor and texture of your Asian Beef Short Ribs.

Sear for Success: Don’t rush the searing step; the golden crust adds essential flavor that elevates your dish beyond basic.

Basting Matters: Occasionally basting during roasting keeps the ribs moist and infuses them with luscious flavor from the glaze.

Watch the Broil: Broiling enhances caramelization, but be vigilant—just a minute too long can lead to burnt edges.

Serve Hot: Enjoy your Asian Beef Short Ribs hot for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience. Cold leftovers need gentle reheating to keep their tenderness.

Asian Beef Short Rib Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you tailor this dish to your family’s tastes and dietary needs.

Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari to keep this dish gluten-free while retaining that essential umami flavor. Your friends with dietary restrictions will be grateful!
Sweetened Alternative: Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetness profile that adds a subtle layer of flavor.
Miso Upgrade: Stir in some miso paste into the marinade for an extra boost of savory richness that deepens the glaze’s flavor. It’s an unexpected twist that lovers of umami will adore!
Bold Heat: For those craving spice, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a touch more Sriracha. This will elevate the flavor profile and give your taste buds a delightful zing.
Different Meat Cut: If short ribs aren’t available, try using chuck roast instead. While the flavor will shift slightly, you’ll still enjoy a tender, rich dish.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Swap the beef for hearty, meaty mushrooms like shiitake or portobello, and adjust the marinade accordingly; they absorb flavor beautifully for a plant-based twist.
Vibrant Vegetables: Toss in an assortment of hearty vegetables like carrots or radishes during roasting for added nutrition and a pop of color on your plate.
Asian-Inspired Glaze: Get creative by incorporating different Asian sauces like teriyaki or hoisin variations for an exciting flavor experience—check out my Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes for inspiration!

No matter the variation, these Asian Beef Short Ribs will always deliver a flavor-packed experience that makes meal times extraordinary. Enjoy experimenting!

How to Store and Freeze Asian Beef Short Ribs

Fridge: Store leftover Asian Beef Short Ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and tenderness.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, avoiding the microwave to maintain that delicious texture.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen ribs overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Asian Beef Short Ribs Recipe FAQs

What type of beef short ribs should I use?
I recommend using bone-in beef short ribs for the ultimate richness and tenderness. While you can swap in boneless short ribs, the texture may differ, leading to a less succulent bite.

How do I know when my short ribs are tender enough?
After 3-4 hours of slow roasting, the ribs should be fork-tender, meaning they easily pull apart when gently tested with a fork. If they still feel tough, continue to roast them, checking every 30 minutes until they reach that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Absolutely! Place your leftover Asian Beef Short Ribs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy them again without compromising the flavor or tenderness.

What’s the best way to reheat my short ribs?
To retain their delicious texture, gently reheat the ribs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving them, as it can lead to dry meat and inconsistency in texture.

How should I freeze my Asian Beef Short Ribs?
For freezing, wrap each rib tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re on a gluten-free diet, substitute the soy sauce with tamari. Additionally, if you or someone you’re serving has allergies, be cautious with ingredients like garlic and sesame seeds that some may be sensitive to. Always check labels to ensure safety!