There’s something truly special about the way slow-cooked meals fill the home with warmth and rich aromas that beckon your family to the kitchen. Picture this: you walk in after a long day, only to be greeted by the savory scent of Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Ribs wafting through the air, coaxing you closer to the source.
I fell in love with this recipe during one particularly hectic week when takeout just didn’t cut it. The simplicity of the ingredients left me astounded—every pantry staple transformed into a comforting and spectacular dish. Each bite of these tender ribs enveloped in a glossy glaze seamlessly combines sweet, savory, and a hint of spice. Not only is this dish a showstopper for your dinner table, but the slow roasting method ensures melt-in-your-mouth perfection that will impress even your toughest critics.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a culinary experience that’s as easy as it is delightful. Whether served over jasmine rice or a bed of noodles, these beef short ribs are bound to become your new go-to for cozy dinner nights.
Why Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib is Irresistible?
Aromatic: The slow-cooking process infuses your home with an irresistible fragrance that no one can resist.
Tender, Flavorful Ribs: Each rib becomes succulent and bursting with a sweet and savory glaze.
Pantry Staples: You only need a handful of common ingredients, making it easy to prepare unforgettable meals at home.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve these ribs over rice, noodles, or even veggies for a satisfying meal that pleases everyone.
Impressive Presentation: With caramelized edges and a glossy finish, they look as fabulous as they taste, perfect for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these flavors will have everyone coming back for more!
For more comforting recipes like this one, check out my favorite slow-cooked dishes.
Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib Ingredients
For the Ribs
• Bone-in beef short ribs – 3–4 lbs for rich, beefy flavor, but boneless can be substituted for convenience.
For the Marinade
• Soy sauce – ½ cup adds a savory umami depth, or use tamari for a gluten-free version.
• Hoisin sauce – ¼ cup brings a perfect hint of sweetness and complexity to the dish.
• Mirin – ¼ cup enhances the glaze with a touch of sweetness; feel free to substitute with sugar in a pinch.
• Brown sugar – 3 tbsp balances flavors; coconut sugar is a great alternative for a more natural option.
• Garlic cloves – 4 minced for aromatic richness.
• Fresh ginger – 1 tbsp finely grated, adding a lovely, zesty warmth.
• Chili flakes – ½–1 tsp for a kick of heat (or 1 tsp Sriracha if you prefer).
For the Vegetables
• Small onion – 1, sliced to enhance sweetness and flavor absorption during cooking.
• Green onions – 2–3, cut into 2-inch pieces for a fresh garnish that adds a pop of color.
These Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Ribs are sure to become a beloved favorite in your household!
How to Make Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib
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Trim and Season: Start by trimming any excess fat from the short ribs. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for flavor absorption.
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Brown the Ribs: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on all sides until they develop a deep golden crust, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This enhances the depth of flavor.
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Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, mirin, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and optional chili flakes. This marinade will create a delicious glaze as the ribs cook.
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Slow Roast: In a Dutch oven or roasting pan, place the browned ribs, pour in the marinade, and add the sliced onions and green onions. Cover and slow roast at 275–300°F (135–150°C) for 3–4 hours, basting occasionally. The ribs should become incredibly tender.
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Thicken the Glaze: Once the ribs are done, carefully remove them and pour the braising liquid into a skillet. Simmer over medium heat until thick and glossy, adjusting with a cornstarch slurry if necessary for consistency.
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(Optional) Broil for Crispness: For added texture, broil the ribs on high for 2–3 minutes until the edges are caramelized. This step is optional but brings a delightful crunch.
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Serve and Garnish: Plate the caramelized ribs over your choice of rice, noodles, or vegetables. Drizzle with the glossy glaze and garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
Optional: Serve with pickled vegetables for an extra layer of taste!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Ribs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the marinade and season the ribs up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to lock in freshness and flavor. Additionally, brown the ribs and place them in the Dutch oven with the marinade and vegetables, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy this mouthwatering dish, just slow roast them directly from the fridge and proceed with the usual cooking instructions. These make-ahead steps ensure you can enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making mealtime stress-free and delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the flavors of the caramelized slow roast Asian beef short rib.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to label and date the container.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Leftover Glaze: Don’t forget to save any leftover glaze! You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it in ice cube trays for easy flavor boosts later on.
What to Serve with Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib?
Create the perfect family feast with delightful side dishes that complement the rich flavors of these melt-in-your-mouth ribs.
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Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains absorb the savory glaze beautifully, making every bite satisfying and complete.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add crunch and color, balancing the tenderness of the ribs. Try a splash of soy sauce for an extra kick!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture provides a comforting contrast to the hearty ribs, drenching each scoop with luscious gravy.
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Asian Noodle Salad: A refreshing mix of cold noodles, cilantro, and sesame dressing offers a bright, tangy accompaniment to the rich beef flavors.
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Sesame Green Beans: These lightly sautéed green beans with a sprinkle of sesame seeds bring a delightful nuttiness and freshness to the table.
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Pickled Cucumbers: Sweet and tangy, pickled cucumbers cut through the richness of the beef, adding a light crunch that refreshes the palate.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these add a subtle sweetness and make for a fun sidekick to your ribs.
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Oolong Tea: A warm cup of this fragrant tea complements the savory notes of the ribs, enhancing the overall dining experience.
This meal is perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings—your loved ones will surely be singing your praises!
Tips for the Best Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib
- Seasoning Matters: Make sure to season the ribs well. Skipping the salt and pepper can result in bland meat; these flavors are key to bringing out the richness.
- Searing Step: Don’t rush the browning. A good sear locks in flavor and creates that beautiful golden crust, enhancing the overall taste of your Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib.
- Basting Brings Flavor: Remember to baste your ribs occasionally while they roast. This infuses them with moisture and deeper flavor from the marinade, ensuring succulent results.
- Thickening the Glaze: If your glaze isn’t thickening as desired, don’t hesitate to use a cornstarch slurry. It’s an easy way to achieve that glossy finish that’s both beautiful and delicious.
- Broiling for Texture: Consider broiling the ribs for a few minutes at the end. This step gives you a caramelized crust and adds a delightful contrast to the tender meat.
Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own—these flavor twists will elevate your experience!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari for a 100% gluten-free version without sacrificing umami flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add more chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to give an exciting heat that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lime juice into the marinade for a bright, zesty flavor that beautifully cuts through the richness of the beef.
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Sweetness Balance: Swap brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist on sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the roasting pan; their aromatic nature will add layers of flavor to your ribs as they slowly cook.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in additional vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, during roasting for added nutrients and a beautiful color contrast on your plate.
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Asian Twist: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or even peanut sauce to give a completely different take on traditional flavors.
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Richness: For an even richer taste, add a cup of red wine or beef broth to the braising liquid, intensifying the beef flavor and creating a sumptuous sauce.
Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib Recipe FAQs
What type of beef short ribs should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using bone-in beef short ribs. They are packed with rich, beefy flavor. However, if convenience is key for you, boneless ribs can also be used, yielding equally tasty results.
How should I store leftover beef short ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled before sealing to maintain their delicious flavor and prevent sogginess. This way, you can enjoy another round of the caramelized slow roast Asian beef short ribs!
Can I freeze the beef short ribs?
Yes! If you want to enjoy your Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib at a later date, freeze them in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They will last up to 3 months. Just remember to label and date the bag and thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
What if my glaze isn’t thickening?
Very good question! If your glaze isn’t reaching the desired thickness, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Add this to the simmering sauce gradually. Stir continuously until you see it thicken—this should take just a couple of minutes!
Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a milder version, you can simply omit the chili flakes or Sriracha altogether. Conversely, those who enjoy a bit of heat can double up on the chili flakes or even add a dash more of Sriracha to kick it up a notch. It’s all about tailoring it to your taste buds!
Caramelized Slow Roast Asian Beef Short Rib for Flavor Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Trim any excess fat from the short ribs. Pat dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on all sides until golden crusted for about 5-7 minutes.
- Whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, mirin, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes to prepare the marinade.
- In a Dutch oven, place the browned ribs, pour in marinade, add onions and green onions. Cover and slow roast at 275–300°F (135–150°C) for 3–4 hours.
- Remove ribs, pour braising liquid into a skillet, and simmer over medium heat until thick and glossy.
- Optional: Broil ribs on high for 2-3 minutes until edges are caramelized.
- Serve ribs over rice, noodles, or vegetables; drizzle with glaze and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro.