How To Cook Short Ribs On Stove Top

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Introduction

Are you craving a tender and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than short ribs cooked on the stovetop. This hearty and mouthwatering dish is a favorite among meat lovers, and with the right techniques, you can create a culinary masterpiece right in your own kitchen.

Short ribs are a cut of beef known for their rich marbling and intense flavor. They come from the lower rib section of the cow and are typically sold in small, thick pieces. While they can be cooked using various methods, stove-top cooking allows for precise temperature control, resulting in perfectly tender and succulent short ribs.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking short ribs on the stovetop, from choosing the right cut to adding the perfect seasoning and achieving the ideal doneness. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Choosing the Right Short Ribs

When it comes to cooking short ribs on the stovetop, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial for achieving the best results. There are two main types of short ribs that you can choose from: English-cut and Flanken-cut.

The English-cut short ribs are cut parallel to the bone, resulting in long bone sections with a thick layer of meat on top. This cut is ideal for slow cooking methods like braising, as the meat becomes incredibly tender and flavorful as it cooks.

On the other hand, Flanken-cut short ribs are cut across the bone, resulting in thin slices of meat with small bone pieces. This cut is perfect for quick stovetop cooking methods, as the thin meat slices cook more evenly and quickly.

When selecting short ribs, look for pieces that are well-marbled, as the fat will render during cooking, adding moisture and flavor to the meat. The meat should be a deep red color, indicating its freshness. Avoid ribs that appear pale or discolored, as this may indicate spoilage or improper storage.

If possible, purchase your short ribs from a reputable butcher who sources high-quality meat. They will be able to provide you with the best cuts of meat and guide you in choosing the right type of short ribs for your cooking method.

Once you have selected your short ribs, it’s time to move on to the next step: preparing the meat for cooking.

Preparing the Short Ribs

Before you start cooking your short ribs, it’s important to properly prepare them to ensure a delicious and tender end result. Follow these steps to get your short ribs ready for the stovetop:

1. Trim Excess Fat: Short ribs tend to have a thick layer of fat on one side. While some fat is desirable for flavor and moisture, excessive fat can make the dish greasy. Use a sharp knife to trim off any large chunks of fat, leaving behind a thin layer.
2. Season with Salt: Sprinkle kosher salt or sea salt on both sides of the short ribs. Salt enhances the natural flavors of the meat and helps to tenderize it.
3. Bring to Room Temperature: Take the short ribs out of the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature. This step ensures even cooking and prevents the meat from seizing up when added to the hot pan.

By following these simple steps, you will be able to prepare your short ribs for cooking on the stovetop. The next crucial step is seasoning the meat to enhance its flavor.

Seasoning the Short Ribs

Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavor of your short ribs. While you can keep the seasoning simple with just salt and pepper, adding additional herbs and spices can take your dish to another level. Here are some seasoning ideas to consider:

• Classic Seasoning: For a classic flavor profile, generously season both sides of the short ribs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple combination allows the natural flavors of the meat to shine.
• Garlic and Herb Rub: Create a flavorful rub by combining minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Massage the mixture onto the short ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.
• Korean-style Marinade: If you want to add an Asian twist to your dish, prepare a Korean-inspired marinade. Mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a dash of chili flakes. Marinate the short ribs in this mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking to infuse them with a bold and savory flavor.
• BBQ Rub: If you love the smoky and tangy flavors of barbecued meat, prepare a BBQ rub with ingredients like paprika, brown sugar, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Generously coat the short ribs with this rub and let the flavors penetrate the meat before cooking.

Whatever seasoning combination you choose, make sure to coat the short ribs evenly and allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This will give the flavors a chance to develop and infuse into the meat.

Now that your short ribs are properly seasoned, it’s time to move on to the cooking process. We will braise the short ribs on the stovetop to achieve tender and succulent meat.

Braising the Short Ribs

Braising is a cooking technique that involves browning the meat first and then slowly simmering it in a liquid. This method is ideal for cooking short ribs on the stovetop, as it helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with rich flavors. Follow these steps to braise your short ribs:

1. Heat the Pan: Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of cooking oil, such as vegetable or olive oil, and allow it to heat up.
2. Sear the Short Ribs: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned short ribs to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear the ribs on all sides until they develop a golden brown crust, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds flavor and texture to the meat.
3. Remove the Ribs: Transfer the seared short ribs to a plate and set them aside.
4. Prepare the Aromatics and Liquid: In the same pan, add diced onions, carrots, celery, and any other aromatics you desire, such as garlic or herbs. Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and fragrant. Then, pour in your chosen liquid, such as beef broth, red wine, or a combination of both. This liquid will help to deglaze the pan and create a flavorful braising liquid.
5. Return the Short Ribs to the Pan: Carefully place the seared short ribs back into the pan, nestling them in the liquid and aromatics. Make sure the liquid covers the ribs partially, but not fully submerging them.
6. Cover and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Allow the short ribs to simmer gently for 2-3 hours, or until they become tender. Check the ribs occasionally and add more liquid if needed to prevent them from drying out.

Braising the short ribs slowly and gently over low heat allows the collagen in the meat to break down, resulting in tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture. As the short ribs simmer, the flavors from the aromatics and braising liquid will infuse into the meat, creating a delicious and savory dish.

While the short ribs are simmering, it’s important to monitor the cooking process to ensure they are cooking to perfection.

After searing the short ribs, add a liquid (such as beef broth or red wine) to the pot and cover with a lid. Simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours until the meat is tender. This will help to create a flavorful and tender dish.

Monitoring the Cooking Process

As the short ribs braise on the stovetop, it’s important to monitor the cooking process to ensure that they are cooking evenly and reaching the desired level of tenderness. Here are some tips for effectively monitoring the cooking process:

1. Check the Temperature: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the short ribs. The ideal temperature for fully cooked short ribs is around 195°F (90°C).
2. Adjust the Heat: If the liquid is simmering too vigorously and reducing too quickly, lower the heat slightly to maintain a gentle simmer. This will prevent the liquid from evaporating too quickly, ensuring that the short ribs stay moist during the cooking process.
3. Add Liquid if Needed: If you notice that the liquid is reducing too rapidly and there isn’t enough to cover the short ribs, add more liquid, such as broth or wine, to maintain the desired level of liquid in the pan. This will prevent the ribs from drying out.
4. Skim off Excess Fat: While the short ribs are cooking, you may notice that some fat rises to the surface of the liquid. Use a spoon or ladle to skim off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
5. Baste the Short Ribs: Every once in a while, use a spoon to baste the short ribs with the braising liquid. This will help to keep the meat moist and ensure an even distribution of flavors.
6. Test for Tenderness: After a couple of hours of cooking, test the tenderness of the short ribs by inserting a fork or a skewer into the meat. If it goes in easily and the meat pulls apart effortlessly, the short ribs are done. If they are still tough, continue cooking for another 30 minutes to an hour and test again.

By closely monitoring the cooking process, you can ensure that the short ribs are cooked to perfection and achieve the desired level of tenderness. Once the short ribs are cooked to your satisfaction, it’s time to add the finishing touches.

Checking the Doneness

Checking the doneness of the short ribs is crucial to ensure that they are cooked to perfection. While braising the short ribs on the stovetop, you can use a few methods to determine if they are done to your liking:

1. Fork Test: Gently insert a fork into the meat and twist it slightly. If the fork easily goes into the meat and comes out without much resistance, the short ribs are likely tender and cooked to perfection.
2. Temperature Check: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the short ribs. The ideal temperature for fully cooked short ribs is around 195°F (90°C).
3. Visual Inspection: Take a close look at the short ribs. Well-cooked short ribs will have pulled back from the bones and will be very tender. The meat should easily separate from the bone with minimal effort.

Remember that short ribs can vary in size and thickness, so the cooking time may vary as well. It’s important to rely on these methods of checking doneness rather than relying solely on cooking time.

If your short ribs are not yet done, continue braising them for another 30 minutes to an hour, or until they reach the desired level of tenderness. Once they are cooked to perfection, it’s time to add the finishing touches to elevate their flavor even more.

Finishing Touches

Adding some final touches to your cooked short ribs can take them from delicious to extraordinary. Here are a few finishing touches that will enhance the flavor and presentation of your dish:

• Skim off Excess Fat: Before serving the short ribs, skim off any excess fat that may have accumulated on the surface of the braising liquid. This will prevent the dish from being overly greasy.
• Reduce the Braising Liquid: If desired, you can further enhance the flavor of the short ribs by reducing the braising liquid. Remove the short ribs from the pan and set them aside. Increase the heat to medium-high and simmer the liquid until it thickens and intensifies in flavor. Drizzle this reduced sauce over the short ribs for added depth and richness.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, or chives, over the short ribs before serving. Not only will this add a pop of color, but it will also brighten the flavors of the dish.
• Add a Sauce or Glaze: For an extra touch of decadence, consider brushing the short ribs with a flavorful glaze or sauce before serving. Whether it’s a tangy barbecue sauce, a savory red wine reduction, or a luscious gravy made from the braising liquid, these additions will add a burst of flavor to your dish.
• Serve with Delicious Sides: Short ribs pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The sides will complement the rich flavors of the short ribs and create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

By adding these finishing touches, you can elevate the flavor and presentation of your cooked short ribs. Now it’s time to plate up and serve your culinary masterpiece.

Serving the Short Ribs

After all the time and effort you’ve put into cooking the perfect short ribs on the stovetop, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Here are some tips on how to serve the short ribs to impress your guests:

• Plating: Carefully transfer the short ribs to a serving platter or individual plates. Arrange them in an appealing manner, making sure to show off their succulent texture and rich color.
• Sauce and Glaze: If you reduced the braising liquid, drizzle some of the flavorful sauce or glaze over the short ribs. This will not only enhance the taste but also provide a beautiful glossy finish.
• Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives, over the short ribs to add a burst of freshness and visual appeal.
• Sides: Serve the short ribs alongside delicious sides that complement their rich flavor. Consider options like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, creamy polenta, or a crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
• Wine Pairing: Pair your short ribs with a rich red wine that complements the robust flavors of the dish. A full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Syrah can be excellent choices to enhance the dining experience.
• Serving Etiquette: Provide your guests with the necessary utensils, such as a steak knife and fork, to easily cut through and enjoy the tender short ribs. Encourage them to savor each bite and appreciate the flavors and textures that you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

Serving the short ribs with these considerations in mind will not only make them visually appealing but will also ensure a delightful dining experience for everyone at the table. Now all that’s left to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor.

Conclusion

Cooking short ribs on the stovetop is a rewarding and flavorful culinary adventure. Armed with the right techniques and ingredients, you can create a dish that is tender, succulent, and impressive. Whether you choose to braise them in a flavorful liquid or season them with your favorite spices, the result will be an unforgettable meal that will satisfy even the most discerning meat lover.

Remember to choose the right cut of short ribs, prepare and season them properly, and braise them to perfection. Monitor the cooking process, check for doneness, and add your own finishing touches to elevate the flavors and presentation. Finally, serve the short ribs with delicious sides, a complementary wine, and an inviting ambiance.

Cooking short ribs on the stovetop allows for precise temperature control, ensuring tender and flavorful results. The slow braising process allows the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth tender and allows the flavors to develop and intensify. The aromas that fill your kitchen will be enticing, and the end result will be a dish that will impress both family and friends.

So, gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and embark on this divine culinary journey. Prepare to be rewarded with a plate full of perfectly cooked short ribs that will surely become a favorite dish in your repertoire. Enjoy the delicious flavors, the tender meat, and the joy that comes from creating a gourmet meal right in your own kitchen.

Now, it’s time to don your apron, fire up the stove, and start cooking your mouthwatering short ribs. Happy cooking!