Cooking BBQ Beef Short Ribs on the Stove: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to BBQ beef short ribs, most people think of slow-cooking them in a smoker or grill. However, you can achieve tender and deliciously flavorful short ribs on your stovetop with the right techniques and ingredients. In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to cook BBQ beef short ribs on the stove.

Understanding Beef Short Ribs

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the anatomy of beef short ribs. Short ribs are a cut of beef that comes from the ribcage area, typically from the 6th to the 10th ribs. They consist of a thick layer of meat, fat, and connective tissue, which makes them perfect for slow-cooking.

There are two main types of short ribs: English-style and flanken-style. English-style short ribs are cut into individual portions, with the meat and bone separated. Flanken-style short ribs, on the other hand, are cut into thin strips, with the meat and bone still attached.

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

For stovetop cooking, it’s best to use English-style short ribs. Look for ribs that are meaty and have a good balance of fat and lean meat. You can ask your butcher to trim any excess fat, if needed.

Preparing the Short Ribs

Before cooking the short ribs, you’ll need to prepare them by removing any excess fat and seasoning them with a dry rub.

Removing Excess Fat

Use a sharp knife to remove any excess fat from the short ribs. You can also use kitchen shears to trim any excess fat around the bones.

Applying a Dry Rub

In a small bowl, mix together a dry rub consisting of:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper

Apply the dry rub evenly to both sides of the short ribs, making sure to coat them thoroughly.

Cooking the Short Ribs

Now that the short ribs are prepared, it’s time to cook them. You’ll need a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid to cook the short ribs.

Browning the Short Ribs

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs until they’re browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the short ribs from the pot and set them aside.

Softening the Connective Tissue

Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pot and reduce the heat to medium. Add 1 onion, diced, and cook until it’s softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add 2 cloves of garlic, minced, and cook for an additional minute.

Add 1 cup of beef broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the broth to a simmer and cook until it’s reduced by half, about 5 minutes.

Adding the Short Ribs and BBQ Sauce

Add the browned short ribs back to the pot, along with 1 cup of BBQ sauce. You can use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own using a combination of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.

Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Cook the short ribs at 300°F (150°C) for 2 1/2 hours, or until they’re tender and falling off the bone.

Finishing the Short Ribs

Remove the pot from the oven and carefully remove the short ribs from the sauce. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean saucepan, discarding any solids.

Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat and cook until it’s thickened and reduced, about 10 minutes. Brush the sauce over the short ribs and serve them hot.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you achieve the best results:

• Use a thermometer to ensure the short ribs are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
• If you prefer a spicy BBQ sauce, add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce, such as Frank’s RedHot or Sriracha, to the sauce.
• To add some smokiness to the short ribs, add 1-2 tablespoons of liquid smoke to the sauce.
• Experiment with different types of BBQ sauce, such as Kansas City-style or Carolina-style, to change up the flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking BBQ beef short ribs on the stovetop:

• Not browning the short ribs enough, resulting in a lack of flavor and texture.
• Not cooking the short ribs long enough, resulting in tough and chewy meat.
• Not straining the sauce, resulting in a gritty and unpleasant texture.

Conclusion

Cooking BBQ beef short ribs on the stovetop requires patience, attention to detail, and the right techniques. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to achieve tender and deliciously flavorful short ribs that are sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to experiment with different variations and tips to make the recipe your own.

By following this recipe and using the right ingredients, you’ll be able to create delicious BBQ beef short ribs that are sure to become a favorite in your household.

What are the essential ingredients for cooking BBQ beef short ribs on the stove?

The essential ingredients for cooking BBQ beef short ribs on the stove include beef short ribs, BBQ sauce, olive oil, onions, garlic, salt, and pepper. You may also want to add other aromatics such as carrots and celery to enhance the flavor of the dish. Additionally, you can use beef broth or red wine to add moisture and depth to the sauce.

It’s also important to note that the quality of the ingredients can affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Look for beef short ribs that are meaty and have a good balance of fat and lean meat. Choose a high-quality BBQ sauce that is made with natural ingredients and has a good balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.

How do I prepare the beef short ribs for cooking?

To prepare the beef short ribs for cooking, start by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat or connective tissue from the ribs, and season them with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to enhance the flavor of the ribs.

Next, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs until they are browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the ribs from the pot and set them aside, leaving the drippings behind. This step is important to create a flavorful crust on the ribs and to add depth to the sauce.

How long does it take to cook BBQ beef short ribs on the stove?

The cooking time for BBQ beef short ribs on the stove can vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs, as well as the level of tenderness desired. Generally, it takes about 2-3 hours to cook the ribs on the stove, with about 30 minutes of preparation time and 1-2 hours of cooking time.

It’s also important to note that the ribs should be cooked low and slow to achieve tender and fall-off-the-bone results. You can simmer the ribs in the sauce over low heat for about 1-2 hours, or until they are tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Can I use a slow cooker to cook BBQ beef short ribs?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker to cook BBQ beef short ribs. In fact, a slow cooker is a great way to cook the ribs low and slow, resulting in tender and fall-off-the-bone results. Simply brown the ribs in a skillet, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the sauce and cook on low for 8-10 hours.

Using a slow cooker is also convenient because it allows you to cook the ribs hands-free, while you’re busy with other tasks. Simply set the slow cooker and forget it, and come home to tender and delicious BBQ beef short ribs.

How do I serve BBQ beef short ribs?

BBQ beef short ribs can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preference. You can serve them as a main dish, with the sauce spooned over the top and a side of mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread. You can also serve them as a sandwich, with the ribs piled high on a bun and topped with coleslaw and pickles.

Additionally, you can serve the ribs as an appetizer or snack, with a side of celery sticks or carrot sticks for dipping in the sauce. You can also use the ribs in other dishes, such as salads, wraps, or tacos.

Can I make BBQ beef short ribs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make BBQ beef short ribs ahead of time. In fact, the ribs are often better the next day, after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Simply cook the ribs as directed, then refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to serve.

To reheat the ribs, simply place them in a saucepan with a little bit of sauce and simmer over low heat until they’re heated through. You can also reheat the ribs in the oven, covered with foil, until they’re hot and bubbly.

How do I store leftover BBQ beef short ribs?

Leftover BBQ beef short ribs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. To store the ribs in the refrigerator, simply place them in a covered container and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below.

To freeze the ribs, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and label with the date. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the ribs overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as directed.