There’s a little thrill that comes from transforming classic comfort food into something unexpected, isn’t there? When I first experimented with this Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs recipe, I was seeking to breathe new life into my weeknight dinners and was amazed at how effortlessly these ribs came together. Imagine falling apart, tender meat soaked in a silky, flavorful sauce that dances on your palate, blending the complexities of five spice powder and the gentle heat of gochujang.
With minimal effort and a rich depth of flavor, this dish is perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day. Picture serving it over fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta—each bite brings comfort and delight, elevating a humble weekday meal to something genuinely special. Let’s dive into the magic of these Asian-inspired ribs that promise to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!
Why are Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs irresistible?
Irresistible Flavors: This recipe stunningly combines Asian spices like five spice powder and gochujang, creating a medley of taste that’s both comforting and unique. Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and rich flavors, even novice cooks can shine in the kitchen. Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Versatile Pairings: Serve over fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting experience. Perfect Make-Ahead Option: The flavors deepen overnight, making it a fabulous choice for meal prep. Treat yourself to a gourmet experience without the hassle!
Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs Ingredients
For the Ribs
• Beef Short Ribs – Choose English cut for thick, meaty pieces that provide a rich flavor and texture.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
For the Sauce
• Five Spice Powder (2 tbsp) – Adds aromatic warmth and complexity, making the sauce beautifully flavorful.
• Gochujang Paste (3 tbsp) – Brings a delightful heat and depth; substitute with sriracha if you’re looking for a milder kick.
• Fish Sauce (1 tbsp) – Introduces umami, enriching the sauce; soy sauce works as a vegetarian alternative.
• Coconut Milk (1 ¼ cups) – Creates a creamy, sweet sauce; opt for full-fat for the best texture and flavor.
• Beef Broth (2 ½ cups) – Adds depth to the braising liquid; use vegetable broth for a lighter version.
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Thickens the sauce beautifully; arrowroot powder is a great alternative if needed.
Your Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs journey begins here! Preparing your ingredients will make the cooking process smooth and delightful.
How to Make Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs
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Prep the Ribs:
Begin by seasoning the beef short ribs generously with kosher salt and black pepper. This not only boosts the flavor but also sets the stage for a delightful dining experience. -
Sear the Ribs:
Heat a heavy pot over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, brown the ribs on all sides until they are beautifully caramelized, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step develops the deep flavors you crave. -
Create Sauce:
After searing, remove the ribs and deglaze the pot with a bit of beef broth, scraping up those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Stir in gochujang, fish sauce, five spice powder, and coconut milk, ensuring everything is well combined. -
Braise:
Return the ribs to the pot, pour in the remaining beef broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and braise for about 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and practically falling off the bone. -
Thicken Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to form a slurry. Add this to the pot and cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. -
Serve:
Carefully plate the tender ribs and pour that luscious sauce over the top. Serve the dish over fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, allowing those flavors to shine through.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an added pop of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs
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Proper Searing: Ensure ribs are well-browned on all sides; this builds essential flavor depth for your sauce, enhancing the final dish.
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Check for Tenderness: The ribs should be fork-tender when done. If they aren’t easily pulling away from the bone, give them a bit more time to braise.
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Balance the Heat: Adjust the amount of gochujang to suit your spice preference. Remember, a little goes a long way in creating a flavorful experience.
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Make Ahead: Prepare your Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs a day in advance; refrigerate overnight for flavors to deepen and develop beautifully.
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Thickening Tips: If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, make sure to stir the cornstarch slurry well before adding it to the pot.
Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with these tasty twists and substitutions that will enhance the experience.
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Pork Ribs: Swap short ribs for pork ribs for a different flavor profile that’s just as tender and succulent.
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Vegetarian Option: Use hearty mushrooms like portobello or king oyster as a base, utilizing vegetable broth and soy sauce for umami.
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Spicy Kick: Add fresh or dried chili peppers to the sauce for an extra layer of heat that will awaken your taste buds.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of sesame oil into the sauce for a warm, nutty aroma that complements the rich creaminess.
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Vegetable Add-Ins: Toss in chopped carrots or cubed sweet potatoes during the braising for added nutrition and delightful sweetness.
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Coconut Milk Twist: For a lighter version, replace half the coconut milk with almond milk to retain creaminess without the richness.
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Herbal Notes: Fresh herbs such as cilantro or Thai basil can be sprinkled over the finished dish to elevate the freshness and flavor profile.
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Sweetness Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a subtle sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory elements.
Each variation invites you to explore and enjoy these flavors in a new and exciting way!
Make Ahead Options
These Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs are a fantastic meal prep option that saves time and hassle during your busy week! You can prepare the ribs and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season the ribs, sear them, and create the sauce as directed. Once assembled, let the dish cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat gently on the stove until warmed through and fork-tender. To maintain that rich flavor and creamy texture, avoid boiling the reheated dish. Enjoy restaurant-quality results without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs?
Creating a delightful meal means harmonizing flavors and textures that complement each other perfectly.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, buttery mash absorbs the luscious sauce, making each bite pure bliss.
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Creamy Polenta: This dish’s smooth texture pairs beautifully with the ribs, providing a comforting base to soak up all that flavor.
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Steamed Bok Choy: The crisp, fresh greens balance the richness of the ribs, adding brightness to your plate.
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Sesame Ginger Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with sesame oil and ginger bring a zesty crunch to your meal, enhancing the Asian flavor profile.
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Fragrant Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice offers a subtly floral note that elevates the overall experience while soaking up the savory sauce.
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Spicy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with a kick helps cleanse the palate and adds a delightful, crunchy contrast to the tender meat.
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Chilled Sake: Pair your meal with a glass of chilled sake, enhancing the flavors of the dish and creating a celebratory feel.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy delight rounds off your dinner beautifully, bringing a touch of sweetness after a savory feast.
How to Store and Freeze Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs
Fridge: Store the ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the braised ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of beef broth to restore moisture if needed.
Make-Ahead: These Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs can be cooked a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight before serving.
Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs Recipe FAQs
What type of beef short ribs should I use?
Opt for English cut beef short ribs for thick, meaty pieces that provide rich flavor and texture. They have the perfect amount of fat, which melts during braising, enhancing the overall taste!
How should I store my Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs?
Store the ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend allowing the ribs to cool completely before sealing to maintain the best texture and flavor!
Can I freeze my braised short ribs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool before freezing. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, and gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth as needed to restore moisture.
How do I know when the ribs are done cooking?
When done, the ribs should be fork-tender and almost falling off the bone. To check, insert a fork into the meat; it should pull away easily. If they’re still tough, don’t hesitate to continue braising for an additional 30 minutes or so.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! This recipe is gluten-free based on the ingredients, but double-check your fish sauce and any alternative sauces for gluten. If you have any allergies, you can substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian option. Always verify ingredient labels to accommodate your needs.
Can I tweak the spice level of this dish?
Very! You can adjust the heat by using less gochujang or incorporating a milder substitute like sriracha. If you enjoy a kick, you can even add fresh chilies or red pepper flakes. Remember, the more the merrier when it comes to flavors, so feel free to experiment!
Savory Asian-Inspired Creamy Braised Short Ribs Unleashed
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the beef short ribs generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Heat a heavy pot over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Brown the ribs on all sides for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove the ribs and deglaze the pot with beef broth, scraping up flavorful bits. Stir in gochujang, fish sauce, five spice powder, and coconut milk.
- Return the ribs, add remaining beef broth, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and braise for about 3 hours until fork-tender.
- Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry and add to the pot. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Plate the ribs, pour sauce over the top, and serve over mashed potatoes or polenta.