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Korean Beef Short Ribs Recipe

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3.8 from 90 reviews

Korean Beef Short Ribs are succulent, flavorful ribs marinated in a sweet and savory mixture featuring Asian pear, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This recipe delivers tender, charred meat with a perfect balance of umami and sweetness, ideal for a quick stovetop meal packed with authentic Korean-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Marinade:

  • 1 medium Asian pear (or apple; peeled and cored)
  • 1 medium onion (quartered)
  • 6-8 cloves garlic
  • 1 inch ginger (peeled)
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Main Ingredient:

  • 3 pounds beef short ribs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a food processor, combine the Asian pear, onion, garlic, and ginger. Puree until smooth. For a smoother texture, optionally strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove pulp.
  2. Mix the Marinade: Transfer the pureed mixture to a medium bowl. Stir in the soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, and ground black pepper until fully combined.
  3. Marinate the Ribs: Place the beef short ribs into a large Ziplock bag, then pour the marinade over them. Remove as much air as possible from the bag and seal tightly. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour; preferably overnight to maximize flavor and tenderness.
  4. Cook the Ribs: Heat a greased skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the ribs from the marinade and cook them in the skillet, browning each side for 1-2 minutes until a charred crust forms and the exterior is caramelized.

Notes

  • For best results, marinate the beef ribs overnight to allow flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
  • Using Asian pear adds natural sweetness and helps tenderize the meat, but an apple can be used as a substitute.
  • Remove pulp from the marinade for a smoother texture and more even coating on the ribs.
  • Cook the ribs quickly over high heat to achieve a flavorful caramelized crust without overcooking the meat.
  • Serve with steamed rice and kimchi for a complete Korean-inspired meal.