The Ultimate Guide to Delicious Flanken Short Ribs

Flanken short ribs, also known as short plate ribs, offer a unique culinary experience. Their thin, wide cut delivers incredibly flavorful, tender meat with a satisfying chew. This comprehensive guide will walk you through preparing succulent flanken short ribs, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Understanding Flanken Short Ribs

Before we dive into the recipe, let's understand what makes flanken short ribs special. Unlike other cuts, flanken ribs are sliced across the bone, resulting in a thinner, wider piece of meat. This cut maximizes surface area, leading to exceptional browning and a deeply flavorful outcome. They cook relatively quickly compared to other rib cuts, making them a fantastic option for a weeknight meal.

Choosing the Perfect Flanken Short Ribs

Selecting high-quality flanken short ribs is crucial for a delicious final product. Look for ribs with good marbling – this indicates fat content, translating to juicy, tender meat. The color should be a rich, deep red, and the meat should feel firm to the touch. Avoid ribs with excessive discoloration or a slimy texture.

The Ultimate Flanken Short Rib Recipe

This recipe focuses on a simple yet flavorful approach, highlighting the natural deliciousness of the flanken ribs.

Yields: 4-6 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 45-60 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs flanken short ribs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor

Equipment:

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ribs: Pat the flanken short ribs dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a good sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
2. Sear the ribs: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step develops a rich crust and adds depth of flavor.
3. Sauté aromatics: Remove the ribs from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Create the braising liquid: Stir in the beef broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar. If using, add the Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Braising: Return the ribs to the skillet, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet tightly and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C).
6. Cook to tender perfection: Braise for 45-60 minutes, or until the ribs are incredibly tender and easily pull apart. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your ribs and your oven. Check for doneness by gently probing with a fork.
7. Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the ribs rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender meat. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

These flavorful flanken short ribs are incredibly versatile. Consider these serving suggestions:

• On their own: The ribs are delicious enough to stand on their own, accompanied by a simple side salad.
• With rice: Serve them over steamed rice to soak up all the delicious braising liquid.
• In tacos or burritos: Shred the meat and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos for a flavorful twist.
• With sides: Pair them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Tips for Success

• Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the ribs to allow for proper browning. Work in batches if necessary.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add more chili powder for extra heat or experiment with other spices like garlic powder or onion powder.
• Use a meat thermometer: For precise cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 190°F (88°C) for food safety.

This detailed guide provides everything you need to create mouthwatering flanken short ribs. Remember to adjust the recipe to your preference and enjoy the delicious results!