English cut short ribs hit the hot pan with a satisfying sizzle, promising a hearty, comforting meal. The beef slowly braises in a rich mixture of beef stock, balsamic vinegar, and dark molasses, nestled with carrots, onions, garlic, and sprigs of rosemary and thyme until it turns fall apart tender. Each spoonful brings deep, savory warmth and silky vegetables coated in glossy gravy. Serve these english cut short ribs for a cozy family dinner or an easy gathering with friends, and let the aroma of slow cooked goodness draw everyone to the table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This english cut short ribs
- They’re incredibly tender and flavorful, melting in your mouth with every bite.
- Slow-braising brings out rich, deep flavors that will impress your family and friends.
- Perfect for cozy dinners, they create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones.
- Versatile for pairing with various sides, making every meal unique.

english cut short ribs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the English cut short ribs generously with salt and black pepper. Make sure every inch is covered!
- Lightly dredge each rib in flour, shaking off the excess. This will help create a lovely crust.
- Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the ribs on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in vegetable broth to deglaze, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Simmer until reduced by half.
- Return short ribs to the pot, pour in beef stock, and add thyme and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 2½–3 hours, or until the meat is very tender. Patience is key!
- Remove ribs and keep warm. Skim fat from sauce, strain if desired, and serve sauce over the ribs. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 5g |
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious English Cut Short Ribs dish that’s sure to impress!

- 2–3 lbs English cut short ribs – the star of the dish, providing rich flavor
- Salt – to taste, enhances the beef’s natural flavor
- Black pepper – to taste, adds a bit of heat
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour – for dredging the ribs before browning
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil – for searing the ribs
- 1 large onion – diced, for a base of flavor
- 2 carrots – sliced, adds sweetness and color
- 2 celery stalks – sliced, enhances the aromatic profile
- 4 garlic cloves – minced, for extra flavor
- 2 tbsp tomato paste – for depth of flavor
- 1 cup beef broth – replaces red wine for richness
- 3 cups beef stock – the braising liquid, full of flavor
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme – for a touch of freshness
- 1 bay leaf – for added aroma
How to Make English Cut Short Ribs
This melt-in-your-mouth English cut short ribs recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner. With a preparation time of 20 minutes and a cooking time of 2½ to 3 hours, you’ll have tender, flavorful beef that’s worth the wait. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Season the Ribs
Season the English cut short ribs generously with salt and black pepper. Make sure every inch is covered!
Step 2: Dredge in Flour
Lightly dredge each rib in flour, shaking off the excess. This will help create a lovely crust.
Step 3: Brown the Ribs
Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the ribs on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in vegetable broth to deglaze, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Simmer until reduced by half.
Step 6: Add the Ribs Back
Return short ribs to the pot, pour in beef stock, and add thyme and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
Step 7: Slow Cook
Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 2½–3 hours, or until the meat is very tender. Patience is key!
Step 8: Serve
Remove ribs and keep warm. Skim fat from sauce, strain if desired, and serve sauce over the ribs. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 180 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 200 minutes |
| Dietary | Beef |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | With rich sauce over the ribs! |
Pro Tips for Making English Cut Short Ribs
- Pat the ribs dry before seasoning for a better crust.
- Brown the ribs in batches to avoid steaming.
- Add beef broth or vegetable broth for depth of flavor.
- Let the ribs rest after cooking for juicier meat.
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.
How to Serve this english cut short ribs
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of flavor.
- Accompany with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Enjoy with a refreshing side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.
- For a twist, serve in tacos with avocado and salsa for a fun fusion dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your English cut short ribs later is easy!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the short ribs to cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Cool the short ribs completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a covered pot on low heat.
- Add a splash of beef broth or water to keep moist.
- Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. How do you prepare English cut short ribs?
To prepare English cut short ribs, start by seasoning the meat generously with salt and pepper. Sear the ribs in a hot skillet until browned on all sides. Then, transfer them to a slow cooker or a Dutch oven. Add aromatics like onions, garlic, and carrots, along with beef broth or a non-alcoholic substitute like apple cider vinegar for acidity. Cover and cook on low heat for several hours until the meat is tender and falls off the bone. This slow-braising method ensures maximum flavor and tenderness!
2. What do English cut short ribs look like?
English cut short ribs are typically cut from the chuck section of the cow and are characterized by their rectangular shape and a good amount of marbling. They usually have a thick layer of meat on top of a bone, making them quite meaty and flavorful. The meat is often about 2-3 inches long and can be quite thick, which is perfect for slow cooking to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
3. How many English cut short ribs per person?
When serving English cut short ribs, a good rule of thumb is to plan for about 1 to 2 ribs per person, depending on the size of the ribs and the appetite of your guests. Since they are rich and hearty, you might find that one rib is sufficient for a lighter meal, while two ribs may be ideal for a more substantial dinner. Pair them with sides to round out the meal!
4. Are English cut ribs good for grilling?
While English cut short ribs are traditionally braised or slow-cooked, they can also be grilled, but it requires a bit of care. To grill them, it’s best to marinate the ribs first to enhance their flavor and tenderness. Cook them over indirect heat to avoid burning, and finish them with a quick sear on high heat for a nice char. Just keep in mind that they may not be as tender as when slow-braised, but they can still be delicious!
Final Thoughts
Get ready to savor the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of English cut short ribs! This easy slow-braised recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Gather your loved ones, share stories, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a home-cooked feast. You’ll be amazed at how rewarding it is to create such deliciousness!

