
Tender Asian-Style Slow Cooked Beef Ribs
Nutritional value per serving
Calories600kcal
Carbs10gram
Fat35gram
Protein45gram
Ingredients
- Beef short ribs (bone-in, well-marbled) - choose ribs with nice marbling for tenderness and flavor1.5 kg
- Soy sauce (preferably low sodium) - adds umami and saltiness100 ml
- Hoisin sauce - adds sweetness and depth50 ml
- Brown sugar - balances savory and adds caramel notes2 tbsp
- Garlic cloves (fresh, peeled and minced) - key aromatic4 pieces
- Fresh ginger (peeled and minced) - adds warmth and zing2 tbsp
- Rice wine or dry sherry - helps tenderize and flavor50 ml
- Sesame oil - for nutty aroma1 tbsp
- Green onions (scallions, chopped) - for garnish2 pieces
- Sesame seeds (toasted, for garnish)1 tbsp
- Water or beef broth - to add moisture during cooking200 ml
- Black pepper (freshly ground) - to tasteto taste n/a

This recipe guides you through making tender, juicy, and aromatic Asian-style slow cooked beef ribs, perfect for a comforting meal. Using simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a few pantry staples, you will have luscious ribs after slow cooking for several hours. The total estimated cost of ingredients is approximately $15 / €14 / £12 / ₹1,200. Each serving contains approximately 600 kcal, with balanced protein and fats. This dish suits a standard omnivorous diet and is of medium complexity, taking about 8 hours total including slow cooking time.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Beef Ribs and Marinade
1Trim excess fat from the beef ribs if desired. Mix together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice wine, and sesame oil in a bowl to create the marinade. Coat the ribs thoroughly with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator to absorb flavors.
Sear the Beef Ribs
2Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the ribs and sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This step locks in juices and adds extra flavor and color.
Prepare for Slow Cooking
3Transfer the seared ribs to your slow cooker insert. Pour any remaining marinade over the ribs. Add water or beef broth to provide moisture and prevent drying. This ensures they cook evenly and stay tender.
Slow Cook the Ribs
4Cover and cook on low heat setting for 6 to 7 hours. Alternatively, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. The ribs should be very tender, with meat easily falling off the bone. The safe internal temperature for beef ribs should reach at least 63°C (145°F) for medium rare, but for slow-cooked ribs, higher temperature and prolonged cooking ensures tenderness and safety.
Check for Doneness and Safety
5Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the beef ribs reaches at least 63°C (145°F). For very tender slow-cooked ribs, the temperature will typically be higher, ensuring food safety. Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and plates for raw and cooked ribs.
Serve and Garnish
6Carefully remove ribs from the slow cooker. Optionally, strain and reduce the remaining liquid to make a flavorful sauce. Garnish ribs with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving. This adds freshness and pleasing texture.
Cooking Tips
1If you don't have hoisin sauce, you can substitute with a mixture of soy sauce and a small amount of honey or molasses.
2Make sure to coat ribs well with marinade and marinate in the fridge to maximize flavor penetration.
3Searing ribs before slow cooking enhances flavor significantly but can be skipped if in a hurry.
4Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
5Leftover ribs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker or crockpot
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Meat thermometer
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Shopping List
- [ ] Beef short ribs (~1.5 kg, $12) - Choose ribs with good marbling for tenderness.
- [ ] Soy sauce (100 ml, $0.50) - Opt for low sodium.
- [ ] Hoisin sauce (50 ml, $1) - If unavailable, use soy sauce + honey.
- [ ] Brown sugar (2 tbsp, $0.20) - Essential for balancing flavors.
- [ ] Garlic (4 cloves, $0.20) - Fresh is best, avoid pre-minced if possible.
- [ ] Fresh ginger (55 g, enough for 2 tbsp minced, $0.50) - Pick firm, smooth skin.
- [ ] Rice wine or dry sherry (50 ml, $1) - Adds authentic flavor.
- [ ] Sesame oil (1 tbsp, $0.30) - Use for flavor, a little goes a long way.
- [ ] Green onions (2 pieces, $0.30) - Fresh and crisp for garnish.
- [ ] Sesame seeds (1 tbsp, $0.20) - Toast before using for best flavor.
- [ ] Water or beef broth (200 ml, $0.50 if broth) - Adds cooking liquid.
- [ ] Black pepper (to taste, $0.10) - Freshly ground preferred.
Total cost approximately $16.80
FAQ
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance and keep it refrigerated for deeper flavors.
How do I know when the ribs are safe to eat?
The internal temperature should reach at least 63°C (145°F). For slow cooked ribs that are very tender, they typically reach higher internal temperatures, ensuring safety.
Can I use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time. Cook at high pressure for about 45 minutes, then release pressure naturally.
What if I don't have hoisin sauce?
You can substitute hoisin sauce with a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of honey or molasses for sweetness.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.