For deep, beefy comfort with minimum fuss, go beef short ribs. These meaty, bone-in ribs love low heat and time—the collagen melts, the meat turns spoon-tender, and the cooking liquor reduces to a glossy, stick-to-your-spoon sauce. Braise gently in the oven, set-and-forget in the slow cooker, or smoke them on the BBQ until they’re buttery and rich. They’re show-stoppers on a plate and even better the next day.
Versatile: from red-wine braises to sticky BBQ glazes
Cut details
From the short rib/plate section
Typically supplied English-style (individual ribs, bone-in); flanken-cut available on request
Fresh, never previously frozen (unless stated on pack)
How to cook (quick guide)
Bring to room temp, pat dry, season generously.
Oven braise: Brown well. Add onions, garlic, herbs and stock/ale/red wine. Cover and cook at 150–160°C (fan 130–140°C) for 3½–5 hours until fork-tender.
Slow cooker: Brown first if you can, then cook Low 8–10 hours (or High 5–6 hours).
Smoker/BBQ: 110–120°C with your favourite rub until probe-tender (often when the centre is around 93°C). Wrap when bark is set; rest at least 30–60 mins.
Pressure cooker: Brown; cook 45–70 mins at pressure, natural release. Tip: Chill the braising liquor to lift any set fat, then reduce to a glossy jus.
Serving ideas
Red-wine braised short ribs with buttery mash and greens
Sticky soy–ginger glaze over rice with spring onions and sesame
Smoked short rib platters with pickles, slaw and warm rolls
Ragù: shred the meat into the reduced sauce and toss with pappardelle
Storage & handling
Keep refrigerated below 5°C
Once opened, cook within 1 day
Suitable for home freezing on the day of purchase; defrost in the fridge and use within 24 hours
Do not refreeze once defrosted
FAQs
Are they bone-in? Yes—bone-in for maximum flavour and a richer sauce.
Do I have to brown them first? Highly recommended. A good sear adds flavour and colour to the finished dish.
English or flanken cut? Usually English-style (individual bones). If you need flanken for grills or soups, ask and we’ll do our best.
Can I cook them a day ahead? Absolutely—flavour improves overnight. Chill, remove set fat, and reheat gently until piping hot.