Beef Short Rib Recipe Slow Cooker

I find there’s nothing quite as comforting as a hearty meal waiting after a busy day, and this beef short rib recipe slow cooker delivers just that.

Imagine coming home to fall-off-the-bone tender beef short ribs, infused with a sticky date and tamarind glaze, their rich aroma filling your kitchen. This delicious beef short rib recipe slow cooker is perfect for busy parents, comfort food lovers, and anyone looking for easy dinner ideas that pack incredible flavor. My family certainly loves it!

Ingredients & Smarter Substitutes

Core Ingredients (for 6-8 servings)

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) boneless beef short ribs: Opt for well-marbled cuts for the most tender outcome.
• 30 mL (2 tablespoons) vegetable oil: For searing (or use avocado oil for a neutral, high-heat option).
• 1 large (approx. 200g) yellow onion, chopped: Provides a sweet aromatic base.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for deep flavor.
• 25 g (1 inch piece) fresh ginger, grated: Adds a warm, zesty note.
• 10 g (2 teaspoons) fine sea salt: Enhances all flavors.
• 2.5 g (0.5 teaspoon) freshly ground black pepper: For a touch of spice.
• 5 g (1 teaspoon) Chinese five-spice powder: Adds complex, aromatic warmth.
• 700 mL (3 cups) vegetable or suitable beef broth: Forms the braising liquid.
• 60 mL (4 tablespoons) gluten-free tamari: For rich umami (or use regular soy sauce if not gluten-free).
• 30 mL (2 tablespoons) apple cider vinegar: Balances richness with a bright tang.
• 100 g (approx. 6-8 large) pitted Medjool dates: Adds natural sweetness and body to the glaze.
• 45 g (3 tablespoons) tamarind paste: Provides a unique sweet-sour complexity.
• 15 g (1 tablespoon) cornstarch: To thicken the glaze.
• 30 mL (2 tablespoons) cold water: To create a cornstarch slurry.
• 5 g (1 teaspoon) toasted sesame seeds, for garnish: Adds texture and nutty flavor.
• 15 g (1/4 cup) fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish: For freshness and color.

Better Versions

Opt for grass-fed short ribs for richer flavor and nutrients, choosing organic vegetables and low-sodium, high-quality beef broth when possible.

Substitutions for Popular Diets

• Keto/Low-Carb: Serve this rich beef short rib recipe slow cooker with cauliflower mash instead of typical starches.
• Paleo/Whole30: Ensure your broth has no added sugar or soy; use coconut aminos instead of tamari.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is designed to be naturally gluten-free with certified tamari and broth.

Seasonality & Freshness

Fresh cilantro offers a superior aroma, enhancing the final dish. Select well-marbled beef short ribs for the most tender, melt-in-your-mouth outcome.

Optional (plan-ahead): If you’re shopping for the week, I put this into a 4-Week Meal Plan + Grocery Lists so dinner’s already decided before your day gets busy.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep & Sear Ribs (15 min prep, 10 min sear)

Pat the beef short ribs very dry with paper towels; this helps them sear better. Season generously on all sides with salt, black pepper, and five-spice powder. Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed oven-safe pot or skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Sear the short ribs in batches until deeply browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, forming a flavorful crust. Remove the ribs and set aside, reserving the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics (8 min)

Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same pot and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, filling your kitchen with wonderful aromas.

Step 3: Assemble Slow Cooker (5 min)

Return the seared short ribs to the pot. Add the broth, gluten-free tamari, apple cider vinegar, and pitted Medjool dates. Ensure the ribs are mostly submerged in the liquid so they braise evenly.

Step 4: Slow Cook (6-8 hours LOW, 3-4 hours HIGH)

Transfer the pot to a slow cooker insert or cover tightly if using an oven-safe pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef short ribs are incredibly tender and fall apart easily with a fork, their texture yielding to the gentlest touch. This long, slow cook is key for a perfect beef short rib recipe slow cooker.

Step 5: Prepare Glaze (15 min)

Carefully remove the cooked short ribs from the slow cooker and transfer them to a clean plate, tenting with foil to keep warm. Skim any excess fat from the surface of the braising liquid. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a medium saucepan, pressing on the solids (including the softened dates) to extract maximum flavor; discard the solids. Bring the strained liquid to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced by about one-third, concentrating its rich flavors. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Stir the tamarind paste into the simmering liquid until fully dissolved. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue to simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to a glossy, syrupy consistency, about 2-3 minutes. If your glaze isn’t thickening, allow it to reduce a bit longer over medium heat before adding the slurry.

Step 6: Coat & Serve (10 min)

Return the short ribs to the glossy glaze, gently turning them to coat thoroughly. Allow them to warm through in the sauce for a few minutes. To serve, arrange the glazed short ribs on a plate, drizzling any remaining Sticky Date & Tamarind Glaze generously over them. Finish by sprinkling with toasted sesame seeds and chopped fresh cilantro for color and a burst of freshness.

Variations for Appliances

• Instant Pot: Use Sauté mode for searing and aromatics. Pressure Cook on High for 45-60 minutes with natural release.
• Oven Braise: Use a Dutch oven. Sear ribs, sauté aromatics, then add liquids. Cover and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours until tender.

Troubleshooting

• Ribs not tender? If your beef short ribs are tough, they simply need more time to cook. The connective tissue requires a long, slow cook to break down.
• Sauce too thin? After removing the ribs, simmer the braising liquid on the stovetop to reduce and concentrate flavors further, or whisk in a bit more cornstarch slurry.

Best Serving Situations

Occasions

This beef short rib recipe slow cooker excels for comforting weeknight family dinners, cozy Sunday meals, or impressive potlucks.

Pairings

• Classic: Creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy polenta, or egg noodles.
• Healthy: Cauliflower mash, roasted root vegetables, steamed green beans.
• Garnish & Drinks: Fresh parsley, chives, or a robust red wine.

Storage & Reheating Guidance

• Storage: Refrigerate cooled short ribs and sauce in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in individual or family-sized portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Nutrition & Lifestyle Gains

Quick Benefits

• Protein-Rich: An excellent source of high-quality protein, this dish supports satiety and muscle health.
• Balanced Meal: Easily paired with a variety of vegetables and starches for a complete, nutritious meal.
• Family-Friendly: A universally loved dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table.

Natural Integrations

Searching for healthy dinner recipes that are flavorful and easy? This beef short rib recipe slow cooker is perfect for high-protein, low-carb friendly meals, fitting a healthy eating lifestyle.

Fit into Health Trends

• Keto/Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower mash or sautéed greens instead of starchy sides.
• Paleo/Whole30: Ensure all liquid ingredients are compliant, without added sugars or soy.

Budget & Meal Planning Perks

Cost Per Serving

Preparing this beef short rib recipe slow cooker at home is significantly more cost-effective than restaurant versions, often costing a fraction of the price. Look for sales on short ribs for extra savings.

Time Efficiency

With only about 30 minutes of hands-on time, this recipe offers passive cooking, freeing up your evening for other tasks. It’s one of my go-to easy dinner ideas for busy nights.

Batch Cooking

This recipe is ideal for batch cooking. Double the recipe, freeze portions, and enjoy delicious, homemade meals throughout the week for efficient meal prepping.

Ingredient Sourcing & Online Shopping

Best Places to Buy Beef Short Ribs

• Local Butcher: For premium quality and specific cuts.
• Supermarkets: Widely available; look for well-marbled options.
• Online Meat Delivery: Services like ButcherBox offer convenience and quality.

Fresh vs Frozen vs Packaged

Fresh short ribs are preferred for texture and flavor. Frozen can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed before searing. Pre-chopped mirepoix (onion, carrots, celery) saves valuable prep time.

Online Services

Utilize grocery delivery services (Instacart, Amazon Fresh) or organic subscription boxes (Thrive Market) for convenience in sourcing ingredients directly to your door.

Expert Adjustments & Hacks

Chef Tricks for Flavor & Texture

• Deep Browning: Don’t rush searing the short ribs; a dark crust equals deep flavor.
• Umami Boost: A dash of balsamic vinegar can deepen the richness of the sauce.
• Skim Fat: For a lighter sauce, skim excess fat after cooking, or chill overnight to easily remove solidified fat.

Kid-Friendly vs Gourmet Adjustments

For a kid-friendly twist, I often shred the beef and serve it over pasta or rice with a simpler sauce. For a gourmet touch, a splash of truffle oil or fresh gremolata elevates the dish beautifully.

Allergy-Conscious Substitutions

• Dairy-Free/Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally free of dairy and nuts.
• Soy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of Worcestershire sauce for a soy-free option.

FAQs

Can this beef short rib recipe slow cooker be made ahead for weekly meal prep?

Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep! The flavors often deepen overnight, and it reheats beautifully for easy lunches or dinners. Store cooled ribs and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

What’s the best type of beef short rib to use for slow cooking?

Both bone-in and boneless short ribs work wonderfully for this slow cooker recipe. Bone-in cuts often impart a richer flavor due to the bone marrow, while boneless options are generally easier to eat and shred. Always choose well-marbled cuts for the most tender results.

How do I thicken the sauce from slow cooker short ribs?

To thicken the sauce from your slow cooker beef short ribs, remove the cooked ribs and transfer the liquid to a saucepan. Simmer to reduce it, or create a cornstarch slurry by whisking 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir it into the simmering sauce until thickened to your liking.

Is a beef short rib recipe slow cooker a good option for weight loss?

When paired with low-carb, high-fiber sides like cauliflower mash or sautéed greens, a beef short rib recipe slow cooker can certainly be part of a weight loss strategy. It provides excellent high-quality protein, which helps with satiety and supports muscle health, making for a healthy dinner.

Why are my slow cooker short ribs still tough after cooking?

If your slow cooker short ribs are still tough, they simply need more cooking time. Short ribs contain a lot of connective tissue that requires a long, slow braise to completely break down, resulting in fork-tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef. Just keep cooking them until they are easily shredded with a fork.

Where can I find high-quality beef short ribs online?

Finding high-quality beef short ribs online is easy these days. I often check specialty butchers or organic meat delivery services like ButcherBox for grass-fed options. Trusted online grocery stores also carry good selections, making it convenient to source premium ingredients for this beef short rib recipe slow cooker.

Conclusion

This beef short rib recipe slow cooker truly delivers on its promise: incredible flavor, minimal effort, and comforting satisfaction. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or special occasions, providing a hearty, nutritious meal your whole family will love for healthy eating. Save this recipe, pin it for later, and make this delicious dish a staple in your home!

Print