Name: Gochujang Short Ribs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-492255H35M3S
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 5 lbs beef short ribs, large; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 onion, diced; 2-3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 2 tbsp less-salt soy sauce; 1/2 cup tomato passata or crushed tomatoes; 2 cups dry red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon); 1/2 cup water; 2 tbsp gochujang paste

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Gochujang Short Ribs are a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine right into your kitchen. Imagine the tender, juicy beef paired with a rich, spicy-sweet sauce that makes every bite a taste sensation. The gochujang adds a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re having a cozy family dinner or throwing a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up these short ribs; it’s all about the time and love you put into the cooking process. Slow-cooking them allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you enjoy the wonderful aromas wafting through your home. So grab your apron and let’s get started on this delicious journey with Gochujang Short Ribs!

Why This Recipe Works

This Gochujang Short Ribs recipe melds rich flavors and the undeniable umami of Korean cuisine, ensuring a comforting and fulfilling meal. The slow cooking method allows the meat to tenderize, absorbing the robust sauce infused with gochujang, resulting in a dish that’s savory, sweet, and irresistible. When the short ribs slowly simmer in the sauce, they soak up every bit of that flavorful goodness, creating a dish that’s simply unforgettable. The tenderness of the meat, combined with the slightly spicy and sweet profile of the sauce, guarantees a hearty and memorable meal that you will crave again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Gochujang Short Ribs

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these Gochujang Short Ribs bring a touch of Korean flair to your dinner table. The sweet-spicy gochujang glaze paired with fork-tender beef ribs will captivate your taste buds, making this dish a memorable indulgence for every cooking enthusiast. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the experience of sharing great food with those you care about. This dish is perfect for making lasting memories around the dining table as everyone enjoys the uniquely bold flavors layered in each bite. Plus, the recipe is straightforward and lets you focus more on enjoying time with your guests rather than getting stuck in the kitchen.

Ingredients

5 lbs beef short ribs, large
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, diced
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger
2 tbsp less-salt soy sauce
1/2 cup tomato passata or crushed tomatoes
2 cups dry red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
1/2 cup water
2 tbsp gochujang paste

Preparing the Gochujang Short Ribs

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) to prepare for the slow cooking process, ensuring even cooking of your short ribs. Preheating the oven provides the right environment for flavors to develop beautifully as the meat cooks.

Season and Sear the Short Ribs

Start by patting the short ribs dry, which helps them brown nicely. Sprinkle the salt over the ribs for a bit of seasoning. In a large, deep Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, sear the short ribs on all sides until they are well-browned. This step locks in moisture and adds a nice crust to the meat. After searing, transfer them to a plate to rest.

Sauté Aromatics

Using the same pot, add the diced onion and cook over low heat for about 5 minutes, letting the onion soften. This gentle cooking helps to build a foundation of flavor. Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. These ingredients will add a lovely aroma and depth to your sauce.

Create the Flavorful Sauce

Now it’s time to bring the sauce together. Add the less-salt soy sauce, tomato passata (or crushed tomatoes), dry red wine, water, and gochujang paste to the pot. Mix everything thoroughly until combined. The gochujang will add that signature heat and sweetness while the wine enriches the sauce’s complexity.

Combine and Cook

Return the seared short ribs to the Dutch oven, ensuring they are partially submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot with a lid and let the magic happen! Cook for 2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls off the bone. If you’re using a slow cooker, you can follow the previous steps and then cook on LOW for 8 hours, letting the flavors infuse.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Gochujang Short Ribs are ready, serve them with steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that rich sauce. Adding a side of sautéed greens or pickled vegetables will light up your plate, bringing freshness and balance to the dish. Each bite is an excellent mix of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors.

Tips for Success

Ensure a deep pot is used for even cooking, as this allows the heat to distribute consistently.
Allow the short ribs to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps keep them juicy and tender.
Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice preference; you want it to suit your taste!

Variations

Looking to switch it up? Consider adding chunks of carrots or potatoes to the pot for extra flavor and texture. They will absorb the sauce nicely and add heartiness to the meal. Alternatively, you can substitute the short ribs with beef chuck for a different bite, still capturing those delightful flavors.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is always a bonus!), you can store your Gochujang Short Ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the oven to keep the meat moist and delicious.

Pairing Ideas

For the perfect meal, pair these spicy-sweet short ribs with a robust red wine, like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, or serve with a cold Korean lager. The right drink can elevate the experience even further, making your meal feel special.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
You can use beef chuck or pork ribs for something different; just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

2. How spicy are Gochujang Short Ribs?
The spiciness level depends on the amount of gochujang you use. Feel free to adjust it based on your spice preference.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! These ribs can be prepared in advance and then reheated for serving later.

4. Is gochujang available in regular supermarkets?
Yes, most grocery stores carry gochujang in the Asian food aisle or online.

5. What sides pair well with this dish?
Korean-style coleslaw, kimchi, or rice dishes complement the flavors beautifully.

Indulging in Gochujang Short Ribs transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. The combination of tender, flavorful beef and a complex sauce will entice anyone, making this dish a new family favorite. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creation with friends and family, as it’s sure to garner rave reviews!