Filipino Beef Short Ribs Recipe Easy and Delicious

Filipino cuisine offers a wonderful array of flavors that are both bold and comforting. One dish that truly stands out is the Filipino beef short ribs recipe, a hearty and savory meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

This recipe combines tender, slow-cooked beef ribs with a rich and flavorful sauce that balances sweetness, tanginess, and umami. Whether you’re a fan of adobo, sinigang, or other Filipino classics, these beef short ribs will quickly become a favorite due to their melt-in-your-mouth texture and mouthwatering taste.

This dish is not only delicious but also relatively easy to prepare, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The secret lies in the marinade and the slow simmering process that ensures each bite is infused with layers of flavor.

If you’re looking to expand your culinary repertoire with authentic Filipino flavors, this beef short ribs recipe is a perfect start. Prepare to impress your guests and delight your taste buds with this unforgettable meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Filipino beef short ribs recipe is a celebration of rich flavors and tender meat. The ribs are marinated in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar, which tenderizes the meat while infusing it with depth.

Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in ribs that fall off the bone effortlessly.

The balance of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy notes makes this dish irresistible. It’s a comforting meal that pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or garlic fried rice.

Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily adjust the marinade or cooking method to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe promises satisfaction with every bite. It also offers a glimpse into Filipino culinary tradition, making it a great choice for those eager to explore new cuisines.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef short ribs, cut into 3-4 inch pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably Filipino soy sauce)
• 1/4 cup vinegar (cane vinegar or white vinegar)
• 1/2 cup water
• 6 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1-2 long green chilies (siling haba) for a mild kick

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for braising
• Mixing bowls for marinating
• Sharp knife for cutting ribs and vegetables
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or slotted spoon for handling ribs
• Serving platter or bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, brown sugar, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Stir until the sugar partially dissolves.
2. Marinate the ribs: Add the beef short ribs to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor.
3. Sear the ribs: Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove the ribs from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and brown them on all sides. This step locks in flavor and adds depth to the dish.
4. Sauté the onions: Remove the ribs and set aside. In the same pot, add the sliced onions and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
5. Combine and simmer: Return the ribs to the pot, pour in the reserved marinade along with 1/2 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Slow cook: Cover the pot and let the ribs simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and nearly falling off the bone. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep the ribs partially submerged.
7. Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and add salt or pepper as needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 15 minutes to allow the liquid to reduce.
8. Optional chili addition: For a mild heat, add the long green chilies during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
9. Serve hot: Transfer the ribs and sauce to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with steamed rice or your favorite Filipino side dishes.

Tips & Variations

To achieve the perfect tender ribs, patience is key. Slow simmering ensures the meat absorbs all the flavors and becomes irresistibly soft.

• Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the ribs overnight in the refrigerator.
• Use bone-in ribs: Bone-in short ribs add extra richness to the broth.
• Try different vinegars: Experiment with coconut vinegar or apple cider vinegar for subtle flavor variations.
• Make it spicy: Add sliced bird’s eye chilies or chili flakes for an extra kick.
• Vegetable add-ins: Include potatoes, carrots, or green beans during the last hour of cooking for a one-pot meal.
• Slow cooker option: After searing, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Filipino beef short ribs dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or traditional garlic fried rice. The rice soaks up the rich sauce, making each bite even more delightful.

For a more complete meal, serve alongside fresh vegetable dishes like ensaladang mangga (green mango salad) or sautéed greens such as kangkong (water spinach) with garlic. A light, tangy side like atchara (pickled papaya) can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ribs.

You can also pair this dish with classic Filipino staples such as Chicken Adobo, Pancit Canton, or Laing for a full Filipino feast that highlights the diversity of flavors and textures in this cuisine.

Conclusion

Filipino beef short ribs are a true testament to the depth and warmth of Filipino cooking. This recipe offers a beautiful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that perfectly complement tender, slow-cooked beef ribs.

The ease of preparation combined with the impressive results makes it a fantastic dish for any occasion.

Whether you’re a Filipino food enthusiast or just beginning to explore this vibrant cuisine, this recipe is a delicious gateway into traditional flavors that are sure to satisfy. Try it out, share it with loved ones, and enjoy a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from the Philippines.

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