Name: Tender Miso Short Ribs with Zesty Cilantro Sauce Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 180 min
Ingredients: 4 pounds Short Ribs (Choose grass-fed for superior flavor and rich marbling.); 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt (Essential for enhancing flavor and tenderizing the meat.); 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil (Ideal for searing without burning.); ½ cup Sake (Adds depth and acidity; can substitute dry white wine.); 4 cloves Garlic (Acts as a savory aromatic foundation.); 4 scallions Scallions (Use both white and green parts.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Provides warmth and a fragrant boost; sliced.); 2 cups Chicken Stock (Opt for low sodium.); ¾ cup White Miso Paste (Brings umami richness.); ⅓ cup Soy Sauce (Bolsters salinity and depth.); 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (Harmonizes savory and umami flavors.); 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup (Adds a touch of sweetness.); 1 strip Orange Peel (Delivers a refreshing citrus note.); 1 cup Cilantro (Adds freshness and vibrant color.); 1 medium Shallot (Enhances sweetness and gives a mild onion flavor.); 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (Deepens umami.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Brightens the sauce.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced for added flavor.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Finely chopped for extra flavor.)

As the savory aroma of miso braising fills the air, I can’t help but feel a wave of anticipation wash over me. There’s something so comforting about the anticipation of a homemade meal, especially when it involves tender Miso Short Ribs with Cilantro Sauce. Slow-braised to perfection, these delectable ribs are not only a showstopper for any dinner party but also an effortless option for a cozy weeknight treat. Combining the deep umami flavor with a zesty cilantro sauce takes this dish to a whole new level of excitement. Plus, the opportunity to savor leftovers the next day makes this recipe even more irresistible. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why are Miso Short Ribs a must-try?

Exceptional Umami Flavor: Miso-infused short ribs create a delicious savory experience that will leave your taste buds delighted.
Slow-Braised Goodness: The method ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes every bite a joy.
Effortless Elegance: Perfect for entertaining yet easy enough for a casual weeknight meal, these ribs are a culinary showstopper.
Complementary Freshness: Topped with zesty cilantro sauce, you’ll enjoy a burst of freshness that balances the richness beautifully.
Leftover Love: The hearty flavors deepen overnight, making the next-day leftovers just as enjoyable—perfect for meal prep! Dive into this delightful recipe and consider serving it alongside Stuffed Chicken Cheese or pair it with Breakfast Tacos Scrambled for a well-rounded feast!

Miso Short Ribs Ingredients

For the Ribs
• Short Ribs – Choose grass-fed for superior flavor and rich marbling.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor and tenderizing the meat.
• Neutral Oil – Ideal for searing without burning; can substitute with canola or grapeseed oil.
• Sake – Adds depth and acidity; feel free to use dry white wine as a substitute.
• Garlic – Acts as a savory aromatic foundation for the dish.
• Scallions – Use both white and green parts for added onion flavor.
• Ginger – Provides warmth and a fragrant boost; sliced for cooking.
• Chicken Stock – The perfect base for your braising liquid; opt for low sodium.
• White Miso Paste – The star of the show, bringing umami richness to the ribs.
• Soy Sauce – Bolsters salinity and depth in the dish.
• Brown Sugar & Maple Syrup – Harmonize savory and umami flavors with a touch of sweetness.
• Orange Peel – Delivers a refreshing citrus note to brighten the dish.

For the Cilantro Sauce
• Cilantro – Adds freshness and a vibrant color for the sauce.
• Shallot – Enhances sweetness and gives a mild onion flavor.
• Fish Sauce – Deepens umami in the salsa; can be omitted if you prefer.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce and ensures freshness.
• Garlic (minced) & Ginger (finely chopped) – Extra layers of flavor that really elevate the salsa.

Let’s embark on this culinary journey together and whip up some unforgettable Miso Short Ribs with Cilantro Sauce!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Miso Short Ribs with Cilantro Sauce

Step 1: Prep Ribs
Begin by taking your short ribs out of the refrigerator, allowing them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Generously season each side with kosher salt, ensuring the meat is well-coated. This step is essential for enhancing the flavor and tenderness of your Miso Short Ribs.

Step 2: Sear Ribs
In a large dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of neutral oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the short ribs in the hot oil, browning them on all sides for 20 minutes. You want a deep golden crust to develop, which will add flavor to your final dish.

Step 3: Prep Braising Liquid
Once the ribs are nicely browned, remove them from the pot and set aside. Lower the heat to medium, then add scallions and sliced ginger to the same pot. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant, then pour in ½ cup of sake and cook for an additional 3 minutes, scraping up the delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the white miso paste with 1 cup of chicken stock until it forms a smooth paste. Pour this mixture back into the pot along with the remaining chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, maple syrup, and orange peel. Bring everything to a gentle boil to combine the savory flavors of your Miso Short Ribs.

Step 5: Braise Ribs
Return the short ribs to the pot, making sure they are submerged in the braising liquid. Cover the dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F. Allow the ribs to braise for 2¼ to 2½ hours, checking for fork-tenderness, when the meat easily falls apart but retains its shape.

Step 6: Make Salsa
About 10 minutes before serving, prepare the vibrant cilantro sauce. In a bowl, combine chopped cilantro, minced shallot, fish sauce (if using), lemon juice, and additional minced garlic and finely chopped ginger. Mix well to combine the fresh flavors that will brighten your Miso Short Ribs.

Step 7: Serve
Carefully plate the tender Miso Short Ribs, spooning some of the rich sauce over the top. Add a generous scoop of the cilantro salsa for a zesty contrast. If desired, you can simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to thicken it before serving, ensuring a luxurious finish to your dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Miso Short Ribs with Cilantro Sauce are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the short ribs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to marinate in the delicious flavors. After browning, simply prepare the braising liquid and combine all ingredients in the pot, then refrigerate the whole braising dish. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop it in the oven and follow the braising instructions—the ribs will be just as tender and flavorful! For the cilantro sauce, mix all ingredients up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness. This way, you can enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort, even on the busiest of nights!

What to Serve with Miso Short Ribs with Cilantro Sauce

As you enjoy the rich, umami flavors of your miso short ribs, consider these delightful companions to create a full, satisfying meal experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery smoothness contrasts the tender meat, making each bite heavenly.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This crunchy vegetable adds a fresh element and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the ribs. Tossed in a bit of sesame oil, it elevates the dish further.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfect for soaking up the luxurious sauce, fragrant and fluffy jasmine rice complements the savory ribs beautifully.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes with the savory notes of the miso, providing a delightful flavor interplay.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: This refreshing side brings a light crunch, dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil for a zesty kick.
Honey-glazed Carrots: A touch of sweetness from honey and a hint of ginger elevate these tender carrots, creating a delightful balance.
Asian-style Coleslaw: A crunchy mix with a tangy dressing adds an exciting texture and complements the meal wonderfully.
Chilled Sake: Pair with a glass of chilled sake for a truly authentic dining experience that enhances the umami flavor of the ribs.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with rich mousse; it contrasts perfectly with the savory short ribs, leaving your guests delighted.

How to Store and Freeze Miso Short Ribs

Fridge: Store leftover Miso Short Ribs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: For long-term storage, place Miso Short Ribs in a freezer-safe container, ensuring they are well-covered to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To use frozen ribs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving for the best results.

Sauce Storage: If you have leftover cilantro sauce, store it separately in the fridge and use it within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Expert Tips for Miso Short Ribs

Browning Matters: Ensure proper browning of the short ribs; this step is crucial for achieving rich flavors in your Miso Short Ribs with Cilantro Sauce.

Watch the Time: Begin checking for tenderness around the 2-hour mark to avoid overcooking. Fork-tender is the goal!

Boneless Options: If using boneless short ribs, keep an eye on cooking times as they often cook faster than bone-in varieties.

Slow Cooker Alternative: For ease, consider using a slow cooker. Just adjust cooking times to achieve the same tender results.

Flavor Boost: Leftovers taste even better! Store them properly for the next day, as flavors will deepen and evolve beautifully.

Miso Short Ribs with Cilantro Sauce Variations

Feel free to customize these delicious miso short ribs to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Boneless Ribs: Swap boneless short ribs for easier serving without the fuss of bones.
Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian twist, use hearty mushrooms instead of ribs, soaking up all the rich flavors.
Citrus Swap: Experiment with different citrus peels like lemon or lime to brighten your cilantro salsa.
Extra Heat: Add fresh chili peppers to the salsa for a spicy kick that’ll tantalize your taste buds.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a few drops of liquid smoke into the braising liquid for a delightful smoky depth.
Asian Fusion: Serve with jasmine rice or noodles for a complete Asian-inspired meal, echoing the flavors of the Miso Short Ribs with Cilantro Sauce. You can even try pairing the ribs with Grilled Chicken Sauce for a flavor-packed feast!
Salsa Verde Upgrade: Add avocados to the cilantro salsa for a creamy texture that complements the ribs beautifully.
Wine Replacement: If you don’t have sake, dry white wine works just as well in enhancing the richness of the dish.

Miso Short Ribs with Cilantro Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best short ribs for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting short ribs, look for well-marbled pieces with a good amount of fat, as this will ensure tenderness and flavor. Grass-fed short ribs are a great choice, offering superior taste and texture. Avoid any with excess dark spots or discoloration. Fresh is always best!

How should I store leftover Miso Short Ribs?
To keep your delicious Miso Short Ribs flavorful, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave to retain moisture and tenderness.

Can I freeze Miso Short Ribs?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the Miso Short Ribs in a freezer-safe container, ensuring they are well-covered to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving for best results.

What should I do if my short ribs aren’t tender after braising?
Very! If your Miso Short Ribs aren’t tender after the recommended cooking time, put them back in the oven and continue braising for an additional 30 minutes, checking for tenderness every 10 minutes. The goal is fork-tender meat that easily pulls apart while still holding its shape.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
When it comes to dietary needs, keep in mind that this recipe includes soy sauce and fish sauce, both of which contain allergens like soy and fish. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, feel free to swap the fish sauce with an alternative, such as coconut aminos, for a similar umami flavor without the allergens. Always double-check ingredient labels when cooking for others!

How can I enhance the flavors of my Miso Short Ribs?
To elevate your Miso Short Ribs further, consider searing them longer for deeper caramelization, which adds robust flavor. Also, let them sit in the braising liquid overnight; the flavors will deepen and become even more satisfying. If you have the time, consider letting them marinate in the miso mixture for a few hours before cooking!