Name: Tender Miso Short Ribs with Zesty Cilantro Sauce Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 135 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 4 lbs Short Ribs (Choose grass-fed for superior flavor and marbling.); 2 tbsp Kosher Salt (Essential for seasoning and tenderizing the meat.); 2 tbsp Neutral Oil (Canola or grapeseed oil works well.); 1 cup Sake (Enhances umami and adds depth.); 4 cloves Garlic (Smashed for aromatic foundation.); 4 pieces Scallions (Both white and green parts.); 1 tbsp Ginger (Finely sliced for cooking.); 2 cups Chicken Stock (Low sodium is best.); ¾ cup White Miso Paste (The star for its rich umami flavor.); 2 tbsp Soy Sauce (Adjust according to personal taste.); 2 tbsp Brown Sugar (Balances the savory flavors.); 2 tbsp Maple Syrup (Balances the savory flavors.); 1 piece Orange Peel (Adds a refreshing citrus note.); 1 cup Cilantro (Finely chopped for freshness.); 1 medium Shallot (Minced for sweetness and mild flavor.); 1 tbsp Fish Sauce (Can use coconut aminos as substitute.); 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (Enhances flavor and brightness.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced for extra flavor.); 1 tbsp Ginger (Minced for extra flavor.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of slowly braising short ribs enveloped the room like a warm hug. It’s moments like these that remind me why I adore cooking—where a few simple ingredients transform into a comforting, luxurious feast. This recipe for Tender Miso Short Ribs with Zesty Cilantro Sauce not only delivers rich umami flavors, but it also provides a crowd-pleasing centerpiece that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, the cooking process alone creates a delightful anticipation. Plus, the zesty cilantro sauce adds a fresh twist that elevates the savory richness of the ribs. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will impress everyone at the table? Let’s dive into making these deliciously tender short ribs!

Why Will You Love Miso Short Ribs?

Simplicity: This recipe is deceptively easy, requiring minimal prep yet delivering spectacular results. Flavor Explosion: The combination of miso and a zesty cilantro sauce creates a delightful umami balance that will have your taste buds dancing. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these tender short ribs are sure to impress your guests. Make-Ahead Magic: They can be prepped in advance, making meal planning a breeze. Flexible: Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations like using boneless ribs or adding spicy notes, the results are always rewarding. Celebrate the joy of cooking with this memorable dish!

Miso Short Ribs Ingredients

For the Ribs

Short Ribs – Choose grass-fed for superior flavor and marbling; boneless options can simplify serving.
Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning and tenderizing the meat.
Neutral Oil – Canola or grapeseed oil works well for searing without burning.
Sake – Enhances umami and adds depth; dry white wine can be a good substitute.
Garlic – Adds a savory aromatic foundation; use 4 cloves, smashed.
Scallions – Both white and green parts add onion flavor to the dish.
Ginger – Provides warmth and fragrance; slice finely for cooking.
Chicken Stock – Low sodium is best, serving as the base of the braising liquid.
White Miso Paste – The star of the dish for its rich umami flavor; ¾ cup is essential.
Soy Sauce – Bolsters salinity and depth; adjust according to personal taste.
Brown Sugar & Maple Syrup – A sweet touch that balances the savory flavors; use 2 tablespoons each.
Orange Peel – Adds a refreshing citrus note that brightens the dish.

For the Cilantro Sauce

Cilantro – Contributes freshness and vibrant color; finely chop 1 cup.
Shallot – Adds sweetness and a mild onion flavor; use 1 medium, minced.
Fish Sauce – Deepens umami; coconut aminos can be used as a substitute.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce with a refreshing zing; 2 tablespoons enhance flavor.
Garlic & Ginger – Extra layers of flavor; mince 2 cloves of garlic and 1 tablespoon ginger.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tender Miso Short Ribs with Zesty Cilantro Sauce Delight

Step 1: Prep Ribs
Start by bringing your short ribs to room temperature; this ensures even cooking. Generously season all sides with kosher salt, allowing the seasoning to penetrate the meat. Set the ribs aside for about 20-30 minutes while you prepare your other ingredients. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor in your Tender Miso Short Ribs.

Step 2: Sear Ribs
In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the short ribs, browning them on all sides for about 20 minutes until they develop a lovely golden crust. This searing process enhances the umami flavors of your short ribs and creates a rich foundation for the braising liquid.

Step 3: Prep Braising Liquid
Once the short ribs are nicely browned, remove them from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, sauté the white and green parts of the scallions along with the sliced ginger for about 3 minutes, until fragrant. Then, pour in the sake, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift the flavorful bits left behind, creating a rich base for your braising liquid.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a bowl, mix the white miso paste with 2 cups of chicken stock until smooth. Pour this mixture back into the pot, along with the remaining chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, and strips of orange peel. Bring this savory blend to a gentle boil while stirring, infusing your Tender Miso Short Ribs with an aromatic depth.

Step 5: Braise Ribs
Carefully return the browned ribs to the pot, ensuring they are well submerged in the liquid. Cover the Dutch oven and place it in a preheated oven at 325°F. Allow the ribs to braise for about 2¼ to 2½ hours, checking for tenderness; they should become fork-tender, revealing the delicious richness of the miso.

Step 6: Make Salsa
While the ribs are braising, prepare your zesty cilantro sauce. In a bowl, combine finely chopped cilantro, minced shallot, fish sauce (if using), lemon juice, minced garlic, and ginger. Mix well, adjusting flavors to taste. This fresh sauce will add a delightful contrast to the savory miso flavors of the short ribs, bringing brightness to your dish.

Step 7: Serve
Once the ribs are fork-tender, carefully plate them. Spoon generous amounts of the braising sauce over the ribs, letting the rich flavors blend. Top with the zesty cilantro salsa for an added pop of freshness. For an extra touch, consider simmering the sauce to slightly thicken before serving your Tender Miso Short Ribs with Zesty Cilantro Sauce delightfully!

Storage Tips for Miso Short Ribs

Fridge: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave for maximum tenderness.
Freezer: Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat Miso Short Ribs on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist and juicy.

Expert Tips for Miso Short Ribs

Browning is Key: Ensure ribs are well-browned to deepen umami flavors before braising. This crucial step enhances the overall taste of the short ribs.
Perfect Timing: Start checking for tenderness at the 2-hour mark. Adjust braising time if necessary, since thicker ribs may require longer cooking for perfect fork-tender results.
Plan Ahead: For meal prep, sear and season short ribs up to 24 hours ahead. Store with braising liquid for convenient preparation when you’re ready to cook.
Check Substitutes: If using boneless short ribs, reduce the cooking time, as they tend to cook faster than bone-in varieties.
Sauce Alteration: Feel free to adjust the zesty cilantro sauce to suit your taste. Add more lemon juice for brightness or a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick in your Tender Miso Short Ribs!

Make Ahead Options

These Tender Miso Short Ribs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the short ribs up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in the refrigerator with the braising liquid to keep them moist and flavorful. The cilantro sauce can also be prepared ahead of time—just refrigerate it for 3 days, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, all you need to do is braise the ribs until fork-tender and plate them with the fresh cilantro sauce. This way, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready with minimal effort during your busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Tender Miso Short Ribs with Zesty Cilantro Sauce

A comforting meal deserves an equally delightful array of side dishes to enhance the experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture pairs perfectly with the rich, savory sauce of the ribs, making for a classic, comforting combination.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This crunchy and slightly bitter green balances the savory nature of the short ribs, adding a fresh and vibrant element to the plate.
Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant rice absorbs the delicious miso-laden sauce, creating a delightful mouthful with every bite.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweet notes contrast beautifully with the umami flavors, offering a pop of color and a touch of sweetness that complements the dish.
Pickled Cucumbers: Adding a crunchy, tangy contrast, pickled cucumbers help cleanse the palate between bites of rich, tender short ribs, enhancing your dining experience.
Chilled Sake: Sipping on a glass of chilled sake elevates the meal’s essence, harmonizing the umami flavors while providing a refreshing twist.

Crafting a multi-dimensional meal around these miso short ribs creates a comforting and memorable dining experience for family and friends alike!

Miso Short Ribs Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your culinary experience with the Tender Miso Short Ribs!

Vegetarian Alternative: Use hearty mushrooms like portobello or shiitake in place of the ribs for a flavorful, plant-based dish.
Extra Zesty: Add lime or lemon peel to the braising liquid for an invigorating citrusy kick that brightens the entire dish.
Spicy Twist: Infuse some heat by adding sliced fresh chili peppers to the braising liquid, perfect for those who enjoy a spicy contrast.
Soy-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to create a gluten-free or soy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
Sweet Sizzle: Try incorporating a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of sweet chili sauce into the cilantro sauce for a delightful sweet-savory experience.
Smoky Infusion: A dash of liquid smoke can introduce a warm, smoky flavor to your miso short ribs, perfect for barbecued lovers.
Asian Flavors: For a twist on the cilantro sauce, add sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added depth of flavor.
Flavorful Broth: Swap out chicken stock with beef stock for a richer foundation that beautifully complements the meaty ribs.

Whether you decide to stick to the original recipe or try one of these variations, each version ensures a mouthwatering experience. Explore a pairing with Creamy Shrimp Alfredo with Cream Cheese or serve alongside a refreshing Swedish Meatballs Dill for an unforgettable meal!

Tender Miso Short Ribs with Zesty Cilantro Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of short ribs should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and marbling, I recommend using grass-fed short ribs. They can provide a richer taste and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you prefer easier serving, boneless short ribs are a great alternative, cooking faster and simplifying plating.

How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers keep beautifully! Store your Miso Short Ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the tender texture of the meat.

Can I freeze the short ribs?
Yes, you definitely can! Place the cooled short ribs in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move them to the refrigerator overnight before reheating, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.

What if my short ribs aren’t tender after braising?
Very! If your ribs aren’t fork-tender after 2¾ hours, they might need more time in the oven. Simply cover them again and continue braising, checking every 20-30 minutes. If you’re short on time, try cooking them on the stovetop over low heat until they soften.

Are there any dietary considerations?
The Miso Short Ribs do include soy and fish sauce, which can be problematic for some diets. For those with soy allergies, consider using tamari instead of soy sauce, and coconut aminos as a fish sauce substitute. Always check labels to ensure they’re aligned with your dietary needs.

Can pets eat miso short ribs?
While it’s tempting to share, it’s best to keep these ribs away from pets. The ingredients, particularly miso and garlic, can be harmful to dogs. Instead, set aside some plain cooked meat for them without the added seasonings and sauces!