How To Cut Short Ribs Crosswise At Home: The Easy Way!

Cutting short ribs crosswise is a fundamental technique for home cooks looking to elevate their culinary skills. This method not only enhances the flavor and tenderness of the ribs but also makes them more manageable to cook. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of cutting short ribs crosswise at home, ensuring you achieve perfect results every time.

Understanding the Short Rib

Short ribs are taken from the lower rib section of the cow. They consist of bone, meat, and cartilage, and are known for their rich flavor and marbling. Cutting short ribs crosswise involves slicing them perpendicular to the bone, resulting in individual ribs that are ideal for grilling, braising, or roasting.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Meat mallet or rolling pin (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Remove the Membrane (Optional)

Some short ribs may have a thin, silvery membrane on the bone side. Using a sharp knife, carefully score the membrane and peel it away. This will help the ribs cook more evenly.

2. Trim Excess Fat

Trim any excess fat from the ribs, leaving a thin layer to prevent drying out during cooking.

3. Cut Between the Bones

Place the short ribs on a cutting board with the bone side down. Using a sharp chef‘s knife, carefully cut between the bones. Keep the knife perpendicular to the ribs to ensure even slices.

4. Use a Meat Mallet (Optional)

To tenderize the ribs, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them lightly. This will break down the connective tissue and make the ribs more tender when cooked.

5. Season the Ribs

Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasonings.

6. Cook the Ribs

The crosswise-cut short ribs are now ready to be cooked using your preferred method. You can grill, braise, or roast them to perfection.

Tips for Success

• Use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts.
• Keep the knife perpendicular to the ribs to achieve even slices.
• If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use a heavy skillet to pound the ribs.
• Season the ribs liberally to enhance their flavor.
• Cook the ribs to an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare, or 160°F for medium.

Variations

• French-Cut Short Ribs: Cut the ribs into 2-inch pieces, exposing the bone. This method is ideal for braising or roasting.
• English-Cut Short Ribs: Cut the ribs into 3-inch pieces, leaving the bones intact. This method is commonly used for grilling or smoking.

Wrap-Up: Unlocking Flavor and Tenderness

By following these steps, you can confidently cut short ribs crosswise at home, unlocking their full flavor and tenderness potential. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to expand your culinary repertoire, this technique will elevate your short rib dishes to the next level.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Why is it important to cut short ribs crosswise?

Cutting short ribs crosswise exposes more surface area to seasonings and cooking heat, resulting in more flavorful and tender ribs.

2. How thick should I cut the short ribs?

The ideal thickness for crosswise-cut short ribs is between 1/2 inch and 1 inch.

3. Can I cut short ribs crosswise if they are frozen?

It is not recommended to cut short ribs crosswise while they are frozen, as it can be difficult to achieve clean cuts and may damage the ribs. Thaw the ribs completely before cutting.

4. How long should I cook crosswise-cut short ribs?

The cooking time will vary depending on the method and thickness of the ribs. Generally, grill or sear for 5-7 minutes per side, braise for 2-3 hours, or roast for 1-1.5 hours.

5. What are some good seasoning options for crosswise-cut short ribs?

Popular seasoning options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cumin. You can also use pre-made spice blends or create your own custom rubs.