Description
These Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs are tender, flavorful, and coated in a tangy cola BBQ sauce. Perfectly braised until meltingly tender, then finished to develop a slightly crispy, caramelized top, these ribs make a delicious main course for any barbecue lover.
Ingredients
Scale
Cola BBQ Sauce
- 1 batch Cola BBQ Sauce (recipe or store-bought)
Short Ribs
- 4 lbs boneless beef short ribs, cut into 3-inch pieces
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons avocado oil (or vegetable/canola oil)
Instructions
- Prep BBQ Sauce: Prepare the cola BBQ sauce either from scratch or use a store-bought batch. Allow it to cool to room temperature before using.
- Season and Rest Ribs: Generously season the short ribs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Allow them to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to help the seasoning penetrate and to reduce chill for more even cooking.
- Sear Ribs: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs in batches until deeply browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and creates a rich crust. Transfer the seared ribs to an oven-safe baking dish.
- Braise Short Ribs: Pour the cola BBQ sauce evenly over the ribs, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap moisture. Place in the preheated oven and braise for 3 hours until the ribs are meltingly tender.
- Finish Cooking: Remove the foil and continue baking the ribs for an additional 30 minutes. This will help develop a slightly crisp, caramelized top layer on the ribs, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Serve: Serve the BBQ short ribs immediately while hot. They pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, cornbread, or coleslaw. Alternatively, place the ribs between slices of sandwich bread for a hearty sandwich.
Notes
- Use boneless short ribs for easier serving and eating, but bone-in ribs will add even more flavor if preferred.
- Resting the ribs at room temperature improves cooking consistency and flavor absorption.
- Searing the ribs is crucial for developing rich color and depth of flavor.
- Braising low and slow ensures ultra-tender ribs that fall apart.
- Finish uncovered to create a caramelized crust that adds texture.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on how saucy you like your ribs.
- Use an oven-safe dish with a lid if you prefer instead of foil.
