The BEST Substitutes for Short Ribs

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Are you looking for a substitute for short ribs? Whether you’re trying to cut down on costs or you’re looking for a healthier option, or just want another alternative, there are plenty of substitutes for short ribs that will still give you the flavor and texture that you’re looking for. So, you have no need to worry. Here are seven of the best substitutes for short ribs.

What are Beef Short Ribs?

Beef short ribs come from the chuck section of the cow, which is located between the shoulder and the neck. They’re typically marketed as English-style or flanken-style ribs. English-style short ribs are cut crosswise into thick slices, while flanken-style ribs are cut lengthwise into thin strips. 

Beef short ribs are one of the most flavorful cuts of meat because they contain a high amount of marbling or fat interspersed throughout the muscle tissue. This marbling helps to keep the meat moist and adds flavor as it melts during cooking. Beef short ribs are also one of the most versatile cuts of meat – they can be braised, roasted, grilled, or even smoked. 

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe or something for summer BBQ, look no further than some braised beef short ribs! A secret ingredient is using red wine or dark soy sauce – it adds depth of flavor and helps to tenderize the meat and can be used with these short rib alternatives.

substitutes for short ribs

Substitutes for Short Ribs

The interesting fact before starting…

“Flanken, Beef Short Ribs and Beef Spare Ribs are all actually the same piece of meat. The difference is simply in how it is cut.” Learn more at Fischer Bros & Leslie.

1. Beef Plate Short Ribs

If you’re looking for an alternative to short ribs, beef plate short ribs are a great option. They have a lot of the same flavor as traditional short ribs, and they’re also fairly inexpensive. You can purchase them as a “plate,” which is typically three bone, or in small 2 to 3-inch pieces. Either way, they make a great sub.

2. Spare Ribs

Another replacement for beef short ribs, is beef spare ribs. These ribs are packed with flavor and can be cooked using various methods, including broiling, braising, and barbecuing. However, beef spare ribs will need to be cooked differently than beef short ribs. But they will give you the same flavor you are looking for in short ribs.

3. Beef Shank

Beef shank is a great substitute that will provide you with the same succulent flavor and tender texture. The shank is a cut of meat that comes from the lower leg of the cow, and it is often used in soup or stew. However, when braised slowly, the shank transforms into a melt-in-your-mouth dish that is fit for any special occasion. Simply season the shank with salt and pepper before browning it in a Dutch oven. Then, add your favorite braising liquid (such as wine or beer) and allow the shank to cook until it is fork-tender.

** You can also go with a Lamb shank. Just keep in mind that the flavor of lamb is quite different than beef.

4. Beef Flanken Ribs

These are an excellent choice if you’re looking for something that’s both flavorful and tender. They can be a bit pricey, but they’ll can definitely be worth it. Flanken ribs come from the same area of the cow as short ribs, but they are much thinner. As a result, they cook more quickly and are less likely to become tough or dry. When used in stew or braise recipes, flanken ribs can provide all the flavor of short ribs.

5. Pork Ribs

Pork ribs are a tasty option that can be used as a substitute for short ribs if you want to avoid beef. They can be cooked in the same way as beef ribs and they have a somewhat similar flavor profile. There are three basic cuts of ribs – back ribs, spare ribs, and country-style ribs. The cut depends on the section of the hog.

It’s also important to note that pork ribs are also less expensive than beef ribs, so they can be a good option if you’re on a budget or need to cook for a large crowd.

**Lamb ribs can be used as well.

6. Brisket

Brisket is another great option for those looking for something similar to short ribs. It’s a tough cut of meat that benefit from cooking low and slow, so it will be just as tender as short ribs when it’s done.  Brisket can be cooked in a variety of ways, but it’s typically smoked, braised, or roasted. Season your brisket with a dry rub or marinade, and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 195 degrees Fahrenheit or until it’s fork-tender. Then, you can slice it thinly against the grain to serve.

This option is also great for large parties or gatherings.

7. Chuck Roast 

Short ribs are actually cut from the chuck, plate, or rib section of a cow. Because of this, chuck roast is a great alternative when you can’t get boneless short ribs or need to feed a crowd. Just like short ribs, chuck roast is a tough cut of meat that becomes meltingly tender when cooked low and slow. Season your chuck roast with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices, then cook it in the oven or in a slow cooker until it’s fall-apart tender.

Substitute for beef short ribs infograph

My Final Thoughts On Substitutes for Short Ribs

Whether you’re an experienced chef or a novice home cook, we hope this has given you a better understanding of beef short ribs and the substitutes you can use for them. With their rich flavor and versatility, they make the perfect meal and can easily be swapped.

Just review the substitutes for short ribs that will still give you the flavor and texture that you’re looking for. Remember, Beef plate short ribs, spare ribs, beef shank, beef flanken ribs, and pork ribs are some great choices that will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank!

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