Sweet And Sour Short Ribs
Sweet and tangy short ribs slow-cooked to tender perfection, infused with brown sugar, vinegar, and lemon juice—ideal for hearty family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the beef short ribs in a skillet to remove excess fat.
- Place the browned ribs in a slow cooker.
- Add sliced onions, brown sugar, dry mustard, flour, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and water to the slow cooker.
- Stir well to coat the ribs evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 10 to 12 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, let the short ribs marinate in the sauce overnight before cooking. If you don't have dry mustard, you can substitute with Dijon mustard for a similar tang. To enhance the sweetness, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice. Ensure you use a slow cooker to tenderize the meat thoroughly, just like in Mom'S Beef Stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour short ribs over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed broccoli or green beans pairs beautifully with this dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving with a slice of crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce, or browse more American recipes for additional side ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sweet and sour short ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Short Ribs contains roughly 398 calories, with 35g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (69% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1902mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat?
While short ribs are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute with beef chuck or brisket. Adjust the cooking time as these cuts may vary in tenderness. Just ensure they are well marbled to maintain flavor and moisture.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when they are fork-tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. If using a slow cooker, cooking for 10 to 12 hours on low should yield perfectly tender results.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, sweet and sour short ribs can be made a day in advance. Simply prepare as directed and refrigerate overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully, and reheating will be quick and easy, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).