Korean-style short ribs are a delicious combination of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. Traditionally grilled, these beef short ribs can be made quickly and easily in an air fryer, resulting in juicy, flavorful ribs with a perfect caramelized exterior. This recipe uses a classic Korean marinade that’s perfect for tenderizing the meat and infusing it with bold flavors.
1. Air Fryer Short Ribs Recipe ( Korean Style )
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef short ribs
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar (or mirin)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pear or apple, grated (optional, for tenderizing and added sweetness)
Optional Garnishes
- Sliced green onions
- Extra sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Mix the marinade ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and black pepper. If using, add the grated pear or apple. This fruit is traditionally used to help tenderize the meat and add a touch of sweetness.
Step 2: Marinate the Short Ribs
Marinate the ribs: Place the beef short ribs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, making sure they’re evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a nice crispy exterior on the ribs.
Step 4: Cook the Short Ribs in the Air Fryer
Cook the ribs: Remove the short ribs from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overlapping. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Air fry: Cook the ribs at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the ribs are caramelized, crispy on the edges, and cooked through. The cook time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your ribs and the power of your air fryer.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish and serve: Transfer the cooked ribs to a serving platter and garnish with sliced green onions and additional sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Variations
Spicy Korean Short Ribs: Add 1-2 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Sweet & Smoky Short Ribs: Add 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade for a sweet and smoky flavor profile.
No Soy Version: For a soy-free version, replace the soy sauce with coconut aminos, which has a similar salty-sweet flavor.
3. What to Serve with Korean Style Short Ribs
Steamed Rice: Serve the ribs with steamed white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
Kimchi: A side of kimchi adds a refreshing, tangy crunch that pairs perfectly with the rich, savory ribs.
Pickled Vegetables: Serve with Korean pickled radishes, cucumbers, or carrots for a bright, flavorful contrast.
Korean Side Dishes (Banchan): Pair the ribs with popular Korean side dishes like spinach salad (Sigeumchi Namul), bean sprouts (Kongnamul), or potato salad.
4. Leftovers and Storage
Storing: Store leftover cooked short ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the ribs in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until warmed through.
These Air Fryer Korean Short Ribs are a quick, easy, and flavorful take on a classic Korean BBQ dish. The air fryer gives the ribs a delicious caramelized exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside. You’ll love how simple and tasty this recipe is—without needing to fire up the grill!
