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Tender Instant Pot Korean Short Ribs Recipe Easy Rich Soy-Garlic Glaze

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Tender Korean short ribs cooked quickly in an Instant Pot with a rich, glossy soy-garlic glaze that balances salty and sweet flavors. Perfect for a comforting and impressive meal without the usual long wait.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds beef short ribs, bone-in
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced or pressed
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 3 pounds of beef short ribs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, and 1 cup beef broth or water.
  3. Optional: Using the sauté function on your Instant Pot, sear the ribs in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
  4. Pour a splash of the glaze into the pot and scrape up any browned bits using a wooden spoon.
  5. Place the ribs back into the pot in a single layer and pour the remaining glaze over them.
  6. Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual/high pressure for 35 minutes with the steam release valve set to sealing.
  7. Let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to venting to release remaining steam.
  8. Remove ribs with tongs and set aside. Switch Instant Pot to sauté mode and simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes until thickened and glossy, stirring occasionally.
  9. Return ribs to the pot and toss gently to coat with the thickened glaze.
  10. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Add red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Do not rush the natural pressure release to keep ribs juicy. Browning ribs is optional but adds flavor. Stir glaze often when thickening to prevent burning. Splash water if glaze becomes too thick. Optional additions include star anise or cinnamon stick for warmth, or gochujang for spice.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, Korean short ribs, soy-garlic glaze, pressure cooker, easy dinner, beef ribs, quick recipe