These Whole30 Asian Slow Cooker Braised Short Ribs are the perfect combination of tender, succulent meat and flavorful Asian-inspired sauce. Made with Whole30 compliant ingredients, this recipe is not only delicious but also suitable for those following a Whole30 or paleo lifestyle. The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth ribs that are packed with umami flavors. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends while keeping your dietary goals on track.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds beef short ribs
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five spice powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Directions
- In a slow cooker, combine the coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, coconut sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, Chinese five spice powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the beef short ribs to the slow cooker, turning them to coat them evenly with the sauce mixture.
- Pour the beef broth over the ribs in the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 hours, or until the meat is very tender and falls off the bone.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the short ribs from the slow cooker and set aside.
- Skim off any fat from the sauce in the slow cooker and transfer the sauce to a saucepan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch with a tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Add the arrowroot mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Return the short ribs to the slow cooker and pour the thickened sauce over them.
- Cover the slow cooker again and cook on low for an additional 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the braised short ribs hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Interesting Facts
Braising the short ribs in the slow cooker ensures that the meat becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
Coconut aminos are a great substitute for soy sauce in this recipe, adding the desired umami flavors without compromising the Whole30 compliance.
Chinese five spice powder adds a unique and aromatic flavor to these short ribs, complementing the Asian-inspired sauce.
The arrowroot starch is used to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy and velvety texture.
These braised short ribs can be served over cauliflower rice or alongside a side of steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying Whole30 meal.