14 Best And Amazing Substitutes For Short Ribs

Short ribs are often treated as a specialty dish on the menu of various restaurants. It’s a must-have item for meat lovers. However, the best part of short ribs substitute is that they can be easily prepared equally deliciously in your home’s kitchen.

So, if you are hankering for tasty, short ribs, you don’t have to rush to your favorite restaurant.

Now let’s briefly discuss these substitutes and see how they can be used in place of short ribs and still make your dish equally appetizing. 

Quick Table: Short Ribs Substitute

1. Beef Chuck Roast (Pot Roast)

Beef Chuck is obtained from the shoulder area, and therefore it is generally considered ideal for steaks. However, if you love tender meat but still want that distinctive beefy flavor, it is an ideal substitute.

Make sure the piece of chuck meat you select from the grocery shop or your nearest butcher shop has excellent marbling.

Compared to short ribs, the chuck will save you some bucks while giving you the same mouthwatering taste.  

While short ribs can be grilled, cooked, roasted, or braised, Beef Chuck is ideal for braising as it will maintain the juiciness and softness of the meat.

But the best part about Beef Chuck is its enormous size, which can take care of your entire family. It is perfect for pot pies, beef stew, and shredded beef sandwiches.

How To Substitute

You don’t need to worry about substituting short ribs with a beef chuck roast. You can season it with rub (a mix of salt, herbs, and spices) and smoke it for a few hours as you would with short ribs. However, it is ideal to cook beef chuck at a lower temperature than short ribs, somewhere around 225 degrees Fahrenheit.

Check Out The Following Recipe For A Perfect Pot Roast:

2. Beef Back Ribs

As the name suggests, Beef Back Ribs come from the animal’s back part. They are much longer than the short ribs, and there is less meat on the back.

They are available in the market with different names, such as Beef Spare Ribs, Dinosaur Ribs, Meat Riblets, Finger Ribs, Beef Ribs, and Rib Bones. 

Beef Back Ribs are one of the most in-demand beef cuts among meat lovers due to their luscious taste and aromatic fragrance. Like short ribs, beef back ribs are also perfect for roasting, braising, and especially for BBQ or grilling. 

But you need to be careful about its fat content, which is higher than short ribs. So, in a way, it may not be the healthiest substitute for short ribs, but it is mouthwatering.

Its flavor and texture will linger in your mouth long after you eat your dish. 

How To Substitute

Beef Back Ribs can easily substitute short Ribs. It is just that Beef Back Ribs are longer than Short Ribs, and they have a lesser meat content and a greater fat content. Therefore, you can reduce the amount of fat you are additionally planning to add to your dish. They are also ideal if you want to enjoy a replacement for boneless short ribs. 

The Following Video Will Guide You With A Fantastic Beef Back Ribs Recipe: 

3. Beef Flanken Ribs

Flanken Ribs are taken from the animal’s flank, which is around its abdomen, and it is almost the same area where the short ribs are taken. Compared to the short ribs, the flanken ribs are more thinly sliced and far more tender.

For diet-conscious people, beef flanken ribs are an excellent substitute for short ribs as they contain less fat and lean meat.

In addition, due to their thinness and tenderness, they are straightforward to cook. This cut is famous in Korea for quick grilling and is also apt for kalbi-style cooking. 

If you love tender meat, you can go for the braising method instead of grilling, and the result will be equally delicious. You can also bake them with vegetables of your choice to enjoy a healthy and hearty meal.

How To Substitute

Since both Beef Flanken Ribs and Short Ribs are taken from the same area of the animal, they can be easily substituted by one another. The only thing to take care of with Flanken Ribs is they require lesser cooking due to their thin slices and tenderness. So, apart from taking care of the cooking duration, you need to prepare your dish with flanken ribs like you would have with short ribs.

Check Out The Following Video, Which Details The Step-By-Step Process Of Preparing A Sumptuous Dish Using Beef Flanken Ribs:

4. Beef Plate Short Ribs

The beef plate is taken from below the rib area of the animal. Looking at Beef plates, Short Ribs can be easily confused with short ribs, as they both look almost identical.

But beef plate short ribs have higher fat content, thus making them juicier as compared to short ribs. Therefore, if you are not a great fan of short ribs, which may feel a bit dry, you can easily substitute them with beef plate short ribs.

Due to the higher fat content of beef plate short ribs, you don’t have to worry about pre-cooking activities like preparing the marinade.

However, it would be best if you also were careful about adding extra fat to your dish. While discussing the adequate substitutes for short ribs, beef plate short ribs are arguably the best choice.

You can prepare your favorite dish with beef plate short ribs just like you would have prepared it with short ribs. The only thing you should take care of is adding the extra fat content.  

How To Substitute

You can replace short ribs with an equivalent amount of beef plate short ribs. Due to their higher fat content, you can probably avoid marinating the meat and adding extra fat to your dish. The result will be a wholesome meal that will satisfy your craving for great short ribs.

The Following Video Will Give You A Detailed Recipe:

5. Beef Shank

Beef Shank is a portion of the leg, which is generally cut into cross-sections. Just like the short ribs, the beef shank is a bit dry and tough and thus requires a good amount of cooking. 

Beef shanks look similar to steak with a leg bone circle in the middle. While compared with the other substitutes, beef shanks may not be a popular replacement for short ribs because of their dry texture.

But, if beef shanks are slowly and patiently cooked in moist heat for a reasonable amount of time (around 4-5 hours), you will get soft and tender meat.

Beef shanks can be a suitable replacement for short ribs if you are planning to prepare a stew or a soup. Moreover, beef shanks will cost you less when compared to short ribs.

How To Substitute

Due to the dryness of Beef Shanks, use ‘moist heat’ cooking techniques like poaching, simmering, braising, stewing, pot roasting, steaming, etcetera to prepare your dish. You can use beef shanks in the same quantity as the short ribs, thereby maintaining a 1:1 substitute ratio. 

If You Are Still Not Sure About How To Use Beef Shanks In Your Dish, Check Out The Following Video:

6. Beef Brisket

If you are looking for a delicious replacement for ground short ribs, you should go for beef briskets. Beef Brisket is taken from the lower breast of the animal, which comprises two muscles that overlap with each other.

The first cut, also called the flat cut, is the thinner part and has less fat content, whereas the second cut, also known as the deckle point, is the thicker part, and hence it has more fat content. 

Although a whole brisket can weigh up to fourteen pounds, you can quickly get smaller cuts of the brisket from your local butcher shop or your nearest grocery store.

How To Substitute

If you are a fan of juicy burgers loaded with flavors and don’t want them to dry out on the grill, go for beef briskets. While substituting them with short ribs, you can opt for a 1:1 ratio.

Watch The Following Detailed Video Of The Texas Style Brisket Recipe:

7. Veal

Veal meat has numerous health benefits over beef. It not only has a lower fat content and less cholesterol than beef but is also a much better source of nutrients like protein, vitamin B6, vitamin B6, niacin, and zinc. 

So, if you are looking for a tasty and healthy substitute for short ribs, you can easily opt for Veal meat, especially the cut from the shoulder or round.

How To Substitute

Since Veal’s meat is low in fat content and is a leaner meat, you need to maintain a ratio of 4:1 while substituting it with beef short ribs. This ratio will not only make your dish wholesome but will also give a rich flavor to it. 

You Absolutely Cannot Miss Gordon’s, Veal Marsala. Check Out His Video To Learn The Recipe: 

8. Lamb Ribs

Lamb meat, taken explicitly from legs, shanks, or ribs, is an easy replacement for beef short ribs. The only thing you need to take care of while cooking lamb meat is not overcooking it to avoid unpleasant taste and aroma.

If you want to enjoy beef ribs but are unavailable, go for lamb ribs. 

How To Substitute

You can substitute short ribs with an equal amount of lamb ribs and prepare your recipe the usual way. You can go for lamb legs or shanks if you don’t get lamb ribs.

Check Out Nadiya’s Following Recipe For BBQ Lamb Ribs: 

9. Pork

Pork is one of the most accessible options if you can’t find your favorite beef ribs at your nearest grocery store. The best thing about pork meat is that it can satiate the hunger pangs of a vast crowd. 

If you opt for pork shoulder, subject it to moderate cooking only. Similarly, go for the broiling technique if you are going with pork flank.

But if you want a suitable replacement for beef short ribs, go for pork ribs, which can be marinated, smoked, or barbequed. 

How To Substitute

You can maintain a 1:1 ratio while replacing beef short ribs with pork ribs. Yes, you will not get the same beefy taste, but pork ribs taste incredibly delicious.

If You Are Wondering How To Prepare A Tasty Pork Dish At Your Home, Check Out The Following Video: 

10. Galbi  

Galbi is a traditional Korean dish of grilled short ribs marinated in a spicy red pepper paste and served with rice.

It is a traditional Korean barbecue dish consisting of marinated beef or pork ribs served with vegetables, cooked rice, and often kimchi. It is traditionally cooked at the table on a portable grill with a hot plate or hibachi.

Making it an excellent choice for those looking for spicy and flavorful Korean fare, there is an array of dishes, all of which are made with only the freshest ingredients.

A delicious Korean dish is typically served with a bowl of white rice and a tangy sauce.

How To Substitute

One can easily substitute Galbi for Short ribs. It replaces beef in recipes like chili, tacos, and even spaghetti. In addition, it is a go-to recipe for making a gluten-free, soy-free seitan that is hearty and delicious.

11. Tempeh

Tempeh is made from fermented soybeans and is a high-protein, low-fat food that can be enjoyed in various ways. 

It has a dense texture and nutty flavor, making it a great meat substitute. Tempeh is made from fermented soybeans and is a high-protein, low-fat food that can be enjoyed in various ways. 

It has a dense texture and nutty flavor, making it a great meat substitute. It is often sliced and pan-fried with vegetables or eaten plain.

Tempeh is most commonly used in vegetarian dishes but can also be eaten as a side dish or in salads.

How To Substitute

It is an excellent meat substitute, similar in texture to beef, chicken, and pork. In addition, tempeh is high in protein, fiber, and vitamins. To substitute tempeh for short ribs, one must marinate the tempeh in soy sauce, maple syrup, and liquid smoke.

12. Flank Steak 

This flank steak is prepared with the perfect blend of spices and marinade. It is a dish best served on a cutting board and dipped into the sauce provided with the dish.

A large, extended, rectangular cut of beef from the cow’s belly is typically grilled, pan-fried, or broiled. It is also known as London broil. 

It is a tough, inexpensive cut of meat that can be difficult to cook but is considered by many to be the most flavorful of all beef cuts.

Flank steak is a lean, flavorful cut of beef from the abdominal muscle. It is a dark red color and can be prepared in many ways.

How To Substitute

Flank steak can be substituted for short ribs in various recipes. When substituting, you will need to cook the flank steak for about an hour, depending on the recipe.

13. Seitan

Seitan is a meat substitute made from wheat gluten, often used as a meat alternative. It can be used in vegetarian and vegan dishes and has a rich, chewy texture that is meat-like in flavor.

Seitan is a type of protein made from wheat gluten. It is an excellent protein and iron source and is also gluten-free. 

Seitan can be found in various forms, including strips, chunks, patties, and more.

How To Substitute

One can make their seitan or use pre-made seitan in place of short ribs. To substitute short ribs with seitan, place 1/4 cup of seitan, a small amount of vegetable broth, and some soy sauce into a skillet and bring it to a simmer. Cook until the seitan is golden brown, stirring occasionally.

14. Firm Tofu

Firm tofu is a dense, dark-colored soy product with a subtle flavor. It is often used in vegetarian dishes, but can also be marinated, fried, or baked.

Tofu is a soft food made from soybeans that is an excellent source of protein. It is made by coagulating soy milk with a coagulant. 

It has a mild, nutty flavor and can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, stir-frying, and deep-frying.

 It is an excellent source of protein and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Tofu can be enjoyed in salads, stir-fries, soups, desserts, and even as a savory snack. 

Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in sweet and savory dishes.

How To Substitute

To substitute short ribs with firm tofu, marinate the tofu with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and honey. Next, pan-fry the tofu in a skillet with some vegetable oil. Cook until golden brown. Then, add in your choice of vegetables.

Quick Table: Additional Recipes

1. Korean Braised Short Ribs

Korean braised short ribs are also natively called Galbi Jjim and they are neatly braised in a sticky, sweet and spicy sauce to give you a dish that you are going to want to make again as soon as the opportunity presents itself. 

If you run out of chilli garlic sauce, you can use Thai sweet chilli sauce. As for the ribs either bone-in or boneless will serve the task.

If you want to thicken the sauce even further, remove the cooked ribs from it and heat this sauce till it reduces. You can choose to make this recipe gluten free. Use an alternative for soy sauce and gluten free blending flour. 

Calories Per Serving: 231

Total Preparation Time: 3 hours

2. Braised Beef Short Ribs Honey Soy Orange Recipe

Beef works well with many flavour combos, and this combo has a lot of ingredients. It is a Chinese styled mix of orange and soy along with five spice powder.

These spices are star anise, fennel, Sichuan Pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. These impart this dish its signature balanced taste along with a lot of sweetness and warmth.

The aroma is very deep and has complex notes. First, you need to dry, then season and finally sear the ribs. This will give them the much valued brown crust which enhances the recpe’s taste. 

Check on the beef after two hours have passed to see if the meat is tender. Ideally it should be soft, but should not fall apart at the touch of a fork. The recipe serves up to six people, so you are going to have leftovers. Yay!

Calories Per Serving: 1041

Total Preparation Time: 3 hours 45 minutes

3. Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

Red wine braised short ribs are perfect for those long winter nights when you want to cosy up with a tasty meal and watch TV.

Red wine and tomato sauce are used to braise the beef ribs, after which it is stirred with ribbons of pappardale and Parmigiano Reggiano to cook up the perfect storm. 

The smell of this concoction will draw in the children well before you finish cooking. If you intend to get the most for your money, mix the beef with pasta and sauce. Alternatively, use meat from beef stews or chuck.  

As for wine, go for Chianti. However, any bold red wine like super Tuscan, cabernet or Valpolicella will serve the purpose admirably. The overall taste is deep and complex because of the long time spent braising in the oven.

Calories Per Serving: 108

Total Preparation Time: 3 hours 50 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

What Can I Use Instead Of Short Ribs?

You can try various options, but the best substitutes are Beef Plate Short Ribs, Beef Flanken Ribs, or Beef Chuck Roast. If you can find beef, you can also go with Lamb Ribs, Port ribs, or Veal meat.

Can You Substitute Pork Ribs For Short Ribs?

Yes, short ribs can be substituted by the same quantity of pork ribs. The taste will be different for obvious reasons, but pork ribs taste equally divine.

Can I Use Beef Back Ribs Instead Of Short Ribs?

Yes, Beef Back Ribs can be easily used, even longer than short ribs. But they have a greater fat content. So, while preparing your dish, ensure you don’t add too much extra fat.

Which Cooking Techniques Can Be Used With Short Ribs?

Short Ribs can be grilled, barbecued, braised, roasted, and cooked.

Can You Use Beef Brisket In Place Of Short Ribs?

Yes, briskets can easily be substituted for short ribs, especially if you love the juiciness of the meat. You can easily have them in burgers and sandwiches.

14 Best And Amazing Substitutes For Short Ribs

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

7

hours 

Total time

7

hours 

10

minutes

Veal meat has numerous health benefits over beef. It not only has a lower fat content and less cholesterol than beef but is also a much better source of nutrients like protein, vitamin B6, vitamin B6, niacin, and zinc. 

Ingredients

• Beef Chuck Roast

• Beef Black Ribs

• Beef Flanken Ribs

• Beef Plate Short Ribs

• Beef Shank

• Beef Brisket

• Veal

• Lamb Ribs

• Pork

• Galbi

• Tempeh

• Flank Steak

• Seitan

• Firm Tofu

Directions

• Choose your favorite substitute from the list given above
• Follow the directions given in the recipe after having substituted the ingredient in the correct ratio.

Recipe Video

• Author
• Recent Posts

Jess Smith

Hi, my name is Jess Smith, and I love cooking in my spare time. Around three years ago, I decided to give up my day job as a teacher to pursue my passion for food. While I have enjoyed sharing tips and tricks on Social Media, I have decided to expand my horizons through this blog.

Through this blog I hope to help others learn the basics and more intricate details of cooking. I know from personal experience how frustrating it can be to cook a meal, only to realize you are missing one ingredient from your list. This is why I love to write articles chatting readers through some great substitutes that can be used in an emergency.

I hope you will find this blog useful, and that it will help you to develop your culinary skills, to help you cook up a storm!

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