Flanken-style ribs are a delicious and versatile cut of beef that can be cooked in various ways for maximum tenderness and flavor. Whether you’re grilling, braising, or slow-cooking, flanken ribs offer rich marbling and a juicy bite that’s perfect for any occasion. Known for their thin cross-cut slices across the bone, these ribs absorb marinades beautifully and cook quickly compared to thicker short ribs.
If you’re ready to take your flanken-style ribs to the next level, follow this step-by-step guide to prepare them perfectly every time.
Understanding Flanken-Style Ribs
1. What Are Flanken-Style Ribs?
Flanken-style ribs are thin-cut beef short ribs sliced across the bone, typically about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Each strip contains multiple small bones surrounded by rich, flavorful meat.
2. Why Choose Flanken Ribs?
Cooks quickly due to its thin cut
Absorbs marinades well, making it ideal for bold flavors
Versatile cooking methods – perfect for grilling, braising, or slow-cooking
3. Flanken Ribs vs. English-Cut Ribs
Flanken-Cut Ribs: Thinly sliced across the bones (Asian and Latin American cuisine)
English-Cut Ribs: Longer, single bones with thick meat attached (slow braising or roasting)
How to Cook Flanken-Style Ribs
1. Choosing the Right Cooking Method
Flanken ribs are best grilled, braised, or slow-cooked to enhance their rich texture and flavor.
Best Cooking Methods:
Grilling (High Heat, Quick Cook) – Best for Korean-style BBQ
Braising (Low & Slow) – Best for fall-off-the-bone tenderness
Slow Cooking (Set & Forget) – Ideal for deep flavors
Method 1: Grilled Flanken-Style Ribs (Korean-Style Galbi)
1. Best Marinade for Grilled Flanken Ribs
A Korean-style marinade enhances the flavors of flanken ribs with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky notes.
Ingredients:
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp grated ginger
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp sesame seeds
2 green onions (chopped)
2. Marinating the Ribs
Place ribs in a large resealable bag or container
Pour marinade over ribs, ensuring they are fully coated
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight for deeper flavor)
3. Grilling the Ribs
Preheat grill to high heat (450°F – 500°F)
Remove ribs from marinade and shake off excess liquid
Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, flipping once for even char
Ribs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 140°F (medium-rare) to 160°F (well-done)
Pro Tip: For extra caramelization, baste with leftover marinade in the final minute of grilling.
4. Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed rice, kimchi, and fresh scallions
Garnish with sesame seeds and extra soy sauce
Method 2: Braised Flanken-Style Ribs (Tender & Juicy)
1. Ingredients for Braised Flanken Ribs
2 lbs flanken-style beef ribs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion (sliced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional, for depth)
1 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2. Braising Steps
Preheat oven to 325°F
In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat
Sear ribs for 2-3 minutes per side until browned
Remove ribs and sauté onions & garlic until softened
Stir in tomato paste, broth, soy sauce, and wine
Return ribs to the pot and cover tightly with a lid
3. Cooking Time
Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours at 325°F until fork-tender
For extra thickness, reduce the sauce on the stove after removing ribs
4. Serving Suggestions
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread
Drizzle with the braising sauce for extra richness
Method 3: Slow-Cooked Flanken-Style Ribs (Set & Forget)
1. Slow Cooker Ingredients
2 lbs flanken-style ribs
1 cup beef broth
½ cup BBQ sauce or Worcestershire sauce
1 onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp salt and black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
2. Cooking Steps
Place ribs in the slow cooker
Mix broth, BBQ sauce, garlic, and seasonings, then pour over ribs
Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours
Ribs are done when they are tender and easily pull apart
3. Serving Suggestions
Serve over buttered rice, cornbread, or creamy coleslaw
Brush with extra BBQ sauce for a smoky finish
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcooking on the Grill
Flanken ribs cook quickly—don’t exceed 5 minutes per side
2. Skipping the Marinade
Marinades help tenderize the meat and add depth of flavor
3. Not Searing Before Braising
Searing locks in moisture and enhances rich umami flavor
Cook Flanken-Style Ribs Like a Pro
Flanken-style ribs are packed with flavor and perfect for grilling, braising, or slow-cooking. Whether you crave the smoky char of grilled Korean BBQ ribs, the fall-off-the-bone tenderness of braised ribs, or the rich juiciness of slow-cooked ribs, mastering this cut will elevate your cooking game.
So, fire up the grill, slow cooker, or Dutch oven, and enjoy mouthwatering flanken-style ribs today!