If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful meals, beef short ribs are probably on your list of must-try ingredients. These meaty, tender cuts are perfect for slow-cooking, braising, or grilling, and they deliver rich flavor in every bite. But if you’re wondering where to buy beef short ribs—whether for a special dinner or just to try a new recipe—you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best places to find beef short ribs, tips for choosing the right cut, and answers to common questions so you can enjoy the best possible results at home.
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What Are Beef Short Ribs?
Before diving into where to buy them, let’s quickly clarify what beef short ribs are. These ribs are cut from the lower section of the cow’s rib cage and can come in a few different styles, such as English cut (meaty chunks with bone), flanken cut (thin slices across the bone), or boneless. Each style has its own unique texture and ideal cooking method.
Where to Buy Beef Short Ribs: Your Top Options
Finding high-quality beef short ribs can be easy if you know where to look. Here are your best options:
1. Local Grocery Stores
Most large supermarkets carry beef short ribs in the meat section. You’ll typically find them in the refrigerated case near other beef cuts. Look for:
- English cut: Thick, meaty pieces with a bone running through each chunk.
- Flanken cut: Thin strips cut across several bones, often used in Korean BBQ.
- Boneless short ribs: Just the meat, no bones.
Tip: If you don’t see short ribs on display, ask the butcher—they may have them in the back or can cut them fresh for you.
2. Butcher Shops
Your local butcher is one of the best places to buy beef short ribs. Butchers often offer higher-quality meat and can provide custom cuts based on your recipe needs. Don’t hesitate to ask for a specific style, thickness, or amount—they’re usually happy to accommodate.
3. Online Meat Retailers
If convenience is your priority or you’re looking for premium options, online meat retailers are a fantastic choice. Some popular options include:
These retailers often offer grass-fed, organic, or wagyu short ribs, shipped directly to your door. Be sure to check shipping times and minimum order requirements.
4. Wholesale Clubs
If you’re cooking for a crowd or want to stock up, wholesale clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s often sell beef short ribs in bulk packs at competitive prices. The quality is typically good, and you can save money by buying larger quantities.
5. Farmers’ Markets and Local Farms
For those who value locally sourced meat, check out your area’s farmers’ markets or local farms. Many small-scale producers raise cattle humanely and offer beef short ribs that are fresh and flavorful. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions about how the animals were raised and what they were fed.
Tips for Choosing the Best Beef Short Ribs
- Look for marbling: Good short ribs should have visible streaks of fat (marbling) throughout the meat. This fat melts during cooking and keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.
- Check for freshness: The meat should be bright red with no brown spots or off smells.
- Choose the right cut: English cut is best for braising; flanken is great for grilling or Asian recipes; boneless is convenient for quick cooking.
- Consider thickness: Thicker cuts are better for slow-cooking methods because they stay moist and tender.
- Ask questions: Don’t be shy about asking your butcher or vendor about where the beef comes from or how it was raised.
How Much Do Beef Short Ribs Cost?
The price of beef short ribs varies depending on where you shop and the quality of the meat. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Supermarkets: $6–$10 per pound
- Butcher shops: $8–$15 per pound (often higher quality)
- Online retailers: $10–$30 per pound (premium and specialty options)
- Wholesale clubs: $5–$8 per pound (when bought in bulk)
- Farmers’ markets/local farms: $8–$16 per pound (often grass-fed or organic)
Keep in mind: Bone-in short ribs weigh more, but you’ll lose some weight after cooking as fat and bones render down.
Cuts of Beef Short Ribs: What’s the Difference?
- English Cut: Thick pieces with one bone per piece; ideal for braising or slow-cooking.
- Flanken Cut: Thin slices across several bones; perfect for grilling or Korean-style recipes.
- Boneless Short Ribs: Just the meat, no bones; great for fast cooking or recipes that call for shredded beef.
How to Store and Prepare Beef Short Ribs
- Refrigerate promptly: Store raw short ribs in the coldest part of your fridge and cook within 2–3 days.
- Freeze if needed: For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing; use within 6 months for best quality.
- Thaw safely: Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
- Braise or grill: Short ribs become tender when slow-cooked or braised but can also be delicious when grilled (especially flanken style).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I substitute beef short ribs with another cut?
If you can’t find short ribs, try using chuck roast (cut into pieces) or beef shank for braising recipes. For grilling, flank steak or skirt steak can be substituted in a pinch.
Are beef short ribs tough?
Beef short ribs are naturally tough due to their connective tissue, but they become incredibly tender when cooked low and slow—especially by braising or slow roasting.
Should I buy bone-in or boneless short ribs?
This depends on your recipe and preference. Bone-in provides extra flavor during cooking, while boneless is easier to handle and quicker to prepare.
What’s the best way to cook beef short ribs?
Braising is the classic method: brown the ribs, add liquid (like broth or wine), cover, and cook slowly until tender. Flanken-cut ribs are also great marinated and grilled quickly over high heat.
The Bottom Line
No matter where you live, there are plenty of options for buying delicious beef short ribs—whether from your local supermarket, trusted butcher, online retailer, wholesale club, or a local farm. Remember to look for good marbling, choose the right cut for your recipe, and store them properly until you’re ready to cook. With these tips in hand, you’ll be ready to enjoy melt-in-your-mouth short ribs at home any time!