Slow Cooker Korean Short Ribs

Last week I was in the mood for something simple for dinner.  Brown Eyed Baker had just posted this recipe and it was the simplicity I was seeking.  The meat completely fell off the bones and the recipe was deemed a keeper by Mr. Dally.  I will definitely make these again.  I served mine with steamed jasmine rice.  I did ask for rib selection assistance at my local Albertson's butcher block and the butcher was most helpful in the selection of ribs for the slow cooker.


Slow Cooker Korean Short Ribs
By:  Brown Eyed Baker

Ingredients:

6 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
1 pear (any variety), peeled, cored and coarsely chopped
½ cup soy sauce
6 garlic cloves, peeled and coarsely chopped
3 scallions, sliced
2-inch piece of fresh ginger, cut into two pieces
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons fish sauce
1 cup chicken broth
3 tablespoons instant tapioca
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons minced cilantro

Directions:

1. Preheat the broiler and arrange an oven rack about 6 inches below the heating element. Line a large baking sheet with foil.
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the short ribs bone-side-up on the prepared baking sheet and broil for 5 minutes. Flip them over and broil for 5 additional minutes.
3. Meanwhile, add the pear, soy sauce, garlic, scallions, ginger, vinegar and fish sauce to a blender or food processor and puree until completely smooth, about 1 minute.
4. Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the pear puree into the bottom of the slow cooker. Stir in the chicken broth and tapioca to combine. Nestle the short ribs into the slow cooker (I set them on their sides so they could all fit in a single layer). Cover and cook on low for 9 to 11 hours.
5. Remove the short ribs from the slow cooker, place on a serving platter and tent with foil. Allow the liquid in the slow cooker settle for 5 minutes, then skim off the fat with a large spoon. Season with salt and pepper and stir in the cilantro. Pour 1 cup of the sauce over the short ribs and serve with the remaining sauce.