This quick air fryer Korean short ribs recipe ensures you can enjoy restaurant-quality short ribs at home with an easy beef short ribs marinade. The beef ribs are juicy, flavorful, with hints of sweetness. After several trials, I’ve found a way to recreate easy Korean beef short ribs in an air fryer.
Korean BBQ is a special kind of magic—sweet, smoky, and utterly addictive. If you’ve ever had Galbi (갈비) at a Korean restaurant, you know the joy of biting into tender, marinated beef short ribs, perfectly grilled with a balance of umami and caramelized goodness. But what if you could make it at home with minimal effort and no grill? Yes, try my easy air fryer short ribs recipe!
What are Korean Short Ribs (LA Galbi)?
Korean beef short ribs, or LA Galbi, are a signature dish of Korean BBQ. Unlike traditional Western-style short ribs, which are cut into thick chunks, LA Galbi is sliced crosswise through the bone into thin, flanken-style pieces. This allows the marinade to penetrate quickly, making the beef tender and flavorful in less time.
The key to authentic Korean short ribs is the marinade. The combination of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and Korean pear creates a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami. The natural enzymes in pear tenderize the meat, giving it that signature juicy texture.
Why You Will Love This Air Fryer Short Ribs Recipe
- Budget-friendly: Cooking Korean short ribs at home is a savvy choice, costing just $20–$30 to feed 4 people with flavorful, homemade sides. In comparison, dining out can set you back $30–$40 per person, making home-cooked ribs not only a delicious but also a budget-friendly option.
- Quick and Easy: Using an air fryer makes cooking these ribs quick, easy, and less messy compared to traditional grilling.
- Healthy Cooking: Air frying reduces the need for excessive oil, making this a healthier option without compromising on taste.
- Flavor Explosion: The marinade infuses the ribs with a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. You’ll love it at first bite!
What is the Difference Between Beef Ribs and Beef Short Ribs?
Beef ribs and beef short ribs come from different parts of the cow and have distinct textures and flavors. Beef ribs are taken from the rib section and are larger, with more meat and marbling.
Beef short ribs, on the other hand, are cut from the chuck or plate and are smaller, with a rich, beefy flavor. The flanken cut used for Korean short ribs is a cross-section of the ribs, which makes them thinner and perfect for quick cooking.
Is The Air Fryer Good For Cooking Short Ribs?
Absolutely! The air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to cooking short ribs. Traditionally, Korean beef short ribs are grilled over an open flame or cooked on a stovetop griddle. While both methods work well, the air fryer offers several advantages:
- Quick Cooking Time – Short ribs in the air fryer cook in just 6 minutes, compared to grilling, which can take much longer.
- Even Caramelization – The circulating hot air ensures that each rib gets perfectly browned and slightly crispy on the edges, mimicking the charred flavor from a grill.
- Juicy & Tender Texture – Since air fryers cook efficiently without drying out the meat, the result is succulent, flavorful short ribs every time.
- No Smoke or Grease Splatters – Unlike stovetop cooking, the air fryer contains mess and requires minimal cleanup.
If you’re looking for a faster, more convenient way to make Galbi, the air fryer is an excellent option. It delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving Korean BBQ without the hassle of setting up a grill.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Beef Short Ribs (LA Galbi Cut): Look for flanken-style short ribs, which are thinly sliced crosswise through the bone. If you can’t find them, substitute with bone-in beef ribeye slices or boneless short ribs (adjust cooking time accordingly).
- Korean Pear (or Apple): Korean pear adds natural sweetness and tenderizes the meat. If unavailable, use Fuji apple, kiwi, or pineapple. Each fruit has enzymes that help break down the beef fibers.
- Soy Sauce: Use regular soy sauce for deep umami. For a gluten-free version, swap with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Sweetener (Brown Sugar, Honey, or Corn Syrup): Traditional Galbi uses brown sugar, but you can substitute honey or corn syrup for a richer glaze.
- Garlic & Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the savory depth. Minced or grated works best.
- Sesame Oil:This adds a nutty aroma and balances the marinade’s sweetness.
- Mirin (or Cooking Wine Substitute): Mirin enhances the marinade. If unavailable, use rice cooking wine, sake, or dry sherry.
Homemade Beef Short Ribs Marinade
The secret to delicious Korean beef short ribs lies in the marinade. Here’s how to make it:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 4 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp honey or plum syrup
- 3 tbsp mirin or cooking wine
- 1 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 Asian pear (grated)
- 1/2 onion (grated)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 tbsp ginger (minced)
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
Mix all these ingredients in a large bowl until the sugar is dissolved. This marinade will tenderize the meat and infuse it with incredible flavors.
Tip: You can use a store-bought marinade for Korean short ribs. look for marinades labeled “Korean BBQ” or “bulgogi” for best results.
Also, you can use the Korean short ribs recipe for other meats like pork, chicken, or even tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly: pork and chicken will be quicker, while tofu might need a different approach to achieve the right texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Korean Beef Short Ribs
Step 1: Rinse the Short Ribs
Rinse the ribs under cold water to remove bone fragments and excess blood. This step ensures cleaner flavors and a better texture when cooked.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a blender, combine the Korean pear (or apple), soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and rice wine. Blend until smooth.
Step 3: Marinate the Ribs
Place the ribs in a ziplock bag or airtight container. Pour the marinade over, ensuring all pieces are fully coated. Seal and massage the bag to distribute evenly.
For the best flavor, marinate overnight in the fridge. If short on time, let them sit for at least 3 hours.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Ribs
Arrange the ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping for even cooking.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Once done, garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot with steamed rice.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6 minutes.
- Flip halfway through to ensure even caramelization.
Storage & Reheating Tips for Short Ribs
Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Air Fryer – 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
- Microwave – 30 seconds to 1 minute, covered.
- Stovetop – Heat in a pan over medium heat until warm.
Easy Korean Beef Short Ribs in air fryer
Ingredients
Short Ribs:
- 1.5 lbs 700g Short Ribs (LA Galbi/Kalbi)
Homemade Beef Short Ribs Marinade:
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 4 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp honey or plum syrup
- 3 tbsp mirin or cooking wine
- 1 ½ tbsp sesame oil
- ½ Asian pear
- ½ onion
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 ½ tbsp ginger
- ¾ tsp black pepper
Garnish
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Green onions chopped
Instructions
- Rinse the Ribs: Wash the short ribs under cold water to remove bone fragments and excess blood. Rinse again to ensure cleanliness.
- Make the Marinade: In a blender, combine Korean pear, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, rice wine, and honey. Blend until smooth.
- Marinate the Ribs: Place ribs in a ziplock bag or airtight container. Pour the marinade over, ensuring full coverage. Seal and massage the bag to distribute the marinade evenly. Refrigerate overnight for the best flavor, or at least 3 hours if short on time.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 5 minutes.
- Cook the Ribs: Arrange ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6 minutes, flipping halfway through to cook evenly.
- Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot with steamed rice, kimchi, or lettuce wraps.
Video
Notes
What to Serve with Air Fryer Korean Short Ribs
- Steamed Rice – A classic side to soak up all the marinade.
- Kimchi & Pickled Vegetables – Adds a tangy contrast to the rich ribs.
- Lettuce Wraps – Wrap the ribs in crisp lettuce with rice and ssamjang for a fresh bite.
How can you make Korean short ribs tender?
To make Korean short ribs tender, ensure they are well-marinated and cooked quickly over high heat. The marinade should include ingredients like tenderizing fruits (e.g., pear or kiwi) and the ribs should not be overcooked.
Tips for Making Air Fryer Korean Short Ribs
- 1. Marinate Overnight: If you’re in hurry, recommend marinating the short ribs for at least 4 hours. For the best flavor, marinate the beef short ribs overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat. A thorough marination ensures that the ribs are well-seasoned throughout, providing a more intense and balanced flavor profile.
- 2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Place the short ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Proper spacing allows for optimal air circulation, which helps the ribs cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture on all sides.
- 3. Flip Halfway Through: Flip the ribs halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning and crispiness. This technique ensures that both sides of the ribs get a uniform, caramelized finish.
- 4. Don’t overcook the short ribs: Cook the short ribs for approximately 10 minutes, depending on their thickness. Check for doneness by looking for a deep, caramelized color and an internal temperature of 190–200°F (88–93°C), which indicates that the meat is tender and properly cooked.
Cleaning Tips after air fry the beef ribs
- Allow the Air Fryer to Cool Down
Let the air fryer cool completely before cleaning to avoid burns and make handling easier. This also prevents warping of parts due to sudden temperature changes. - Remove and Wash the Basket and Trays
Take out the basket and any trays and wash them with warm, soapy water using a non-abrasive sponge. This helps remove grease and food residue effectively without damaging the non-stick coating. - Soak Stubborn Residue
If there is stubborn residue, soak the parts in warm, soapy water for a few minutes before scrubbing. This loosens the residue, making it easier to clean and reducing the need for harsh scrubbing. - Wipe the Interior with a Damp Cloth
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the interior of the air fryer, removing any grease or food particles. This ensures that all surfaces are clean and free from leftover food debris. - Dry Thoroughly Before Reassembling
Ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembling and storing the air fryer. This prevents rust and keeps the air fryer in good condition for future use.
Trader Joe’s Korean Style Beef Short Ribs
I recently tried Trader Joe’s Korean Style Beef Short Ribs, and the convenience of this product was a game-changer. The pre-marinated ribs were easy to prepare—just a quick stint on the grill and they were ready to serve.
I decided to air fry these beef ribs, and they cooked beautifully with a caramelized exterior and tender, juicy interior. The marinade was spot on, with a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors that perfectly captured the essence of Korean barbecue.
Paired with a side of steamed rice and kimchi, this meal was both effortless and delicious, making it a great option for a quick, flavorful dinner.
How to cook Trader Joe’s Korean Style Beef Short Ribs:
Thaw the beef short ribs in the fridge when ready to cook. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), then arrange marinated Korean-style beef ribs in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 190–200°F (88–93°C), then let them rest before serving with your favorite sides.
