Boneless Beef Short Ribs Recipe

Ever craved a meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening? This boneless beef short ribs recipe might just be your next go-to comfort dish. Infused with the bold, aromatic charm of Moroccan cuisine, these tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs are slow-braised to perfection with a blend of warming spices like ras el hanout, cumin, and paprika.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking to impress with something exotic yet soul-soothing, this dish brings the magic of Moroccan comfort food right to your table. I’ve cooked it for friends who swore they weren’t “into ribs”—and now it’s the most requested recipe in my kitchen.

So, are you ready to elevate your dinner routine with a dish that delivers deep flavor, minimal effort, and maximum heart? Let’s dig in.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approx. 480 kcal per serving

Ingredients

Let’s gather everything you need to bring this boneless beef short ribs recipe to life. I’ve included classic Moroccan flavors with a few flexible options, so you can adapt it to your taste or pantry.

For the Beef Short Ribs:

• 2.5 to 3 lbs boneless beef short ribs – rich, tender, and perfect for slow braising
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – essential for searing and unlocking depth
• 1 large onion, finely chopped – adds sweetness and body to the sauce
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – for that bold, aromatic kick
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste – deepens the flavor and adds a rich base

Moroccan Spice Blend (Use Ras El Hanout or make your own):

• 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Pro Tip: If you have store-bought ras el hanout, use 2 teaspoons in place of the above spices.
What Is Ras el Hanout? Moroccan Foodie

Ras El Hanout can be found online On our Amazon store

For Braising:

• 1½ cups beef broth (or water with a bouillon cube) – enhances richness
• ½ cup crushed tomatoes – adds acidity and balance
• 1 tablespoon honey or date syrup – a subtle sweetness that marries beautifully with Moroccan spices
• 1 cinnamon stick – infuses warmth during slow cooking
• 2 bay leaves – for earthiness and aroma

Optional Add-ins for Extra Moroccan Flair:

• ½ cup dried apricots or prunes – for a sweet contrast
• ¼ cup toasted almonds or pine nuts – added before serving for crunch
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped – for a vibrant finish

dried apricots or prunes can be found online On our Amazon store

This carefully curated list keeps the balance between traditional Moroccan spice and hearty comfort food. Once everything’s prepped, the rest comes together with ease — just wait until your kitchen starts to smell amazing.

Instructions

Ready to turn simple ingredients into something unforgettable? Follow these easy steps to create incredibly tender boneless beef short ribs recipe that are infused with deep Moroccan flavor.

1. Sear the Beef for Maximum Flavor

• Pat the boneless beef short ribs recipe dry with a paper towel to ensure a nice crust.
• In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the beef in batches (don’t overcrowd!) and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until beautifully browned.
• Transfer the browned ribs to a plate and set aside.

Searing locks in the juices and creates those irresistible caramelized edges—don’t skip this step!

2. Build the Flavor Base

• In the same pot, reduce heat to medium.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

3. Add the Moroccan Spices

• Sprinkle in your spice blend: cumin, cinnamon, paprika, turmeric, ginger, salt, and pepper.
• Stir continuously for 30 seconds, just until fragrant—this helps the spices bloom and infuse the oil.

Using ras el hanout instead? Add it here instead of the individual spices!

4. Deglaze and Braise

• Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (that’s flavor gold!).
• Stir in honey, then add bay leaves and cinnamon stick.
• Return the short ribs to the pot, nestling them into the liquid.

5. Simmer Low and Slow

• Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low.
• Let it simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the sauce is rich and slightly thickened.

If using a slow cooker, transfer everything and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

6. Finish with a Moroccan Touch

• About 20 minutes before serving, stir in dried apricots or prunes if using.
• Let them plump up in the sauce for that perfect sweet-savory contrast.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Before serving, discard bay leaves and cinnamon stick.
• Sprinkle with toasted almonds or pine nuts and a handful of fresh parsley or cilantro for a bright finish.

Pair it with fluffy couscous, warm flatbread, or a cucumber-tomato salad to complete your Moroccan feast.

This dish isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience. Let the slow braise do the work while you prepare your sides or simply relax. When you finally lift the lid, the aroma alone will steal your heart.

MoroccanFoodie Community Tips and Praise

This boneless beef short ribs recipe has quickly become a favorite in the MoroccanFoodie community! Whether you’re making it for the first time or your fifth, here are some thoughtful tips and glowing feedback shared by our readers:

🌟 Tried-and-True Tips from the Community:

• “Double the batch!” – Nadia R. from California recommends making a bigger portion:

“I made this for my family, and there were zero leftovers. The flavor was even better the next day. Next time, I’m doubling everything!”

• “Use a slow cooker on workdays.” – James L. from New York shares:

“I prepped it in the morning, popped it in the slow cooker, and came home to the most incredible smell. This is now my go-to fall dinner.”

• “Try it with golden raisins.” – Mouna K. from Marrakech suggests a sweet twist:

“I didn’t have dried apricots, so I used golden raisins instead. It paired beautifully with the Moroccan spices!”

• “Freeze the leftovers!” – Rebecca T. from London adds a time-saving idea:

“This dish freezes well. I portion it with couscous in containers for quick weekday meals. Total lifesaver!”

Why They’re Raving About It

• “The beef is unbelievably tender—my fork literally slid right through.”
• “The spice blend is perfectly balanced. You can taste every layer.”
• “I’ve never tried Moroccan recipes before, but this was easy and so rewarding.”
• “It feels like a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home.”

Want to Share Your Own Twist?

We’d love to hear how you made this dish your own! Tag us @MoroccanFoodie or leave a comment below. Did you go spicy? Add extra herbs? Swap in pomegranate molasses? We’re here for all your delicious creativity.

This kind of community-driven insight not only builds trust but also sparks inspiration—making your cooking journey feel shared, not solo.

Moroccan Cuisine Overview – Moroccan Foodie

Equipment You’ll Need

Cooking this rich and flavorful boneless beef short ribs recipe doesn’t require anything fancy, but using the right tools makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what I recommend for the best results:

“All equipment is now available online in our Amazon store”.

1. Heavy-Bottomed Pot or Dutch Oven

• This is the heart of the recipe. A good Dutch oven distributes heat evenly and retains moisture, making it perfect for slow-cooked beef short ribs.
• Don’t have one? A deep, heavy stainless-steel pot with a lid works well too.

Pro Tip: Enameled cast iron is ideal—it browns beautifully and transitions from stovetop to oven with ease.

2. Sharp Chef’s Knife

• You’ll need it for chopping onions, garlic, and trimming the short ribs if needed.
• A sturdy knife ensures clean, quick cuts and keeps your prep stress-free.

3. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula

• Essential for stirring the spice blend into your sauce and scraping the flavorful bits from the pot (that’s where the magic lives).
• Silicone is heat-safe and gentle on nonstick or enameled surfaces.

4. Measuring Spoons & Cups

• For perfectly balanced spices, broth, and tomato paste—accuracy is key with Moroccan spice blends.

5. Slow Cooker (Optional)

• If you’re planning a hands-off version, a slow cooker is your best friend. Set it, forget it, and come back to beef that’s tender and infused with flavor.

6. Tongs

• Use them for searing the ribs safely and turning them during the browning stage.

Bonus: Serving Dish for Presentation

• A shallow clay tagine dish or rustic platter adds an authentic Moroccan touch when serving guests or capturing that Instagram-worthy dinner shot.

Having these essential kitchen tools on hand ensures that each step—from searing to braising to plating—feels smooth, efficient, and even a little joyful.

Key Benefits of This Boneless Beef Short Ribs Recipe

This isn’t just another beef short ribs recipe—it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that brings Moroccan warmth straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or craving something soul-satisfying, here’s why this dish earns a permanent spot in your meal rotation:

1. Deep Moroccan Flavor in Every Bite

• Thanks to the use of authentic spices like ras el hanout, cumin, and cinnamon, this dish is bursting with complexity.
• The sweet-and-savory balance—especially if you add dried fruit—gives it that signature Moroccan beef short ribs depth.

2. Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals

• This dish actually tastes better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or hosting.
• The flavors continue to develop overnight, and the tender beef reheats beautifully without drying out.

3. Minimal Hands-On Time

• Most of the magic happens during the slow-cooking process. Once it’s simmering, you’re free to prep sides, set the table, or relax.

 4. Protein-Packed and Nourishing

• With lean boneless beef short ribs recipe, this recipe delivers satisfying protein while keeping the richness balanced by fresh herbs and warming spices.
• It’s hearty without being heavy—true comfort food that feels good.

 5. Crowd-Pleasing and Customizable

• From weeknight dinners to special occasions, this dish fits the moment.
• You can adjust the sweetness, spice level, or even swap in ingredients based on what’s in your pantry.

 6. A Taste of Morocco at Home

• Even if you’ve never tried Moroccan cuisine before, this recipe is an approachable gateway.
• It brings global flavor to your table without needing a culinary degree.

This dish isn’t just a meal—it’s a story, a feeling, and an invitation to explore something new. And best of all? It’s easier than it looks.

Health benefits of beef ribs

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Pro Tips and Delicious Variations

Want to take your boneless beef short ribs recipe to the next level—or tailor them to your taste? These pro tips and creative variations will help you personalize the dish while maintaining its Moroccan soul.

Pro Tips for Perfect Ribs Every Time

• Brown the ribs properly
  Take your time when searing. A deep golden crust adds rich, meaty flavor that carries through the whole dish.
• Let it simmer low and slow
  Whether on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, low heat over a long period is what gives you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Don’t skimp on the spices
  Moroccan cuisine is bold and aromatic. Freshly ground spices make a noticeable difference—especially in a dish this slow-cooked.
• Balance your flavors
  Taste the sauce before serving. If it’s too tangy, a drizzle of honey works wonders. Too sweet? A splash of lemon juice or vinegar brings it back to balance.
• Remove the fat layer
  If your ribs release a lot of fat, skim the surface with a spoon during or after cooking for a cleaner, more refined sauce.

Flavorful Variations to Explore

• Add citrus zest
  A little orange or lemon zest added at the end brightens the dish and complements the deep spices.
• Switch the sweet element
  Swap apricots for dates, golden raisins, or figs for a new spin on the classic Moroccan sweet-savory combo.
• Go spicy!
  Want a little heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of harissa paste to the braising liquid.
• Try a stovetop-to-oven method
  After searing and deglazing, cover the pot and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 2.5–3 hours. This method yields incredibly tender short ribs with minimal monitoring.
• Make it a tagine twist
  Cook the ribs in a traditional Moroccan tagine (if you have one), layering in dried fruits and toasted nuts for a truly authentic experience.

Moroccan tagine Overview: Exploring The Moroccan Tagine Pot Unveil Hidden Secrets

These tweaks and tips not only enhance the results but also let you play with flavor profiles while staying true to the comforting essence of Moroccan beef short ribs.

Serving Suggestions

So, your Moroccan boneless beef short ribs are rich, tender, and swimming in bold, aromatic sauce—what now? Here are some of my favorite ways to plate this unforgettable dish, whether you’re going casual or going all out.

1. Serve Over Fluffy Couscous (Classic Pairing)

• Light and absorbent, steamed couscous soaks up all that flavorful sauce beautifully.
• Try adding chopped herbs, lemon zest, or slivered almonds to the couscous for a little extra flair.

How to Cook Couscous – Moroccan Foodie

Tip: Want more texture? Go for pearl couscous or barley.

2. Pair with Warm Moroccan Flatbread

• Tear-and-dip is the way to go! Khobz or pita bread is perfect for scooping up tender bites and sopping up the sauce.
• Toast lightly and brush with olive oil and za’atar for a tasty twist.

3. Add a Fresh Moroccan Salad

• Brighten the richness of the beef with a cucumber and tomato salad or orange and olive salad on the side.
• The contrast of cool, tangy veggies elevates the entire meal.

4. Serve in a Tagine for Presentation

• If you’re hosting or just feeling fancy, serve the ribs directly in a clay tagine dish. It keeps the food warm and makes a stunning centerpiece.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to something special, how you serve your short ribs can turn a great meal into an unforgettable experience.

Recipe Categories

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Moroccan
• Diet: High-Protein, Dairy-Free
• Method: Braising, Slow Cooking
• Skill Level: Intermediate

Conclusion

There’s something truly magical about a dish that combines bold Moroccan spices, melt-in-your-mouth beef, and just the right touch of sweetness. These boneless beef short ribs aren’t just an easy dinner idea—they’re a full-sensory experience. From the aroma that fills your kitchen to that first tender, saucy bite, it’s the kind of meal that stays with you.

Whether you’re cooking it for a weeknight treat or impressing guests over the weekend, this slow-cooked comfort food hits all the right notes—rich, satisfying, and undeniably special.

So go ahead—plate it up with pride, pour a glass of mint tea, and take a moment to enjoy the joy of sharing great food. And if this recipe amazed your heart like it did mine, don’t forget to leave a comment or tag your version online using #MoroccanFoodie. I’d love to see how it turned out!

Author’s suggestions

Enjoy a fresh apple and cucumber salad brimming with Moroccan flavors. Perfectly sweet, tangy, and satisfying for any occasion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Got questions before you dive in? Here are some common ones to help make your Moroccan beef short ribs experience as smooth and delicious as possible.

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavor gets even better the next day. Prepare it fully, let it cool, and store it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven before serving.

2. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, these short ribs freeze beautifully.

• Let them cool completely.
• Store in airtight containers or freezer bags with a bit of sauce to keep them moist.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
  To reheat: thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on low heat.

3. Can I use bone-in short ribs instead of boneless?

You sure can! Bone-in ribs add even more flavor and richness to the sauce. Just increase the cooking time slightly (around 30 more minutes) to ensure they become perfectly tender.

4. What if I don’t have ras el hanout?

No worries. You can create a simple substitute using a blend of cumin, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, and ground ginger—all key elements in this dish. Or try any Moroccan spice mix available in your local market.
Boneless beef short ribs recipe, Moroccan beef ribs, slow-cooked ribs

5. How should I store leftovers and for how long?

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more enjoyable with time.

6. Can I cook this in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Definitely!

• Slow cooker: Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
• Instant Pot: Use the sauté setting to sear, then pressure cook on high for 45–50 minutes with a natural release.

7. What are the best side dishes to serve with it?

Some great options include:

• Fluffy couscous
• Moroccan flatbread (khobz)
• A light cucumber-tomato salad
• Roasted carrots with cumin
• Even mashed potatoes for a comforting fusion twist!

If you’ve got more questions or unique tweaks, feel free to drop them in the comments below or reach out on @MoroccanFoodie. I love connecting with readers and fellow home chefs!