BBQ Short Ribs from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue feature tender, slow-cooked beef ribs glazed with a savory and sweet barbecue sauce, served with a side of steamed rice and a sprinkling of sesame seeds, delivering a mouthwatering combination of smoky, juicy flavors and hearty satisfaction.
Equipments
- Grill or barbecue
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Saucepan
- Steamer or rice cooker
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Plate or serving tray
Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup mirin (or sweet rice wine)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 5 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 cups jasmine or medium-grain rice
When selecting beef short ribs, choose well-marbled cuts to ensure tenderness and rich flavor after slow cooking. Soy sauce serves as the primary salty base in the marinade, so use a quality brand to enhance the depth of the BBQ sauce. Mirin or sweet rice wine adds a subtle sweetness and complexity, but if unavailable, you can substitute with a combination of white wine and sugar. Fresh garlic and ginger are essential for authentic savory notes, so avoid pre-minced versions when possible. Your homemade BBQ Short Ribs from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue will capture the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors, just like the restaurant's signature dish.
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, mirin, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper.
- Cut green onions and set aside for garnish.
- Place beef short ribs in the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly.
- Cover and marinate the ribs in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook rice in a rice cooker or steamer according to package instructions.
- Preheat grill or barbecue to medium-high heat.
- Remove ribs from marinade and let excess liquid drip off.
- Grill short ribs, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred (about 5-7 minutes per side).
- Pour leftover marinade into a saucepan and bring to a boil, then simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
- Use a basting brush to glaze ribs with thickened sauce during grilling.
- Slice cooked ribs, if desired, using a knife and cutting board.
- Arrange steamed rice on a plate or serving tray.
- Place grilled short ribs next to rice.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over ribs.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
BBQ Short Ribs from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue copycat menu require slow cooking to achieve tender meat, but you can substitute beef short ribs with boneless beef chuck for a quicker option, though the texture will differ slightly. If mirin is unavailable, a mixture of dry white wine and a pinch of sugar serves as an effective replacement to maintain the sweet flavor profile. When substituting jasmine rice, medium-grain rice works well, but avoid long-grain varieties to preserve the stickier texture typical of Hawaiian dishes. Using a grill enhances smoky notes, yet an oven or slow cooker can substitute for outdoor cooking when weather or equipment is limited. Your marinade's balance of soy sauce, honey, and vinegar is crucial, so adjust sweetness or acidity according to personal taste during preparation.
Tips
Make sure to marinate the short ribs for at least 4 hours or overnight to maximize flavor absorption and tenderness. When grilling, avoid overcrowding the ribs on the grill to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming instead of charring. Use a basting brush to apply the thickened marinade multiple times while grilling to create a glossy, caramelized glaze. Your jasmine or medium-grain rice should be rinsed thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and yield fluffy, separate grains.
Nutritions
BBQ Short Ribs from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue provide a high-protein meal rich in essential amino acids, ideal for muscle repair and growth. The marinade's soy sauce delivers a moderate sodium content, while honey and brown sugar contribute natural sugars for quick energy. Jasmine rice serves as a good source of carbohydrates, supporting your body's energy needs during the day. Sesame seeds add healthy fats and minerals like calcium and magnesium, enhancing the dish's overall nutritional profile.
Storage
Store leftover BBQ Short Ribs in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly, consuming within 3 to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. For longer storage, freeze the ribs separated from the rice in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, labeling with the date for up to 2 to 3 months. Reheat ribs gently on the grill or in a covered pan to preserve their tender texture and saucy glaze before serving your meal again.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute beef short ribs with pork ribs or boneless beef chuck for a leaner or more tender texture. Try adding a splash of pineapple juice to the marinade to introduce a tangy sweetness that enhances the smoky flavors. Instead of grilling, slow-cook the ribs in a covered pan or oven at low heat for several hours to achieve melting tenderness. Experiment with serving your BBQ ribs over fried rice or mixed vegetables to add variety and extra nutrients to the meal.
Allergies
BBQ Short Ribs from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy due to the soy sauce used in the marinade. Sesame seeds and sesame oil present in the dish are common allergens that can trigger reactions ranging from mild to severe. Your allergen concerns should also consider ingredients like garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar, which can affect those with specific food sensitivities.
Why this recipe?
BBQ Short Ribs from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue offer a perfect balance of tender, juicy meat infused with a rich, smoky marinade that captures the essence of authentic Hawaiian flavors. The ribs are cooked to fall-off-the-bone perfection, making each bite a satisfying experience. You can recreate this iconic dish at home to enjoy the same savory satisfaction and impress friends with your culinary skills. The combination of sweet and savory notes in the BBQ Short Ribs makes them a standout menu item worth mastering.