If you’re craving something with the rich, comforting flavors of ribs but want to skip the long cook time and messy bones, these Sweet Soy Garlic Sticky Ribs-Style Beef Short Bites are your new go-to. Tender beef short rib pieces are marinated in a luscious blend of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, then cooked until gloriously sticky and caramelized. Each bite packs a punch of savory, sweet, and aromatic goodness that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a party appetizer. Ready in under an hour, this recipe brings all the vibes of classic sticky ribs without the fuss.
Why Sweet Soy Garlic Sticky Ribs-Style Beef Short Bites is Worth Your Time
This recipe takes the beloved flavors of sticky ribs and transforms them into a convenient, bite-sized dish that’s easy to make and even easier to eat. Using beef short ribs cut into pieces means you get that rich, meaty flavor and tender texture without waiting hours for slow cooking. The combination of soy sauce and honey delivers a perfect balance of salty and sweet, while garlic and ginger add a fresh, aromatic edge. Plus, a touch of sesame oil and a garnish of green onions and sesame seeds bring a subtle nuttiness and vibrant finish.
Whether you’re serving these as a main dish alongside steamed rice or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Sweet Soy Garlic Sticky Ribs-Style Beef Short Bites are sure to impress. They’re also a fantastic way to introduce friends or family to bold, Asian-inspired flavors without complicated techniques or ingredients.
Ingredient List
- 2 pounds beef short ribs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Before You Start: Equipment
- Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For cutting the short ribs into bite-sized pieces.
- Mixing Bowls: One for the marinade and one for tossing beef with cornstarch.
- Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: For searing and cooking the beef bites.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: To ensure perfect balance of flavors.
- Tongs or Spatula: To flip and stir the beef while cooking.
The Method for Sweet Soy Garlic Sticky Ribs-Style Beef Short Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by trimming any excess fat off the beef short ribs, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. This makes them perfect for quick cooking and easy eating. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to help them brown nicely in the pan.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. This marinade is the flavor powerhouse that gives the dish its signature sticky, sweet-savory profile.
Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Add the beef pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and let it sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the fridge if you have more time. This step allows the meat to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Step 4: Coat the Beef with Cornstarch
Once marinated, remove the beef from the liquid (reserve the marinade) and toss the pieces in cornstarch. This will help create a beautiful sticky glaze when cooked and give the beef a slightly crispy exterior.
Step 5: Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef pieces in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and slightly crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 6: Make the Sticky Sauce
Lower the heat to medium, then pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Return the beef to the pan and toss to coat in the sticky sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to every bite.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the Sweet Soy Garlic Sticky Ribs-Style Beef Short Bites with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite sides. For a complete meal experience, you might enjoy pairing this with the Sticky Honey Soy Salmon Rice Bowls or the Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Skillet With Rice for a protein-packed dinner rotation.
Better Choices & Swaps
- Beef Alternatives: If you prefer, use boneless short ribs or chuck roast cut into cubes for a similar texture.
- Sweetener Swap: Replace honey with maple syrup or brown sugar for a slightly different sweetness profile.
- Soy Sauce Options: Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari can be used for gluten-free versions.
- Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best, but you can substitute with 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon ground ginger if needed.
- Cooking Oil: If you don’t have sesame oil, use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil and add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for that nutty flavor.
Don’t Do This
- Don’t skip marinating the beef — this step is key for flavor penetration.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing beef; it will steam rather than brown.
- Don’t use too high heat when simmering the sauce, or it can burn and become bitter.
- Don’t forget to toss the beef in cornstarch — it’s essential for that sticky, caramelized coating.
Prep Ahead & Store
You can marinate the beef up to 24 hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, toss with cornstarch and proceed with the recipe. Leftover Sweet Soy Garlic Sticky Ribs-Style Beef Short Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Common Qs About Sweet Soy Garlic Sticky Ribs-Style Beef Short Bites
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
While this recipe is designed for quick stovetop cooking, you can adapt it for a slow cooker by marinating the beef, then cooking it on low for 6-8 hours until tender. However, you’ll want to finish the dish by thickening the sauce in a skillet to achieve that sticky glaze.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Swap regular soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an easy adjustment.
What can I serve with these beef bites?
These Sweet Soy Garlic Sticky Ribs-Style Beef Short Bites pair beautifully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, sautéed greens, or simple cucumber salad. For a full meal, check out the Teriyaki Glazed Meatballs Turkey With Rice recipe for more Asian-inspired comfort food ideas.
Can I use chicken or pork instead of beef?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or pork shoulder cut into bite-sized pieces will work well with this marinade. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through and tender.
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Ready to Cook?
If you’re ready to dive into a dish bursting with sticky, sweet, and savory notes, this Sweet Soy Garlic Sticky Ribs-Style Beef Short Bites recipe is waiting for you. It’s an easy way to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Gather your ingredients, preheat your pan, and get ready for some seriously addictive bites that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the bold, comforting taste of these sticky beef bites with your favorite sides, and watch them disappear fast!
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Sweet Soy Garlic Sticky Ribs-Style Beef Short Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Trim any excess fat off the beef short ribs, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper to make the marinade.
- Add the beef pieces to the marinade, coat well, cover and let sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- Remove the beef from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and toss the pieces in cornstarch to coat.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef pieces in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium and pour reserved marinade into skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Return beef to pan and toss to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Turn off heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite sides.
Notes
- Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes to ensure full flavor absorption.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing to get a nice browned crust on the beef.
- Use low heat when simmering the sauce to prevent burning and bitterness.
