Transform your next barbecue or braising session with packer short ribs, the ultimate cut for serious meat lovers who crave rich, fall-off-the-bone tenderness. These generously-sized beef short ribs come from the chuck, plate, or rib areas of the cow and feature abundant marbling that creates incredibly flavorful and succulent results when cooked low and slow. Packer short ribs are typically sold in larger, uncut portions that allow you to customize your preparation and portioning according to your specific cooking needs.
This versatile cut shines in traditional American barbecue culture, where pitmasters prize them for smoking, as well as in Korean cuisine where galbi-style preparations showcase their natural beef flavor. The high fat content and connective tissue in packer short ribs make them perfect for braising, slow roasting, or smoking for 8-12 hours until they reach that coveted tender texture. Popular cooking methods include wrapping in foil partway through smoking, braising in red wine or beef stock, or preparing them Korean-style with soy sauce, garlic, and Asian pear marinades.
For best results, plan ahead since packer short ribs require patience and low temperatures to break down properly. They pair beautifully with robust sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or tangy coleslaw that can balance their rich, beefy flavor. Whether you're planning an outdoor smoking session, preparing a cozy winter braise, or exploring Korean barbecue at home, packer short ribs deliver restaurant-quality results that will impress family and guests alike.