Choosing the best short ribs involves looking for meatiness and marbling. You want short ribs that offer a rich flavor and tender texture after cooking.
Here's a breakdown of what to look for:
- Meat Quantity: The most important factor is the amount of meat. Look for short ribs that are meaty, with a solid inch and a half or more of meat on top of the bones. This ensures you'll have plenty to enjoy after the ribs braise or cook.
- Marbling: Good marbling (the streaks of fat within the muscle) is crucial for flavor and tenderness. The meat should be visibly marbled with fat. This fat renders during cooking, keeping the meat moist and adding flavor.
- Fat Cap: While some fat is desirable, avoid short ribs with an excessive fat cap. There can be a thin cap of fat on top of that, but it shouldn't be excessive. Too much fat will need to be trimmed and can make the ribs greasy.
In summary, prioritize meaty short ribs with good marbling and a reasonable amount of surface fat.
