Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup

Indulge in a comforting bowl of Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup, where tender beef short ribs meet a flavorful, gingery broth, all brought together effortlessly in the Instant Pot. This dish offers a harmonious blend of heat, umami, and satisfying textures, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: Utilizing the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while enhancing the depth of flavors.
• Rich and Spicy Broth: The combination of gochujang sauce and fresh aromatics creates a broth that’s both spicy and deeply savory.
• Tender Short Ribs: Pressure cooking ensures the beef becomes exceptionally tender, complementing the chewy noodles perfectly.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your spice tolerance and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Short ribs (meat removed from bone, fat trimmed, cut into small chunks)
• Gochujang sauce
• Tomato paste
• Fresh ginger, minced
• Garlic cloves, crushed or minced
• Shallot, thinly sliced
• Beef broth
• Dry ramen noodles or other stir-fry noodles
• Spinach (optional)
• Scallions, sesame seeds, and/or sesame oil for garnish

Directions

1. Sear the Short Ribs: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Season the short ribs generously with salt and sear them without disturbing until browned on all sides.
2. Add Aromatics: To the pot, add gochujang sauce, tomato paste, minced ginger, crushed garlic, and sliced shallots. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pressure Cook: Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the meat is submerged. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release.
4. Cook the Noodles: Switch the Instant Pot back to sauté mode. Add the dry noodles to the pot and cook until they are softened to your liking.
5. Prepare Spinach (Optional): While the noodles cook, optionally sauté spinach in a separate pan until wilted.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a portion of beef, noodles, and broth. Top with sautéed spinach if using, and garnish with sliced scallions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sesame oil.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 2-4 servings.
• Preparation Time: About 10 minutes.
• Cooking Time: Approximately 40 minutes, including pressure build-up and release.

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute short ribs with other cuts like chuck roast or even chicken thighs for a different take.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and add hearty vegetables or tofu in place of meat.
• Noodle Choices: While ramen noodles are traditional, feel free to use udon, rice noodles, or any preferred variety.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: Modify the amount of gochujang sauce to control the heat according to your preference.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If the noodles have absorbed too much broth, add a splash of beef broth or water to adjust consistency.

FAQs

What is gochujang sauce, and where can I find it?

Gochujang sauce is a Korean condiment made from red chili paste, offering a spicy and umami flavor. It’s commonly available in the international aisle of most supermarkets or at Asian grocery stores.

Can I make this soup less spicy?

Yes, reduce the amount of gochujang sauce to lower the spice level, or opt for a milder chili paste.

Is it necessary to trim the short ribs before cooking?

Trimming excess fat helps prevent an overly greasy broth and results in a cleaner flavor.

Can I use bone-in short ribs?

Yes, but be aware that cooking with bones may increase the fat content in the broth. Skimming the fat before serving can help manage this.

How can I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?

Cook the noodles just until al dente and serve immediately. If planning for leftovers, consider storing the noodles separately from the broth.

Can I freeze this soup?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the broth and meat. Add freshly cooked noodles upon reheating for optimal texture.

What vegetables can I add to this soup?

Besides spinach, consider adding bok choy, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I make the broth richer?

Using a high-quality beef broth and allowing the soup to simmer a bit longer after pressure cooking can enhance the depth of flavor.

Can I prepare this without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker or stovetop method, though cooking times will be longer to achieve tender meat.

What are suitable garnishes for this soup?

In addition to scallions and sesame seeds, consider adding a soft-boiled egg, nori strips, or a squeeze of lime for extra zest.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup combines the convenience of pressure cooking with the rich flavors of a traditional, slow-simmered broth. Its adaptability allows you to tailor the ingredients to your taste

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