Beef short ribs cooked in coconut milk create a comforting dish with deep, rich flavors.
The tender meat, paired with creamy coconut milk and fragrant spices, makes this recipe a favorite for many. It’s easy to prepare and works well as a weeknight dinner or a special meal.
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, flatbreads, or fresh salads. The simple ingredients make it accessible, even if you’re not a seasoned cook.
Quick Summary:
- Cooking Time: 2 hours
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Serving: 4
- Calorie: 450 per serving
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef short ribs
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or coconut oil works best)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
- 1 cup beef stock or water
- 1-2 tablespoons soy sauce (or fish sauce for a deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Pat the beef short ribs dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper on all sides.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
Heat oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the short ribs and cook until browned on all sides.
This step locks in flavor. Remove the ribs and set them aside.
Step 3: Saute Aromatics
In the same pot, sauté onions until softened. Add garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Stir for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Simmer the Dish
Return the short ribs to the pot. Pour in coconut milk and beef stock. Add soy sauce and sugar. Stir gently.
Cover and simmer on low heat for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Taste the sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Top Tips
- Browning the meat adds flavor. Don’t skip this step.
- Use good-quality coconut milk for a richer sauce.
- Keep the heat low to prevent the coconut milk from curdling.
- Skim off excess oil from the surface if needed.
Variations
Spicy Version
Add more chilies or a teaspoon of chili paste for a spicy kick.
Veggie Addition
Include carrots or potatoes. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Herb Swap
Try Thai basil or mint instead of cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
This easy beef short ribs in coconut milk recipe brings big flavors with minimal effort.
The creamy sauce, tender ribs, and warm spices make it a meal everyone will love.
Serve with rice or bread to soak up the sauce, and enjoy a comforting, homemade dish.