Asian-Spiced Short Ribs

Jean-Georges Vongerichten sprinkles ribs with ground fennel before braising them in an East-West blend of fish sauce, soy sauce and Syrah.

Slideshow: Amazing Short Ribs

Preheat the oven to 325°. Light a grill. Season the ribs with salt and fennel. Grill over high heat, turning, until charred all over, 12 minutes. Transfer to a flameproof roasting pan.
In a large bowl, mix the ketchup, wine, vinegar, molasses, onion flakes, fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, chipotle, sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Whisk in the water. Pour over the ribs and bring to a simmer.
Cover the pan and braise, turning the ribs once, until very tender, 2 1/2 hours.
Transfer the sauce to a large saucepan and boil over high heat until reduced to 4 cups, 1 hour; cover. Keep the ribs warm in a 200° oven.
Increase the oven temperature to 350°. Pour the sauce over the ribs and roast until glazed, about 15 minutes.

Serve With Polenta or cheese grits.

Suggested Pairing

Spicy, juicy California red blend.