Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs for Comforting Feasts

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

The moment you lift the lid off your slow cooker, an incredible aroma envelops your kitchen, transporting you straight to a bustling marketplace in India. The rich, fragrant spices of Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs fill the air, making it impossible to resist sneaking a taste. This dish, with its tender, melt-in-your-mouth ribs swimming in a luxurious spiced sauce, is the ultimate comfort meal, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.

I found this gem while exploring the depths of my spice cabinet, and it quickly became a favorite for those who crave hearty, soul-soothing flavors without breaking the bank. Imagine serving this crowd-pleaser alongside warm naan and a dollop of cooling yogurt trust me, it s a combination that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds! Whether you re a seasoned chef or looking to elevate your weeknight dinners, this budget-friendly recipe promises to transform your dining experience with its aromatic allure and delightful depth of flavor.

Why is Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs a Must-Try?

Aromatic Nickname: This recipe offers a delightful journey through Indian cuisine, filling your kitchen with enticing scents that instantly uplift your mood.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tenderness: The slow-cooked beef turns incredibly tender, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth, creating a comforting experience.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is a showstopper at any family dinner, making it easy to impress without extensive culinary skills.
Budget-Friendly Delight: Using affordable ingredients, this recipe allows you to serve a luxurious meal without straining your wallet.
Versatile Pairings: Serve it with naan, rice, or even a fresh salad, adapting to what you have on hand or your guests preferences.
Meal Prep Marvel: Make it ahead of time for busy weeknights; the flavors deepen with time, offering a hearty dish that s even better reheated!

Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs Ingredients

Get ready for a flavorful feast!

For the Ribs

• Beef Short Ribs These tender cuts are ideal for slow cooking, soaking up all the spice flavors perfectly.
• Plain Flour A light dusting helps brown the meat and thicken the sauce; cornstarch works well for a gluten-free version.
• Salt and Pepper Simple seasonings that enhance the flavor feel free to adjust to your taste!
• Vegetable Oil Used for browning the ribs; olive oil can be a good substitute, though it may change the flavor slightly.

For the Sauce

• Red Onions These create a fragrant base; shallots are a milder substitute if preferred.
• Rogan Josh Simmer Sauce This essential ingredient offers deep, rich spice flavors homemade versions can work wonders too!
• Tinned Tomatoes They add acidity and moisture to the sauce; fresh tomatoes can be substituted, just adjust the amounts.
• Beef Stock Adds a hearty depth; chicken stock or vegetable broth can be swapped for a lighter version.

For Garnish and Serving

• Coriander (Cilantro) Fresh sprinkle adds a burst of color and brightness; it can be omitted if you re out.
• Naan Bread/Roti Perfect for scooping up the flavorful sauce and ribs don t skip this classic pairing!
• Greek Yogurt This cooling agent on the side balances the spices beautifully; dairy-free yogurt is a great alternative for vegans.
• Mango Chutney A sweet and spicy condiment that elevates the dish s flavors opt for store-bought or whip up a homemade version!

How to Make Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs

1. Preheat your oven to 170 °C (150 °C fan-forced). This initial step prepares your cooking environment for those tender, flavor-packed ribs.

2. Season the flour with salt and pepper, then lightly dust the beef short ribs. This will create a delicious crust when browning that helps lock in moisture.

3. Heat the oil in a large flame-proof casserole pan over medium heat. Brown the ribs in batches on all sides until evenly golden; then, transfer them to a plate. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the final dish.

4. Add any remaining oil to the same pan and cook the red onions for 2-3 minutes until softened. Let those aromatic flavors fill your kitchen!

5. Stir in the Rogan Josh simmer sauce, tinned tomatoes, and beef stock. Bring this mixture to a boil watch as the ingredients marry together in mesmerizing harmony.

6. Return the browned ribs to the pan, thoroughly coat them in the sauce, and lay them meat-side down. Ensure they re well covered; this will enhance tenderness during cooking.

7. Cover the casserole and bake in the preheated oven for 3 hours or until the ribs are incredibly tender. The baking process allows all those amazing spices to work their magic.

8. Sprinkle with fresh coriander before serving. Pair with warm naan, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a side of mango chutney for a delightful feast.

Optional: Serve with a side of basmati rice for a complete meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as they meld, making for an even more delightful meal!

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef stock or water to maintain moisture. Each bite of these Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs will feel like a warm hug!

Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs Variations

Feel free to personalize this comforting dish and elevate it to your unique taste!

• Lamb Shanks: Swap beef ribs with lamb for a rich, flavorful variation that offers a different but equally sumptuous experience.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ribs with hearty jackfruit or tofu, adding more spices to mimic the traditional flavors while keeping it plant-based.

• Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, stir in chopped green chilies or cayenne pepper while cooking the sauce for a fiery twist.

• Extra Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas into the sauce for a nutritious boost packed with texture and color.

• Coconut Cream: Add a splash of coconut cream to the sauce for a creamy, tropical flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

• Fruit Infusion: Toss in some dried apricots or raisins during cooking for a subtle sweet and savory contrast that enhances the overall profile.

• Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or parsley instead of coriander for a fresh, aromatic twist on the classic garnish.

• Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted almonds or cashews on top before serving to add an enjoyable crunch and depth to your dish.

What to Serve with Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs?

Serving this comforting dish opens up a world of delightful pairings that will elevate your dining experience.

• Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for scooping up the flavorful sauce and tender ribs, creating a perfectly balanced bite.

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, rice soaks up the rich Rogan Josh sauce, offering a wonderful contrast to the spiced meats.

• Greek Yogurt: This cooling side helps balance the heat of the spices, providing a refreshing contrast alongside the robust flavors of the ribs.

• Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy, this condiment adds a burst of flavor that complements the hearty dish beautifully, enhancing each bite.

• Cucumber Salad: Fresh and crunchy, a cucumber salad brings brightness to the meal and provides a refreshing palate cleanser amidst the richness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies like carrots and bell peppers add color and wholesome nutrition, rounding out your plate with a healthful touch.

• Lassi: A creamy yogurt drink that offers a cooling effect to balance spices, making it a delightful drink to serve with this dish.

• Cardamom Spiced Tea: A warming tea infused with cardamom makes for a comforting drink that harmonizes with the meal s exotic flavors.

These pairings not only complement the Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs but also enhance the overall dining experience, making it feel special and indulgent.

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on hectic weeknights! You can prep the ribs by dusting them with seasoned flour and browning them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the browned ribs in an airtight container until you re ready to continue. Additionally, the sauce can be made in advance and stored separately for up to 3 days; just combine the simmer sauce, tomatoes, and stock, then refrigerate. When you re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the ribs, and bake until gloriously tender this way, you ll have a comforting dinner without the last-minute rush, all while maintaining that irresistible depth of flavor!

Expert Tips for Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs

• Browning Matters: Ensure ribs are well-browned before simmering; this step adds a rich, complex flavor to your slow-cooked Rogan Josh beef short ribs.

• Monitor Sauce Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce while baking; if it thickens too much, add a splash of water or more stock to keep it luscious.

• Check for Tenderness: Use a meat thermometer to determine doneness; for perfect ribs, the meat should ideally fall off the bone with ease.

• Flavor Development: Consider making this dish a day ahead; the flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it an even more comforting meal.

• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process; a pinch more salt or spice can elevate your dish to perfection.

Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best beef short ribs?
Absolutely! When selecting beef short ribs, look for cuts that are well-marbled and have a good amount of fat. The marbling ensures tenderness and flavor during the slow cooking process. I often recommend choosing ribs that appear moist and fresh, avoiding any that have dark spots or discoloration.

How should I store leftovers of Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs?
You can store any leftover beef short ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them flavorful and moist, I suggest adding a splash of the sauce before sealing the container. If you want to enjoy them later, place them in airtight containers and freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the ribs to cool completely after cooking. Place the ribs along with the sauce in airtight freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. When ready to indulge, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth to keep the sauce silky.

What should I do if my sauce becomes too thick during baking?
No worries! If your sauce thickens too much while baking, you can easily remedy this by adding a splash of water or more beef stock to the dish. Stir it gently to incorporate the liquid. It s all about keeping that luscious texture, which is essential for a comforting meal!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you re serving to guests, keep in mind that this dish contains beef and gluten (from the flour), so if any of your loved ones have dietary restrictions, consider using cornstarch for dusting and substituting beef stock with a vegetarian broth. For a vegan meal, you can also replace the beef with vegetables or plant-based protein and follow the same method.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! This dish is actually ideal for meal prep! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors deepen as they sit, making it even more delicious when reheated. Just remember to reheat it gently to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy the comforting taste of Slow Cooked Rogan Josh Beef Short Ribs any day of the week!