Name: Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Short Ribs (Trim excess fat); 3 tablespoons Gochujang Sauce (Can substitute with hoisin sauce for sweetness); 2 tablespoons Ginger (Fresh, finely grated); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced); 2 medium Shallots (Can substitute with yellow onion); 6 cups Beef Broth (Low-sodium recommended); 8 ounces Noodles (Ramen or udon preferred); 4 cups Spinach (Can use bok choy or frozen spinach); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Optional); 2 tablespoons Scallions (Sliced for garnish); 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (For garnish)

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As I watched a frosty drizzle settle on the window, my taste buds craved something comforting and bold. This brings me to the Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup, a steaming bowl of happiness that will warm your soul. Picture tender short ribs simmering in a rich, gingery broth, mingling with slurpy noodles and vibrant spinach. It’s the perfect antidote to chilly days, offering both quick prep and deep flavor in every comforting spoonful. With the magic of the Instant Pot, you can whip up this Asian-inspired dish faster than you ever thought possible, while customizing it to suit any dietary preference. Are you ready to elevate your soup game? Let’s dive into this cozy bowl of goodness!

Why should you love this soup?

Elevated Comfort: This Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup is a cozy masterpiece that combines complex flavors with ease of preparation.

Customizable: Whether you prefer beef, pork, or a hearty vegetarian base, this soup’s versatility ensures there’s something for everyone.

Speedy Preparation: Thanks to the Instant Pot, you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying a delicious meal.

Rich, Umami-Bomb Broth: Each spoonful features an aromatic broth infused with gingery warmth and the unique kick of gochujang, making it a flavor powerhouse.

Perfect for Gatherings: This one-pot wonder is perfect for feeding a crowd; simply increase the ingredients for a satisfying meal on game nights or chilly evenings.

Nutrient-Packed: With a beneficial mix of protein from the short ribs and iron from spinach, this soup nourishes the body while delighting the palate.

Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup Ingredients

For the Soup
• Short Ribs – The primary protein, delivering deep richness and tenderness when cooked slowly.
• Gochujang Sauce – Adds heat and umami; hoisin sauce can be used for a sweeter alternative.
• Ginger – Provides aromatic warmth; fresh ginger is highly recommended for the best flavor.
• Garlic & Shallots – Enhances the soup’s savory depth; feel free to substitute shallots with yellow onion if needed.
• Beef Broth – The base of the soup; opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.

For the Noodles and Greens
• Noodles – Absorb flavors of the broth; ramen or udon are perfect choices, but any thick noodles work well.
• Spinach – Adds color and nutrition; other greens like bok choy or cooked frozen spinach can be used instead.

For Finishing Touches
• Sesame Oil – Drizzle at the end for enhanced aroma and flavor; it’s optional but highly suggested.
• Scallions/Sesame Seeds – Use these for garnish to add a satisfying crunch and a fresh taste.

With these quality ingredients, your Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup will not only warm your home but also your heart!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add a splash of oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the short ribs, searing them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This step creates a flavorful base for your Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup.

Step 2: Add Aromatics
After the short ribs are beautifully browned, toss in minced garlic, shallots, and finely grated ginger. Stir the mixture for approximately 2-3 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant and softened, allowing the delightful aroma to fill your kitchen and deepen the flavor profile of your soup.

Step 3: Build the Broth
Once the aromatics are ready, add in the gochujang sauce along with tomato paste and beef broth. Stir well, ensuring everything is combined. Scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance the broth’s richness. This step infuses the broth with heat and umami, crucial for your Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup.

Step 4: Pressure Cook
Carefully return the seared short ribs to the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the flavorful broth. Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing, and select the high-pressure option. Cook for 40 minutes, letting the pressure naturally build, which will help tenderize the meat perfectly.

Step 5: Release Pressure
After the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to venting. As the steam escapes, listen for the hissing sound, and wait until the pin drops, signifying it’s safe to open the lid. Be cautious as you lift it off—the comforting aroma of your soup will greet you.

Step 6: Add Noodles & Spinach
Now, stir in your choice of noodles and fresh spinach to the pot. Switch the Instant Pot back to sauté mode and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the spinach is wilted. This step ensures your noodles absorb all the rich flavors of the broth.

Step 7: Serve
Ladle your steaming Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup into bowls, giving each serving a generous garnish of sliced scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. For a finishing touch, drizzle a little sesame oil over each bowl to elevate the soup’s aromatic profile and enjoy a cozy, heartwarming meal.

Expert Tips for Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup

Trim Fat: Ensure to trim excess fat from the short ribs to prevent a greasy broth and keep the soup clean and flavorful.
Dilute Gochujang: If using concentrated gochujang paste, dilute it with a bit of soy sauce and sweetener to mimic the sauce’s flavor without overpowering spice.
Vegetarian Options: Substitute the short ribs with marinated tofu or roasted mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version of your Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup.
Adjust Spice Levels: To cater to different spice tolerances, vary the amount of gochujang in your soup, and consider adding chili flakes for an extra kick.
Test Noodle Doneness: Make sure to monitor the cooking time of the noodles to ensure they remain perfectly al dente and absorb the broth’s delightful flavors.

Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup Variations

Feel free to take this delicious soup on a flavorful journey by customizing it to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Flank Steak: Swap short ribs for flank steak for a leaner, yet still tender, option that absorbs the broth’s delightful flavors beautifully.
Pork Love: Use pork shoulder or belly for a richer flavor profile; it adds a unique twist while keeping the soup equally cozy.
Gluten-Free Noodles: If you need to avoid gluten, swap out regular noodles for gluten-free options like rice noodles or quinoa pasta, maintaining that comforting texture.
Vegan Delight: Replace short ribs with marinated tofu or roasted mushrooms; they’ll soak up the broth while providing a substantial base for your soup.
Heat It Up: For an extra kick, toss in some sliced fresh jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to awaken those taste buds and enhance the spice level.
Veggie Boost: Add vibrant frozen peas or corn towards the end of cooking for a pop of color and sweetness that balances the savory broth.
Flavor Variation: Change up the heat profile by replacing gochujang with sambal oelek for a different type of spice and tang.

For more comforting dishes, consider adding a side of Short Rib Ragu or pairing with a warm bowl of Tortellini Soup Cozy. You can also explore Peanut Sweet Potato as a great option to accompany your meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup preparations are a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can sear the short ribs and prepare the broth up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor. For the best quality, store the cooked noodles separately to prevent them from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, reheat the broth in your Instant Pot, add the noodles and spinach, and simmer for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This way, you’ll have a delicious, heartwarming meal with minimal effort, allowing you to savor every comforting bite!

Storage Tips for Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool before sealing to retain freshness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened. Stir until heated through for a comforting bowl of Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup.

Serving Suggestions: Consider reheating and serving with a sprinkle of fresh scallions and sesame oil to revitalize flavors before enjoying.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup

When indulging in a steaming bowl of savory soup, it’s essential to think about complementary sides that elevate the whole experience.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm loaf will soak up the rich broth, making every bite delightful.
Pickled Vegetables: These add a zesty crunch, balancing the soup’s heat with their tangy freshness, making each spoonful exciting.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette introduces a refreshing contrast, enhancing the meal without overwhelming the flavors.
Steamed Bok Choy: Adding this tender green side brings not only vibrancy in color but also provides a mild bitterness that rounds out the meal beautifully.
Spicy Kimchi: For those who crave more heat, the fermented, spicy notes of kimchi will enhance the depth of flavor in the soup, creating an unforgettable pairing.
Sesame Oil Drizzle: Finish your soup with a drizzle of sesame oil both for added richness and a fragrant aroma that invites every spoonful.

Elevating your dining experience isn’t just about the soup—it’s about the delightful dance of flavors that surrounds it!

Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best short ribs?
Absolutely! When choosing short ribs, look for cuts that have a good amount of marbling; this ensures tenderness and flavor. The meat should be a vibrant red with minimal dark spots, which can indicate age. If possible, get them freshly cut from a trusted butcher for the best results.

What is the best way to store leftover soup?
Very importantly, let your Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. In the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, store it in the freezer, where it can last up to 3 months. Always label your containers with the date for easy tracking!

Can I freeze this soup? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your soup, pour cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remember to leave some headspace for the liquid to expand when frozen—around an inch should do. You can freeze it in single servings to make reheating even easier later!

What if my soup is too spicy?
No worries! If your Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup ends up being spicier than desired, you can balance the heat by adding more broth or a splash of cream or coconut milk to mellow the flavors. Alternatively, adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt can help to tone down the spice.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
The good news is that this soup is quite customizable! For a vegetarian or vegan option, replace the short ribs with marinated tofu or hearty roasted mushrooms. Always check ingredient labels for allergens, especially with the gochujang, which may contain gluten or other allergens. If cooking for pets, note that garlic and onions can be harmful, so be sure to set aside some without these ingredients for them!

How can I adjust the recipe for different types of meat?
Great question! To adapt this recipe, use flank steak, pork belly, or even chicken thighs instead of short ribs, cooking times will vary: flank steak cooks in about 20 minutes at high pressure, while chicken should be around 15-20 minutes. Just ensure meats reach a safe internal temperature to enjoy, and each will offer a unique flavor profile to your Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup!