Char-Grilled Short Ribs with Pomegranate & Fennel

Mar 03, 2026

Char-Grilled Short Ribs with Pomegranate & Fennel (AVG,Soy)

Savor the bold elegance of the 2026 Kentucky Derby with these official Char Grilled Short Ribs with Pomegranate and Fennel, served onsite at Churchill Downs. Slow roasted until fork tender, then finished with a beautiful char, these boneless short ribs deliver rich, smoky flavor worthy of Derby Day.

A luscious pomegranate glaze reduced with balsamic and honey adds a glossy, sweet savory finish, while a crisp shaved fennel salad with fresh lemon brings brightness and balance. Topped with vibrant pomegranate arils, this dish captures the sophistication and celebratory spirit of the Kentucky Derby menu.

Perfect for a Kentucky Derby party, upscale Derby Day dinner, or Kentucky Oaks celebration, these char grilled short ribs offer a restaurant quality main course inspired by the hospitality and heritage of Churchill Downs.

Download the recipe card (PDF) >

Ingredients

• 6 lbs boneless short ribs
• 2 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Pomegranate Glaze

• 1 cup pomegranate juice
• 2 tbsp balsamic
• 2 tbsp honey
• Reduce to syrup.

Fennel Salad

• 2 fennel bulbs, shaved thin
• Juice 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste

Method

1.        Season ribs overnight.

2.        Roast 325 degrees F covered 2.5–3 hrs until tender.

3.        Finish on grill or broiler for char.

4.        Brush glaze.

5.        Top with fennel & pomegranate arils.

AVG = Avoiding Gluten

Soy = Contains Soy