Preheat oven to 375°F (190℃).
Thoroughly season short ribs with salt and pepper to cover all sides.
Heat oil in a Dutch oven or oven-safe pan over medium heat. Add short ribs and brown well, turning once, 2-3 minutes per side, until short ribs are brown. Do not overcrowd the pan, cooking in batches if necessary.
Drain excess oil from the skillet, leaving about two tablespoons of oil. Add onions, green onions, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, ginger, scotch bonnet pepper or hot sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent.
Then add ketchup, browning sauce, brown sugar, bell pepper, and broth (or water and bouillon). Bring to a boil, cover, and place in the oven for 2½-3 hours. Check periodically during the cooking process, and add more water as needed. Turn the ribs over halfway through the cooking time.
Adjust for salt, pepper, and consistency. Enjoy!!!