Season short ribs with salt. Heat a heavy bottom pot and add vegetable oil. Sear short ribs on all sides until golden brown.
Meanwhile, heat braising liquid to a simmer. Transfer short ribs to a casserole dish, cover with hot braising liquid, cover casserole, and cook in the oven for 1 1/2-2 hours, until short ribs are fall off the bone tender. Garnish with a few pods of star anise.