Pat 3-5 shoulder cut country style ribs dry with paper towels.
Season generously on all sides with 2 teaspoons salt, 2 teaspoons pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian herbs, and 1 teaspoon cumin.
Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
Add the ribs and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Remove the ribs from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add the diced onion and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
Place the seared ribs back into the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged in the braising liquid.
Add the diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
Stir in the Hungarian paprika paste, ensuring the vegetables are well-coated.
2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika paste
Add the fresh thyme and minced sage to the pot.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C).
Braise for 2-3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
Remove the thyme sprigs before serving.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Remove ribs from pot and let rest at least 10-15 minutes before shredding or serving.
Add 1 teaspoon Wondra flour or a flour slurry to sauce in pan, and bring sauce to a boil, then to a slow simmer until the desired thickness. If sauce is too thick, thin by adding 1 tablespoon water or stock at a time. Spoon sauce over rested ribs when it is at desired thickness.
Serve hot with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.