Place a stainless steel pot over high heat on the stove.
Add salt and pepper to the shortribs.
When the pot is heated, sear the shortribs to obtain excellent color on all sides.
Remove from the fire and add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Cook for around four to five minutes with the heat set to medium.
Return the shortribs to the saucepan, along with the wine, crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and sugar.
Mix it up, then cover and reduce the heat to a simmer.
It will take between 2:40 and 3 hours for the meat to be cooked, stirring frequently.
When the meat is fork tender, take it from the pot, shred it, and return it to the ragu, stirring constantly.
Taste the ragu and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cool.