Salt and pepper short ribs. Heat a large skillet until almost smoking. Place ribs in the skillet and brown each side. In a large pot, combine the rest of the ingredients (withholding leeks, carrots and yams) and bring to a simmer. Once the short ribs are browned, remove them from the skillet and place in pot with the remaining braising liquid. Add the chopped leeks, carrots and yams. Cover. Let short ribs braise for 90 minutes to 2 hours over low heat. Remove from pot, and serve.