Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Cut the ribs into single rib pieces and place in a roasting pan; season with salt and pepper. Roast 30 minutes.
While this occurs, heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery and garlic and cook 4 to 5 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients and bring to a gentle simmer.
When the ribs have cooked 30 minutes, remove from the oven and carefully drain excess fat. Pour in the tomato mixture. Cover with foil and place back in the oven. Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F. Cook 1-1/2 hours, or until the meat is very tender and falling off the bone. Skim any fat from the surface of the ribs before serving.