Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with these mouthwatering Tex Mex Beef Short Ribs! Imagine tender, fall-off-the-bone meat infused with bold, spicy Mexican-inspired flavors that will transport you straight to a sizzling cantina. This recipe is not just a meal - it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, and maybe even your secret recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Season the beef short ribs generously with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin, making sure to coat all sides of the meat evenly.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and sear the short ribs on all sides until they develop a deep brown crust, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the short ribs from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Transfer the covered pot to the preheated oven and braise for
- 5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is extremely tender and begins to fall off the bone.
- Remove from the oven and let the short ribs rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Optional: If desired, skim off any excess fat from the surface of the sauce and reduce it on the stovetop for a more concentrated flavor.
- Serve the short ribs hot, accompanied by the rich tomato-based sauce, and pair with rice, beans, or warm tortillas.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Look for well-marbled short ribs with good meat coverage for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Searing is Crucial: Take your time when browning the ribs. A deep, golden-brown crust develops incredible depth of flavor that will make these short ribs unforgettable.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Braising at a low temperature ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender without drying out.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the meat to rest after cooking helps redistribute the juices, keeping the ribs moist and succulent.
- Enhance the Sauce: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of tequila or a handful of chopped chipotle peppers to the braising liquid.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These short ribs actually taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare them in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 120mg
