beef

Beef Short Rib Tacos

Fall-off-the-bone braised beef short ribs piled into warm tortillas with pickled onions and cilantro. Slow-cooked perfection meets street taco vibes.

By chemiztryApril 4, 2026
Beef Short Rib Tacos
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
3 hours
Servings
6

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs bone-in beef short ribs
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
  • Corn or flour tortillas
  • Pickled red onions, cilantro, lime wedges for topping

Instructions

  1. 1

    Season short ribs generously with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

  2. 2

    Heat oil in a Dutch oven over high heat. Sear short ribs on all sides until deeply browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic, cook for 3-4 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and chipotle peppers.

  4. 4

    Pour in beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.

  5. 5

    Return short ribs to the pot. Bring to a simmer, cover, and transfer to a 325°F oven.

  6. 6

    Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is fork-tender and falling off the bone.

  7. 7

    Remove ribs, shred the meat, and discard bones. Toss meat with some of the braising liquid.

  8. 8

    Serve in warm tortillas topped with pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

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