Table of Contents
Introduction
Author Notes
Take a moment to imagine this—melt-in-your-mouth tender beef ribs infused with rich, smoky flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine, ready to steal the show at your next family meal or weekend cookout. That’s the magic of tortillas de res. Whether you’re a foodie, a home cook exploring Latin American flavors, or someone who loves indulging in bold meat dishes, this recipe will be your ultimate go-to for costilla de res asadas (grilled beef ribs).
This guide covers everything you need to know about preparing costilla de res in English, from choosing the perfect meat cut to serving it with authentic sides. By the end of this post, you’ll be fully prepared to recreate this traditional dish yourself.
Key Takeaways
- Costilla de res, also known as beef ribs in English, are a traditional Mexican dish known for their tenderness and smoky flavors.
- Perfect for backyard gatherings or family meals, they can be prepared on the grill, in the oven, or a slow cooker.
- This step-by-step guide includes a detailed recipe, preparation tips, serving suggestions, and variations to suit your style.
Costilla de Res Recipe Details
Ingredients with Amounts
Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic tortilla recipe:
- 4 lbs of costillas beef (beef short ribs or spare ribs are ideal)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 0.25 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp oregano (preferably Mexican)
- 1 tsp chili powder (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 cup of your favorite salsa or BBQ sauce for glazing
Preparation Steps
Follow this step-by-step guide to cooking the perfect costilla de Res.
Step 1: Prep the Ribs
Remove any extra fat from the ribs before starting. Wash them with cold water and gently pat dry using paper towels. Place the ribs on a clean surface or cutting board.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
Combine olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 3: Marinate the Costilla de Res
Place the ribs in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Cover the ribs with the marinade, making sure they are coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, ideally overnight, to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method
Grilling the Ribs (Costilla de Res Asadas)
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375°F/190°C).
- Remove the ribs from the marinade and place them directly on the grill grates.
- Grill for 1.5 to 2 hours, turning occasionally and brushing with salsa or BBQ sauce in the last 30 minutes.
Baking in the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the ribs on a foil-lined baking tray and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, removing the foil and glazing with salsa or BBQ sauce for the final 20 minutes.
Using a Slow Cooker
- Arrange the ribs in the slow cooker and pour in any remaining marinade.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, brushing with salsa or BBQ sauce during the last hour.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
Once cooked, allow the ribs to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Preparation & Cooking Times, Servings, and Yield
| Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 1-2 hours (time varies by method) | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours |
| Servings: 4-6 | Yield: 4 lbs of tender, flavorful beef ribs |
Cooking Tips
Cook’s Notes
- Always marinate the ribs overnight for more robust flavors.
- Indirect heat will prevent the ribs from burning while retaining their tenderness when grilling.
- For a smoky flavor on the grill, consider adding wood chips to your charcoal or gas grill.
Variations/Substitutions
Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? Here are some easy swaps and variations:
- Meat substitution: Try pork ribs if you don’t have beef.
- Spice variation: Use ancho or guajillo chilies for a deeper flavor.
- BBQ alternative: Use a honey mustard glaze for a sweeter touch.
- Vegetarian option: Marinate and grill portobello mushrooms or jackfruit for a plant-based twist.
Equipment Needed
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowl and whisk
- Ziplock bag or large dish for marinating
- Grill, oven, or slow cooker (based on your chosen cooking method)
- Brush for glazing
Nutrition & Serving
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| 380 | 30g | 5g | 25g |
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
| 750mg | |||
| Sodium |
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Costillas beef dish even further, consider these authentic serving ideas:
- Serve alongside Mexican rice and refried beans.
- Add warm tortillas to create tacos with the rib meat.
- Top your ribs with fresh cilantro, chopped onions, or queso fresco for added layers of flavor.
- Pair with a tangy guacamole or a zesty pico de gallo for a refreshing contrast.
Final Thoughts
Personal Touch
One of the best parts of this Costilla recipe is how customizable it is. Personalize it with your favorite seasonings or marinades. Some love adding a touch of honey for sweetness, while others go bolder with chipotle peppers for extra spice. Make this recipe your own!
Conclusion
Cooking costilla de res asanas might take some time, but the result is always worthwhile. Perfectly tender, flavorful, and versatile—these ribs will quickly become a staple in your home. Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, you’re on your way to unlocking more incredible Mexican dishes.
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FAQ
What are costilla de res in English?
Costilla de res, a savory and versatile cut of meat often used in Mexican cuisine, translates to “beef ribs” in English.
Can I prepare tortillas de res without marinating them?
While it’s possible, marination is highly recommended as it enhances flavor and tenderness. For the best results, marinate them overnight.
Can I freeze cooked costilla de res?
Absolutely! Cooked ribs can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Heat them in the oven or microwave until fully warmed.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem! Oven baking offers an excellent alternative that still delivers juicy, tender results.
Enjoy the process and savor every bite—with costilla de res, you’re serving more than a meal; you’re serving moments of joy and tradition.