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To make these tacos special, gather the following main ingredients: - 2 lbs beef short ribs - 1 cup non-alcoholic apple cider - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 teaspoons ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 8 small corn tortillas These ingredients create a rich and tender filling for your tacos. The apple cider adds a sweet and tangy flavor, perfect for the beef. Here are some tasty toppings and sides you can add to your tacos: - 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 1 medium jalapeño, sliced (optional for heat) - 1 cup red cabbage, shredded - Lime wedges for serving These toppings add freshness and crunch. The lime juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the meat. To make cooking easier, use these kitchen tools: - Large heavy pot or Dutch oven - Wooden spoon - Two forks for shredding meat - Skillet for warming tortillas Having the right tools makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. You’ll find that each step flows better when you are well-prepared. For the full recipe, check out the details above! Begin by seasoning the beef short ribs with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat all sides. This step is key for flavor. Next, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes. You want a nice brown crust. After browning, take the ribs out and set them aside. In the same pot, add the diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and clear. Stir often to prevent burning. After that, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. This will make your kitchen smell amazing! Now, stir in the ground cumin and smoked paprika. This mix adds depth to your dish and coats the onions and garlic. Next, pour in the apple cider. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck to the pot. This adds flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are mostly covered by the cider. Cover the pot and lower the heat. Let the ribs cook for 2.5 to 3 hours. You want them fork-tender and easy to shred. When done, take them out to cool a bit and get ready for taco assembly. For the complete cooking guide, check the Full Recipe. When picking beef short ribs, look for meat that has good marbling. Marbling is the white fat inside the meat. This fat makes the ribs tender and juicy. Choose ribs that feel heavy and have a pinkish-red color. Avoid ribs that look dry or brown. Fresh short ribs will give you the best flavor for your cider braised short rib street tacos. Seasoning is key to great taste. Start by using salt and pepper on the short ribs. Be generous. This brings out the meat's natural flavors. After that, add spices like ground cumin and smoked paprika. They add warmth and depth. Mix the spices well with the sautéed onion and garlic. This step makes your dish more flavorful and aromatic as it cooks. Time plays a big role in flavor. For the best results, braise the short ribs for 2.5 to 3 hours. Low and slow cooking breaks down tough fibers, making the meat tender. Check the ribs occasionally. If they start to dry out, add a bit more cider or water. This helps keep them juicy and full of flavor. For a full guide on making these delicious tacos, refer to the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can swap beef short ribs with other meats. Pulled pork is a great choice. It has a nice, juicy flavor. You can also use chicken thighs for a lighter option. Beef brisket works well too, giving a rich taste. If you like lamb, that can bring a unique twist. Each meat pairs nicely with the cider braising method. The base recipe is fantastic, but feel free to mix it up! Try adding a chipotle sauce for a smoky kick. You can also use a sweet BBQ sauce for a different flavor. For a zesty touch, a cilantro-lime sauce can brighten the dish. Don’t forget to experiment with spices. Adding some chili powder or even a pinch of cinnamon can change the game. To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, use jackfruit. It resembles pulled meat and absorbs flavors well. Another option is to use mushrooms, which add a hearty texture. For the braising liquid, replace apple cider with vegetable broth. Add some spices to boost the flavor. Topping with fresh veggies like avocado or pickled onions adds a nice crunch. Keep it colorful and flavorful! You can find the full recipe for Cider Braised Short Rib Street Tacos to guide you through this process. Enjoy making your own delicious variations! To store your cider braised short rib street tacos, let them cool first. Place the shredded meat and toppings in separate airtight containers. This keeps everything fresh. The meat will stay good for up to three days in the fridge. The tortillas can last about two days but are best eaten fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy your tacos again, reheat the meat in a pot. Heat it over low heat, stirring often. This warms it without drying it out. For the tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. This brings back their softness. If you want to save for later, freezing is a great option. Place the shredded meat in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out any air to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat as mentioned above. For the best taste, avoid freezing the fresh toppings. They are best enjoyed fresh, right before serving. For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe]. Reheating Cider Braised Short Rib Tacos is easy. You can use a skillet or the microwave. For the skillet, heat it on medium. Add the tacos and warm them for about 2-3 minutes per side. This keeps the tortillas soft and the meat warm. In the microwave, place the tacos on a plate. Heat for about 30-60 seconds. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Yes, you can make these tacos ahead of time. The short ribs can be cooked and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat the meat before serving. You can also prep the toppings in advance. Store them in separate containers in the fridge. This makes taco night quick and easy! You can find similar tacos at many Mexican restaurants and food trucks. Look for places that focus on gourmet tacos or street food. Some places might even offer variations with unique ingredients. Ask your friends for recommendations or check food apps to find the best spots near you. Enjoy exploring different flavors! For the full recipe, visit my detailed guide on making Cider Braised Short Rib Street Tacos. Cider braised short rib street tacos bring bold flavors to your table. You learned about essential ingredients, preparation steps, and helpful tips to make them shine. I covered variations for different diets and how to store leftovers properly. Remember, choosing the right meat and perfecting your seasoning is key. Keep exploring these delicious options and enjoy each bite. Happy cooking!

Cider Braised Short Rib Street Tacos

Discover the deliciousness of Cider Braised Short Rib Street Tacos! With tender beef short ribs simmered in non-alcoholic apple cider, these tacos are bursting with flavor. Learn how to season, sear, and braise to perfection, all while adding fresh toppings like cilantro and spicy jalapeños. Perfect for your next gathering, these easy-to-make tacos will impress everyone. Click through for the full recipe and elevate your taco night!

Ingredients
  

2 lbs beef short ribs

1 cup non-alcoholic apple cider

1 medium onion, finely diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

8 small corn tortillas

1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 medium jalapeño, sliced (optional for heat)

1 cup red cabbage, shredded

Lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Short Ribs: Begin by generously seasoning the beef short ribs with salt and pepper on all sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat during cooking.

    Sear the Ribs: In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned short ribs and sear them until they are beautifully browned on all sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. After browning, remove the ribs from the pot and set them aside on a plate.

      Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the finely diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue sautéing for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin and smoked paprika, ensuring the onions and garlic are coated evenly with the spices, releasing their aromatic flavors.

          Deglaze with Cider: Pour the apple cider into the pot, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

            Braise the Short Ribs: Return the seared short ribs to the pot, ensuring that they are submerged in the apple cider mixture. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the ribs to braise gently for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.

              Prepare the Toppings: While the short ribs are braising, prepare the toppings. Chop the fresh cilantro, slice the jalapeños if using, and shred the red cabbage. Set these aside for taco assembly.

                Shred the Meat: Once the short ribs are fully cooked, carefully remove them from the pot and let them cool slightly. Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any bones and excess fat for a leaner filling.

                  Warm the Tortillas: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side, until they are soft and pliable, making them easy to fold.

                    Assemble the Tacos: Take a warmed tortilla and place a generous portion of shredded short rib in the center. Top with a layer of shredded red cabbage, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and a few slices of jalapeño for an optional kick.

                      Serve: Before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over the assembled tacos for a zesty finish.

                        Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 8

                          - Presentation Tips: Arrange the tacos neatly on a vibrant serving platter, garnishing with additional lime wedges for a pop of color. Serve with a side of extra apple cider to enhance the meal's delightful flavors!