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Slow Cooker Short Rib Tacos

Tender, juicy slow-cooked beef short ribs in warm tortillas, topped with cilantro lime crema and zesty pickled onions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the short ribs
  • 2 pounds beef short ribs (bone-in for maximum flavor) Bone-in short ribs provide more flavor.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup beef broth (ensure halal-certified)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing the short ribs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
For assembly and toppings
  • Tortillas (corn or flour, your choice) Choose based on preference.
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced (optional) Add for extra creaminess.
  • Pickled onions, for topping
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the beef short ribs generously with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the short ribs on all sides until they're nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Slow Cooking
  1. In your slow cooker, layer the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom.
  2. Place the seared short ribs on top, then pour in your beef broth.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
Finishing Up
  1. Once cooked, remove the short ribs and shred the meat with two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat.
  2. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining juices.
  3. Warm your tortillas, then fill them with a generous amount of the shredded beef. Top with cilantro, avocado slices, and pickled onions.
  4. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

For maximum tenderness, opt for slow cooking on low for the full eight hours. Don't skip the searing step as it adds depth of flavor.