Name: Savor These Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs Tonight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 737 min
Ingredients: 2-3 pounds Flanken-style short ribs (Beef short ribs can be used if flanken is not available.); ½ cup Soy sauce (Tamari is a gluten-free alternative.); ½ cup Vegetable or olive oil (Any neutral oil works well.); ⅓ cup White vinegar (Apple cider vinegar can also be an option.); 1-2 tsp White pepper (You can opt for black pepper instead.); 1 tsp Cumin (Feel free to skip if necessary.); 1 tsp Coriander (Highly recommended for flavor.); 1 tsp Garlic powder (Or substitute with garlic paste.); 5 cloves Minced garlic (Robust garlic flavor.); 1 tsp Onion powder (Shallots can be a fresh alternative.); 1 tsp Chili powder (Swap for cayenne for more heat.); 1 tsp Paprika (Smoked paprika adds depth.); 1 tsp Oregano (Fresh oregano can enhance flavor.); ¼ tsp Smoked paprika (Optional for smoky flavor.); a handful Fresh cilantro (Roughly chopped.); 1 lime Juice (Can replace with lemon juice.); to taste Fresh cilantro (Garnish.); to taste Green onions (Garnish.)

The warm scent of grilled meat fills the air, instantly transporting me to the vibrant streets of Mexico, where sizzling short ribs are a culinary delight. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Juicy Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs with Carne Asada Marinade, a dish that combines rich flavors with a quick grilling process, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Not only are these ribs incredibly tender and juicy, but they also boast that unmistakable charred taste that makes you feel like a grilling maestro. Pair them with cilantro lime rice and a zesty Mexican wedge salad, and you have a complete meal that will impress family and friends alike. Ready to elevate your grilling game? Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe together!

Why will you crave these ribs?

Bold flavors: The carne asada marinade seeps deeply into the meat, creating a savory profile that’s hard to resist.
Quick grilling: Perfect for busy cooks, these ribs go from marinated to mouthwatering on the grill in mere minutes.
Juicy perfection: Expect tender meat with a satisfying char, elevating every bite to a gourmet experience.
Endless pairings: Serve alongside delicious accompaniments like cilantro lime rice and spicy pinto beans, or get creative with a fresh Mexican wedge salad.
Crowd-pleaser: Great for gatherings, these ribs are guaranteed to impress family and friends at your next barbecue!

Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs Ingredients

For the Marinade
Flanken-style short ribs – The main protein that is packed with flavor; beef short ribs can be used if flanken is not available.
Soy sauce (½ cup) – Adds umami depth to the marinade; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
Vegetable or olive oil (½ cup) – Keeps the meat moist and aids in flavor absorption; any neutral oil works well.
White vinegar (⅓ cup) – Balances flavors and helps tenderize the meat; apple cider vinegar can also be an option.
White pepper (1-2 tsp) – Introduces a mild heat; you can opt for black pepper instead.
Cumin (1 tsp) – Offers a warm, earthy flavor that enhances authenticity; feel free to skip if you’re in a pinch.
Coriander (1 tsp) – Complements cumin perfectly; omit if necessary, but it’s highly recommended.
Garlic powder (1 tsp) & minced garlic (5 cloves) – Infuse the dish with robust garlic flavor; garlic paste works too if you’re short on time.
Onion powder (1 tsp) – Elevates overall flavors; shallots can serve as a fresh alternative.
Chili powder (1 tsp) – Adds a mild spice and color; swap it out for cayenne if you like it hot.
Paprika (1 tsp) – Brings sweetness and a vibrant color; smoked paprika can add even more depth.
Oregano (1 tsp) – Infuses an herby taste; fresh oregano can brighten up the flavor profile.
Smoked paprika (¼ tsp, optional) – Provides a delightful smoky flavor; feel free to leave it out if you prefer.
Fresh cilantro (a handful, roughly chopped) – Brightens the dish; parsley works as a mild substitute.
Juice from 1 lime – Adds a refreshing acidity; lemon juice is a suitable replacement.
For Serving
Fresh cilantro and green onions – These garnishes bring extra flavor and make your ribs look irresistible.

Make your meal unforgettable with these Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs—they’re sure to satisfy your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl or ziplock bag, combine ½ cup soy sauce, ½ cup vegetable oil, and ⅓ cup white vinegar. Add in 1-2 teaspoons white pepper, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon coriander, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 5 minced garlic cloves. Stir in 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika if desired. Finally, fold in a handful of chopped cilantro and the juice from 1 lime, creating a vibrant marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Ribs
Add the 2–3 pounds of flanken short ribs to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight for 24 hours of flavor absorption. The marinated short ribs will darken and take on an appetizing aroma, so make sure to get them into the fridge early for the best results.

Step 3: Prepare for Grilling
When you’re ready to grill the Mexican flanken short ribs, remove them from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows them to cook more evenly. Meanwhile, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly coat the surface with cooking spray to prevent sticking. You want the grill hot and ready for those flavorful ribs!

Step 4: Grill the Ribs
Place the marinated short ribs directly on the hot grill. Cook them for 3-4 minutes without moving them, allowing for a beautiful sear to form. After browning, flip the ribs and continue grilling for an additional 2-3 minutes. Check for doneness by looking for charred edges and a mouthwatering caramelization—juicy and tender inside while crispy outside is the goal with these grilled Mexican flanken short ribs.

Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the ribs are grilled to perfection, transfer them to a serving plate and cover them loosely with foil. Let them rest for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and enhancing the tenderness of the meat. As an optional step, you can boil any remaining marinade in a saucepan with ¼ cup of water for 3-5 minutes, strain, and drizzle it over the ribs for extra flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Before serving, sprinkle the grilled Mexican flanken short ribs with freshly chopped cilantro and finely sliced green onions. Pair them with your favorite sides like cilantro lime rice or spicy pinto beans, and squeeze some lime wedges over the top for that zesty finish. These delicious, juicy ribs are sure to be a hit!

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs

Fridge: Store leftover grilled Mexican flanken short ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the meat fresh while retaining its delicious flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a tightly sealed freezer bag. They’ll maintain their quality for up to 3 months. Just make sure to remove as much air as possible.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the ribs in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the grill or in a skillet until warmed through, ensuring they regain that delicious charred taste.
Serving Tip: If you have extra marinade, feel free to boil it down and use it as a sauce when serving the reheated ribs for an extra burst of flavor.

What to Serve with Juicy Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs

The perfect accompaniment can turn a delicious dish into a memorable meal, elevating the dining experience with vibrant flavors and enticing textures.

Cilantro Lime Rice: A light and zesty side that pairs wonderfully with the savory ribs, enhancing the meal’s brightness.
Spicy Pinto Beans: Creamy and hearty, these beans add a delightful warmth that balances the charred flavors of the meat.
Fresh Mexican Wedge Salad: Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tangy dressing create a refreshing contrast to the rich ribs, making each bite a joy.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and slightly smoky, this side is a summertime favorite that complements the robust flavors of the grilled meat.
Creamy Guacamole: Rich and creamy, this avocado dip adds a smooth texture and luscious taste that harmonizes with the robust short ribs.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide a fun and interactive aspect to the meal while effectively soaking up the delicious juices from the ribs.
Margaritas: A classic pairing for Mexican cuisine, these refreshing cocktails bring a delightful twist of flavor that enhances the overall experience.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note; these crispy, sugary treats are irresistible with a side of warm, decadent chocolate.

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy bold flavors with minimal effort on busy weeknights! You can prepare the marinade and cover the flanken short ribs up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they soak in all the delicious flavors. Simply combine the marinade ingredients, coat the ribs well, and refrigerate them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. When ready to cook, take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes beforehand to bring them to room temperature. This not only saves time but also ensures the ribs remain juicy and flavorful when grilled. Remember to let the ribs rest after grilling to enhance their tenderness—just as mouthwatering as if you made them fresh!

Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own; the flavors will delight your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Replace any marinades containing dairy with your favorite oil-based dressing or a vibrant citrus marinade.
Spicy Kick: Add diced fresh jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for an enjoyable heat boost.
Herb-Infused: Swap in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to change up the flavor profile; they’ll add freshness!
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked salt into your marinade for an extra depth; it’s sure to wow your guests.
Grilled Vegetables: Toss some bell peppers, zucchini, and onions on the grill along with the ribs for a delicious side; they’ll soak up those smoky flavors.
Tropical Twist: Try adding pineapple juice to the marinade; it leaves the meat sweet and beautifully caramelized. The acidity works wonders in tenderizing!
Soy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a non-soy alternative that maintains delicious flavor.
Sweet & Sour: Mix in honey or brown sugar to add a hint of sweetness that complements the savory marinade beautifully; balance is key!

For another delicious grilling option, check out my recipe for a unique Blueberry Grilled Cheese, or try your hand at a refreshing twist with Mexican Eggs Benedict.

Expert Tips for Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs

Hot Grill: Ensure the grill is hot before adding the ribs to achieve that perfect sear; this prevents sticking and enhances flavor.
Longer Marinade: For intense flavor, marinate the ribs for a full 24 hours. This allows the carne asada marinade to fully penetrate the meat.
Watch Cooking Time: Cooking times vary depending on rib thickness. Keep a close eye to avoid overcooking, as it can dry out the ribs.
Rest for Juiciness: Always let the grilled Mexican flanken short ribs rest before serving; resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite.
Flavorful Marinade Sauce: Don’t forget the optional step of boiling the leftover marinade; it serves as a delicious sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.

Grilled Mexican Flanken Short Ribs Recipe FAQs

What type of short ribs should I use?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using flanken-style short ribs. However, you can substitute with beef short ribs if needed. The key is to choose meat that has good marbling for added tenderness.

How do I know when the ribs are properly marinated?
After marinating for at least 6 hours, ideally 24 hours, the flanken short ribs should take on a rich color from the marinade and have absorbed the aromatic flavors. They will darken slightly and smell deliciously fragrant, indicating that they’re ready for grilling.

What’s the best way to store leftover grilled ribs?
Store any leftover grilled Mexican flanken short ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh while retaining their delicious flavors, ensure you seal them well. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Can I freeze the grilled short ribs?
Absolutely! To freeze the grilled Mexican flanken short ribs, place them in a tightly sealed freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I do if the ribs turn out tough?
If your grilled ribs end up being tough, it’s likely due to overcooking or not marinating long enough. Always watch the cooking time closely, as rib thickness can vary. For future endeavors, marinate them longer—up to 24 hours can really enhance tenderness. When reheating, consider wrapping them in foil and placing them in a warm oven to retain moisture.

Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Yes, this carne asada marinade is versatile! You can use it on skirt steak, flank steak, or even chicken thighs. Just keep in mind that cooking times will vary based on the type of meat and thickness!