Tablitas, a mouthwatering Mexican dish, has been delighting taste buds for generations.

These beef short ribs, marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, herbs, and chiles, offer a succulent and satisfying meal rich in tradition.

Originating from Mexico and Central America, tablitas have made a mark in culinary circles, garnering popularity amongst both home cooks and restaurant-goers alike.

The cooking process, which involves simmering the short ribs over low heat, results in tender, juicy meat that is simply irresistible.

The marinade’s combination of ingredients imparts an unforgettable aroma and taste, with every bite transporting you to the vibrant heart of Mexican cuisine.

No matter your culinary proficiency, tablitas provide the perfect opportunity to explore the rich flavors of this region.

So, as you prepare to embark on this culinary journey, allow us to guide you through the process of creating your very own delicious tablitas recipe.

With our helpful tips and enticing suggestions, you’ll soon master this iconic dish and add it to your repertoire of comforting, flavorsome meals.

How to Make Tablitas

Ingredients List

To make delicious Tablitas, you will need:

• 2 pounds of beef short ribs (tablitas), preferably Angus beef
• 2 pounds of thin-cut beef chuck steaks or flanken ribs
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Lime zest from 4 limes
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-step process

Step 1

Whether using a charcoal or gas grill, preheat it to medium-high heat.

Make sure the grill grate is clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 2

Season both sides of the beef short ribs and thin-cut beef chuck steaks with salt and pepper.

You can also add a bit of lime zest for added flavor.

Step 3

Before grilling, brush the grill grate with olive oil.

This will help prevent the meat from sticking and will provide a nice, golden brown crust on the ribs.

Step 4

Place the seasoned beef ribs and chuck steaks on the preheated grill directly over the heat source.

Cook for about 4 minutes per side or until they reach a nice sear with a crosshatch of grill marks.

You can adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness.

Step 5

Once cooked, remove the meat from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.

This will ensure that the juices are well-distributed throughout the meat, resulting in juicier, more tender tablitas.

Step 6

After the meat has rested, slice it into bite-sized pieces and serve.

Enjoy your delicious and tender Tablitas with your favorite side dishes and sauces.

Side Dishes for Tablitas

Tablitas are delicious beef short ribs, and choosing the right side dishes enhances the overall dining experience.

Let’s explore some traditional and versatile side options to pair with your tablitas.

Mexican Rice

Mexican rice is a fantastic complement to tablitas.

It is a flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, offering a perfect balance between the richness of the meat and the lightness of the rice.

The rice soaks up the tablita’s juices and creates a mouthwatering combination.

Frijoles Charros

Frijoles charros, or cowboy beans, are another great side dish option.

They are made by slowly simmering pinto beans with bacon, onion, garlic, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and chili powder.

The beans add a hearty and satisfying element to your meal, nicely balancing the flavors of the tablitas.

Grilled Vegetables

Offering a lighter and healthier alternative, grilled vegetables make for a refreshing side dish.

You can grill a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn, seasoned with herbs and spices.

They provide a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors to the rich and savory tablitas.

Guacamole and Chips

Add some creaminess and crunch to your meal with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips.

Homemade guacamole, made from mashed avocados, lime juice, and your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, pairs well with the tender tablitas.

The tortilla chips act as a delightful palate cleanser in between bites of meat.

Ingredients Substitutes

White Pepper

If you don’t have black pepper, you can use white pepper, which has a slightly milder flavor.

Alternatively, a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground paprika can work as a substitute.

Adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.

Lemon Juice

In case you don’t have lime juice available, try using lemon juice as a substitute.

It will provide the acidity needed for the recipe.

You can also use equal parts white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if you want to maintain a tangy flavor.

Olive Oil

If you prefer a lighter alternative, go for light olive oil.

You can also use avocado oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil as substitutes.

Keep in mind that the flavors may vary slightly.

How to Store Tablitas

Storing tablitas properly is essential in preserving their taste and quality.

Here are some guidelines on how to store cooked and uncooked tablitas for future enjoyment.

Chilled Storage

After preparing your tablitas, it’s important to store them in the refrigerator if you don’t plan on consuming them immediately.

To store cooked tablitas:

1. Allow the tablitas to cool down to room temperature.
2. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
3. Store the wrapped tablitas in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Uncooked Tablitas

Freezing is a good option for long-term storage of uncooked tablitas.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Wrap each tablita individually with plastic wrap, ensuring that it is tightly sealed.
2. Place the wrapped tablitas in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
3. Label the container with the date and contents.
4. Freeze the tablitas for up to 6 months.

To thaw frozen tablitas, transfer them to the refrigerator and allow them to defrost overnight before cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are the most common mistakes to avoid when preparing Tablitas:

Selecting the Correct Cut of Meat

To avoid disappointment when grilling tablitas, pay close attention when selecting your meat at the meat department.

Choose beef short ribs with plenty of meat between the pieces of bone, as opposed to large chunks of bone with little meat.

This will ensure a more satisfying and tender result.

Monitoring Cook Time

While grilling your tablitas, be sure to monitor the cook time carefully.

Overcooking will result in tough and dry ribs.

Aim for a medium-low heat and adjust as needed, ensuring that each side is cooked evenly.

Preparation and Organization

Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of prep time when it comes to making your tablitas.

Taking the time to prepare properly ensures a successful and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests.

By keeping these common mistakes in mind, you’ll be better prepared to make delicious, flavorful tablitas.

Enjoy the process and savor the results!