Brazilian-Style Beef Ribs

Background and History

Brazilian-style beef ribs, known as “costela de boi” in Portuguese, are a beloved dish in Brazilian cuisine. This dish reflects Brazil’s rich culinary heritage, influenced by indigenous, European, and African culinary traditions. Traditionally, beef ribs are marinated and slow-cooked to tender perfection, resulting in a flavorful and succulent dish that is perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

  • 4 pounds beef ribs, preferably flanken cut
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)

Serves: 4-6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 4-8 hours
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, brown sugar, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.

Place the beef ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 4-8 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C).

Remove the beef ribs from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.

Place the ribs on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness and nicely charred on the outside, about 2-3 hours.

Once cooked, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

Serve the Brazilian-style beef ribs hot with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, beans, or grilled vegetables.

Nutrition Facts

(per serving)

  • Calories: 500
  • Fat: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 4g

Notes

Flanken cut beef ribs are cut across the bone into thin strips, which helps them cook faster and more evenly. You can ask your butcher to prepare them for you.

Marinating the ribs for several hours allows the flavors to develop and tenderize the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.

You can also cook Brazilian-style beef ribs in the oven or slow cooker if you prefer.

Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

Allergy Warning

This dish contains soy sauce. If you have a soy allergy, you can use a soy sauce alternative or omit it from the marinade.

Ignatius Thornfield
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Ignatius Thornfield, the discerning Recipe Connoisseur behind this site, is a culinary aficionado dedicated to transforming pet dining into an art form. With an exquisite taste for flavors and a keen eye for nutritious combinations, Ignatius shares a curated collection of gourmet pet recipes. His site is a sanctuary for pet owners seeking to indulge their furry friends with delectable and health-conscious meals. Ignatius's expertise in the realm of pet cuisine is evident in the sophisticated and thoughtfully crafted content he presents. For those who appreciate the finer culinary experiences for their pets, Ignatius Thornfield's site is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights.