Savory Smoked Beef Rib Burrito Recipe

Looking to elevate your backyard barbecue game with a mouthwatering twist? Look no further than the irresistible smoked beef rib burrito. Picture this: tender beef ribs, lovingly smoked to perfection, paired with zesty salsa verde, all wrapped snugly in a warm tortilla. It’s a flavor explosion that captures the essence of family cookouts and Tex-Mex comfort food in one hearty package.

The magic begins with a slab of beef ribs, slowly smoked until it’s fall-off-the-bone tender, delivering a rich, smoky aroma that beckons everyone to the table. Imagine the satisfaction of pulling apart those buttery ribs and nestling them into a burrito alongside fluffy white rice, gooey Jack cheese, and a dollop of refried beans. Each bite is a celebration of flavor and tradition, a harmonious blend of barbecue pitmaster techniques and Tex-Mex flair.

Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or craving a satisfying meal on the go, these smoked beef rib burritos are sure to steal the show. With a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and tangy flavors, this burrito is a delicious nod to the rich culinary heritage of Texas food trucks and backyard barbecues. So fire up the grill, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor every bite of this backyard comfort wrapped in a tortilla – because once you try this recipe, you’ll be dreaming of those smoky beef bites and fresh salsa long after the last crumb is gone.

Quick Benefits

  • Rich, smoky flavor from slow-smoked beef ribs
  • Hearty and satisfying meal that leaves you full and happy
  • Fresh and vibrant salsa verde adds a punch of flavor
  • Large tortillas hold all fillings securely without tearing

Why You’ll Love This Savory Smoked Beef Rib Burrito Recipe Recipe

  • Irresistible Smoky Aroma: The bold, slow-smoked beef paired with punchy salsa verde creates a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone eager to take the first bite.
  • Hearty and Satisfying: This burrito is undeniably hearty and satisfying, making it the perfect meal to leave you feeling full and content long after you’ve finished.
  • Rewarding Eating Experience: Pulling the beef straight off the bone after hours of smoking feels like a well-earned reward, making each bite even more enjoyable.
  • Memorable Flavor: The buttery ribs combined with the fresh salsa verde create a flavor combination that will have your guests talking about this meal long after they’ve had it.
  • Versatile and Adaptable: You can customize this recipe by using brisket instead of beef ribs, different types of cheese, and beans to suit your preferences without compromising on flavor.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: The burritos can be stored and reheated easily, making them a convenient option for meal prep or enjoying the deliciousness again later.
  • Great for Gatherings: Whether it’s a game day get-together, backyard dinner, or tailgate lunch, these burritos will be a hit and can easily be transported for a meal on the go.
  • Fusion of Flavors: This recipe combines barbecue pitmaster techniques with Tex-Mex burrito building, offering a fusion of flavors that captures the essence of Texas food trucks.
  • Pure Backyard Comfort: Each bite of this burrito is a taste of pure backyard comfort, making it a meal that you’ll crave long after it’s gone.

Ingredients for Savory Smoked Beef Rib Burrito Recipe

Beef and Seasoning

  • Yellow mustard for binder
  • 1 slab beef ribs (3-4 bones, silver skin removed)
  • Barbecue beef seasoning

Burrito Components

  • White rice, cooked
  • 3 cups shredded Jack cheese
  • Refried beans, heated
  • 4 large flour tortillas (12-inch)
  • Salsa verde

Salsa Verde

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, roasted
  • 1/4 cup cilantro
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 Serrano pepper, roasted
  • 1/3 yellow onion, roasted
  • 4 tomatillos, halved and roasted

Preparation Supplies

  • Hickory wood chunks
  • Butcher paper
  • Apple cider vinegar for spritzing
  • 1 block unsalted butter

Pro Tips for Savory Smoked Beef Rib Burrito Recipe

For the best results, smoke the beef ribs low and slow until they reach probe-tender perfection. Resting them in a cooler after smoking will retain their juiciness and make them easy to shred, enhancing the texture of your burrito filling.

To elevate the flavors of your burrito, take the time to make a fresh salsa verde from roasted tomatillos and peppers. This homemade salsa will provide a vibrant and zesty contrast to the rich, smoky beef, adding depth and freshness to each bite.

When assembling your burritos, opt for large 12-inch flour tortillas to comfortably hold all the fillings and allow for secure rolling without tearing. After assembling, a quick toasting on a hot griddle, seam-side down, for about 60-90 seconds per side will help seal the burrito and enhance its overall texture. Remember, you can always customize the cheese to your preference, using Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend depending on your taste preferences.

How to Make Savory Smoked Beef Rib Burrito Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Beef Ribs

Trim any remaining silver skin from the ribs, then use mustard as a binder and coat the ribs with barbecue beef seasoning.

Step 2: Smoke Beef Ribs

Preheat smoker to 120°C with hickory wood chunks. Smoke beef ribs for 2 hours, spritz with apple cider vinegar every 45 minutes.

Step 3: Wrap and Continue Smoking

When ribs reach an internal temperature of 77°C after 4.5 hours, place butter on butcher paper, tightly wrap ribs, and smoke for an additional 2 hours until probe-tender.

Step 4: Rest the Ribs

Take the ribs out of the smoker and let them rest in a cooler, wrapped, for 1-2 hours.

Step 5: Prepare Salsa Verde

Grill tomatillos, Serrano pepper, onion, and garlic until charred. Allow to cool, then blend with cilantro, lime juice, and salt for 1-1.5 minutes until smooth. Set aside.

Step 6: Shred Beef

Remove the wrapping from the smoked beef ribs and shred them using your hands or a cleaver. Transfer the shredded meat to a bowl.

Step 7: Warm Tortillas

Preheat griddle or grill to 175°C. Warm tortillas on both sides for 45-60 seconds.

Step 8: Assemble Burritos

Spread refried beans, white rice, shredded beef, salsa verde, and Jack cheese on each tortilla. Roll up tightly with the seam side down.

Step 9: Toast and Serve Burritos

Toast each burrito on a griddle for 60-90 seconds per side until lightly golden. Serve hot.

Storage Tips

To store the smoked beef rib burritos, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, tightly wrap each burrito in foil and place them in the refrigerator. These burritos can be stored this way for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the burritos individually. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat the frozen burritos wrapped in foil in an oven preheated to 300°F until they are hot throughout. The salsa verde can be stored in a jar in the fridge; make sure to give it a stir before serving.

The smoked beef rib burritos are a delicious and hearty meal that can be enjoyed even as leftovers. By following these storage tips, you can ensure that the flavors are preserved and the burritos remain fresh for future meals. Whether reheating from the fridge or freezer, the burritos will still deliver that irresistible smoky aroma and satisfying taste that makes them a favorite among family and friends.

Ingredient Substitutions

If beef ribs are not available, you can substitute brisket as mentioned in the article. Brisket will provide a similar smoky flavor and tender texture to the burrito filling. If you prefer a different cheese flavor, Monterey Jack can be replaced with pepper Jack or any other cheese of your choice, such as cheddar or a Mexican blend. This allows you to customize the burrito to your taste preferences.

For a milder salsa verde, you can skip the Serrano pepper and use roasted bell pepper instead. This adjustment will reduce the spiciness of the salsa while still maintaining a flavorful and fresh component to the burrito. Additionally, if you prefer a smoother texture for the salsa verde, you can blend the ingredients together until smooth. Experimenting with different peppers or adjusting the seasoning levels can help tailor the salsa verde to your desired taste profile while still complementing the smoky beef rib filling in the burrito.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider setting up a DIY burrito bar at your next gathering. Lay out bowls of warm white rice, refried beans, shredded Jack cheese, and the homemade salsa verde alongside a platter of smoked beef rib meat. Let guests build their own burritos, customizing each one to their liking with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a drizzle of apple cider vinegar for an extra kick. This interactive and flavorful setup is sure to be a hit with friends and family, creating a fun and memorable dining experience.

Another fun idea is to turn these smoked beef rib burritos into a Tex-Mex brunch favorite by serving them alongside a side of sunny-side-up eggs. The runny yolks add a rich and creamy element that complements the smoky beef and tangy salsa verde perfectly. The combination of flavors and textures creates a mouthwatering dish that is both satisfying and comforting, making it a delightful option for a leisurely weekend breakfast or brunch with loved ones.

FAQs for Savory Smoked Beef Rib Burrito Recipe

Can I use brisket instead of beef ribs in this recipe?

Yes, brisket makes a worthy substitute for beef ribs in this recipe. The slow-smoked beef flavor will still be delicious in the burrito.

Why should I use Monterey Jack cheese in the burrito?

Monterey Jack cheese works well in this recipe as it melts nicely and complements the flavors. However, you can also use pepper Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican cheese blend based on your taste preferences.

How should I store the leftovers of the smoked beef rib burritos?

To store leftovers, cool the burritos completely, wrap them tightly in foil, and place them in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the burritos individually and reheat them wrapped in foil in the oven at 300°F until hot.

Why is it recommended to toast the burrito on a griddle after assembling?

After assembling the burrito, toasting it on a hot griddle seam-side down for 60–90 seconds per side helps seal the burrito and gives it a nice, crisp finish.

Conclusion

As you embark on creating your own batch of flavorful smoked beef rib burritos, remember that the heart of this dish lies in the slow-smoked beef and the vibrant salsa verde that brings everything together. The process of smoking the ribs low and slow requires patience, but the end result is truly worth the wait.

Whether you are planning a family cookout, a game day gathering, or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, these smoked beef rib burritos are sure to become a favorite. The combination of tender, smoky beef and zesty salsa verde wrapped in a warm tortilla is a delightful fusion of flavors that will surely leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the smoker, and get ready to savor every bite of these delicious smoked beef rib burritos. Enjoy the process, embrace the aromas, and relish in the flavors of this Tex-Mex delight. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more gatherings filled with good food and great company around these mouthwatering smoked beef rib burritos.

Savory Smoked Beef Rib Burrito Recipe

Savory Smoked Beef Rib Burrito Recipe

“Smoky beef rib burrito with hearty smoked beef, vibrant salsa verde, and melted Jack cheese, capturing the essence of backyard comfort in each delicious bite.”
Prep Time25 Minutes
Cook Time330 Minutes
Total Time355 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings4 Servings (4 large burritos)

Ingredients

Beef and Seasoning

  • Yellow mustard for binder
  • 1 slab beef ribs (3-4 bones, silver skin removed)
  • Barbecue beef seasoning

Burrito Components

  • White rice, cooked
  • 3 cups shredded Jack cheese
  • Refried beans, heated
  • 4 large flour tortillas (12-inch)
  • Salsa verde

Salsa Verde

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, roasted
  • 1/4 cup cilantro
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 Serrano pepper, roasted
  • 1/3 yellow onion, roasted
  • 4 tomatillos, halved and roasted

Preparation Supplies

  • Hickory wood chunks
  • Butcher paper
  • Apple cider vinegar for spritzing
  • 1 block unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare Beef Ribs: Trim any remaining silver skin from the ribs, then use mustard as a binder and coat the ribs with barbecue beef seasoning.
  2. Smoke Beef Ribs: Preheat smoker to 120°C with hickory wood chunks. Smoke beef ribs for 2 hours, spritz with apple cider vinegar every 45 minutes.
  3. Wrap and Continue Smoking: When ribs reach an internal temperature of 77°C after 4.5 hours, place butter on butcher paper, tightly wrap ribs, and smoke for an additional 2 hours until probe-tender.
  4. Rest the Ribs: Take the ribs out of the smoker and let them rest in a cooler, wrapped, for 1-2 hours.
  5. Prepare Salsa Verde: Grill tomatillos, Serrano pepper, onion, and garlic until charred. Allow to cool, then blend with cilantro, lime juice, and salt for 1-1.5 minutes until smooth. Set aside.
  6. Shred Beef: Remove the wrapping from the smoked beef ribs and shred them using your hands or a cleaver. Transfer the shredded meat to a bowl.
  7. Warm Tortillas: Preheat griddle or grill to 175°C. Warm tortillas on both sides for 45-60 seconds.
  8. Assemble Burritos: Spread refried beans, white rice, shredded beef, salsa verde, and Jack cheese on each tortilla. Roll up tightly with the seam side down.
  9. Toast and Serve Burritos: Toast each burrito on a griddle for 60-90 seconds per side until lightly golden. Serve hot.