Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup kosher salt
  • 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 3 teaspoons pink curing salt #1
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 pounds boneless short ribs
  • 1/4 cup black peppercorns
  • 1/4 cup coriander seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 dried bay leaf
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
  • 4 cups cider vinegar
  • 1/2 medium white onion, thinly sliced
  • 10 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup mustard seeds
  • 1/4 large head of green cabbage, shredded
  • 1/2 medium white onion, minced
  • 2 limes, each cut into 6 wedges
  • 12 tortillas, flour or corn

Method

  • In a 2-quart saucepan, combine 6 cups water with the 2/3 cup salt, brown sugar, curing salt, and honey.
  • Bring to a simmer, then immediately remove from the heat, transfer to a bowl, and set into an ice bath to chill.
  • Place the short ribs in a 4-quart container with a lid.
  • Pour the chilled brine over the meat and transfer to the refrigerator.
  • Brine for at least 3 days and up to 1 week.