Welcome to the scrumptious world of Beef Birria Tacos, where Mexican culinary traditions blend robust flavors and tender, juicy beef into an unforgettably delicious dining experience. With the perfect mix of spices, these tacos deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of tacos or a first-time taster, this recipe will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 3 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
- 3 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
- 3 cups beef broth
- 5 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn tortillas
- Diced onions, chopped cilantro, lime wedges for serving
Equipment
- Large pot
- Blender
- Slotted spoon
- Tongs
- Frying pan
How to Make Beef Birria Tacos – Step By Step
Step 1 – Prep the Chiles:
Start by boiling a pot of water and then removing it from the heat. Submerge the dried guajillo and ancho chiles in the hot water to soften for about 15 minutes. This process will allow the chiles to infuse their rich flavors into the broth later. Once softened, drain but reserve a little of the soaking water.
Step 2 – Blend the Marinade:
Transfer the softened chiles to a blender, adding a portion of the reserved soaking water, garlic, oregano, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend these ingredients until you form a smooth paste, which will serve as a punchy marinade for the beef.
Step 3 – Marinate the Beef:
Place the beef chunks in a large bowl, and pour over the chile paste. Massage the paste into the meat, ensuring each piece is coated. Allow the beef to marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 4 – Cook the Birria:
Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the marinated beef in batches to create a caramelized exterior, which adds depth to the final flavor. Once browned, return all the beef to the pot, add beef broth, bay leaves, and any remaining marinade. Simmer on low for about 2-3 hours, allowing the beef to become tender and shredded.
Step 5 – Assemble the Tacos:
Warm corn tortillas on a frying pan until soft. Remove the beef from the pot with a slotted spoon and shred it using forks. Place a generous amount of beef on each tortilla, finishing with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
How to Serve Beef Birria Tacos
Pair your Beef Birria Tacos with a side of spicy salsa and a refreshing beverage like a chilled agua fresca. These tacos are best enjoyed fresh, but they’re also perfect for entertaining, allowing guests to build their own tacos with various toppings.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the ultimate beef birria experience, make sure you allow the beef ample time to marinate. The longer it rests in the fridge, the deeper and more rounded the flavors become. Additionally, feel free to customize the toppings to fit your palate—cheese, avocado, or pickled jalapeños add an exciting twist!
Pumped-Up Protein: Beef Birria Tacos
Looking to add more protein to your diet? Our Beef Birria Tacos can be tailored to boost your protein intake! Consider doubling the beef proportion or adding toppings like diced soft-boiled eggs or a sprinkle of high-quality cheese.
Low-Carb Beef Birria Wraps: Tacos Without the Guilt
Maintaining a low-carb lifestyle? Swap out corn tortillas with lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas for a guilt-free treat. These alternatives provide a crisp texture to contrast with the tender beef, making them a perfect option for health-conscious diners.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover birria meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove adding some broth if it dries out. Freezing the meat works too—simply defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use lamb or goat as traditional alternatives.
- How can I make the tacos spicier?
Add additional chiles or serve with a spicy salsa on the side.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- What if I don’t have dried chiles?
Substitute with chile powder but adjust to taste.
- How do I serve the consomme?
The consomme can be served as a dipping sauce alongside the tacos.
Savor the Flavor: Final Thoughts on Beef Birria Tacos
There you have it! A delicious guide to making outstanding Beef Birria Tacos that cater to every taste bud. Now it’s your turn to bring Mexican flair to your kitchen! Share your experience and don’t forget to leave a comment or share with your taco-loving friends!
Beef Birria Tacos
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck roast
- dried guajillo chiles
- dried ancho chiles
- beef broth
- garlic
- bay leaves
- ground cumin
- dried oregano
- salt and pepper
- corn tortillas
- diced onions
- chopped cilantro
- lime wedges
Instructions
Steps
- Prep the chiles by boiling a pot of water and submerging the dried guajillo and ancho chiles in it to soften for about 15 minutes.
- Transfer softened chiles to a blender with a portion of the soaking water, garlic, oregano, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Marinate the beef by placing it in a large bowl and coating it with the chile paste. Leave in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
- Cook the birria by heating oil in a large pot, browning the marinated beef in batches, then simmering with beef broth and bay leaves for 2-3 hours.
- Assemble the tacos with warmed corn tortillas, shredded beef, and toppings like onions, cilantro, and lime.