The Best Birria Tacos You’ll Ever Taste!

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Introduction:

Elevate Your Tacos

Welcome to taco heaven! If you’re looking for an irresistible way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo or any other occasion, these juicy, cheesy Beef Birria Tacos are calling your name. Inspired by the traditional Mexican stew from Jalisco and reimagined into crispy, cheesy tacos—this viral favorite has become a staple in my kitchen.

I have done a ton of traveling and I’ve had the privilege of trying Birria in Mexico, Southern California, and Texas. Traditionally this dish is made with Goat or Lamb, but commonly in the US, it’s made with Beef. Birria rose to fame by going Viral on social media a lot over the last few years, but it’s been around in Mexican cuisine for hundreds of years.

Whether you’re throwing a party, planning a festive family dinner, or just treating yourself, this Birria Tacos recipe is packed with bold flavors, tender beef, and a savory consommé perfect for dipping.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will guide you through creating mouthwatering Birria Tacos that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Origins of Birria Tacos: A Culinary Journey from Jalisco to the World

Birria Tacos, a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine, have a rich history that traces back to the state of Jalisco in Western Mexico. Their origins are deeply rooted in traditional Mexican cooking and culture, and they have evolved over time to become a global phenomenon.

The Birth of Birria

1. Ancient Beginnings: Birria’s origins can be traced back to the early colonial period in Mexico, where indigenous culinary practices began to blend with Spanish influences. The term “birria” is derived from the Spanish word “birria,” meaning “a mess” or “a mixture,” which reflects the dish’s humble beginnings as a stew made from a mix of meats and spices.

2. Regional Roots in Jalisco: Birria is particularly associated with the state of Jalisco, where it became a celebrated dish. Traditionally, birria was made with goat meat, which was a popular choice in Jalisco due to its availability and flavor. The dish was prepared with a mix of dried chile peppers, spices, and herbs, creating a rich, spicy stew that was often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations.

The Traditional Birria Preparation

1. Ingredients and Cooking Methods: Traditional birria involves marinating meat (typically goat, but sometimes beef or lamb) in a mixture of dried chile peppers, garlic, spices, and vinegar. The meat is then slow-cooked in a pot or an earthenware vessel until it becomes tender and infused with the complex flavors of the marinade. The result is a flavorful stew with a deep, reddish-brown color and a rich, savory taste.

2. Serving Styles: Originally, birria was served as a stew with its own broth, often accompanied by tortillas, rice, and beans. The combination of the tender meat and flavorful broth made for a hearty and satisfying meal.

The Rise of Birria Tacos

1. The Taco Twist: In recent years, Birria has undergone a transformation, evolving into a popular taco filling. This evolution is particularly associated with the Birria de res (beef Birria) variant, which has become a favorite both in Mexico and internationally. The beef version of Birria is often used for tacos, where the flavorful meat is served in warm corn tortillas and topped with cheese, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

2. The Trend Goes Global: Birria tacos, often known as “quesabirria” when filled with melted cheese, gained widespread popularity due to their irresistible combination of tender, spiced meat and gooey cheese. Social media played a significant role in this trend, with food enthusiasts sharing their experiences and recipes, leading to a surge in popularity and the global spread of this delicious dish.

Cultural Significance

1. Celebration and Community: Birria has always been more than just food; it’s a symbol of celebration and community. In Jalisco, Birria is often served during festivals, weddings, and family gatherings, reflecting its role as a dish meant to bring people together.

2. Preserving Traditions: As Birria tacos continue to gain popularity worldwide, they also serve as a way to preserve and celebrate Mexican culinary traditions. Whether enjoyed in a traditional setting or as a modern twist, Birria tacos offer a taste of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.

In summary, Birria tacos have evolved from a traditional Mexican stew with humble beginnings to a globally recognized and adored taco filling. Their journey from Jalisco to the world showcases the dynamic nature of food and how it can transcend borders, bringing people together through shared flavors and culinary experiences.

Ingredients Needed

• 3 lb Chuck Roast (or boneless short ribs)
• 3 Arbol Chile Peppers
• 2 Ancho Chile Peppers
• 2 Guajillo Chile Peppers
• (OR substitute all dried chile peppers with 1 can chipotle chile peppers in adobo sauce)
• 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 Cinnamon Stick
• 1 White Onion, chopped
• 2 cups Beef Stock
• 2 tbsp Garlic Paste
• All-Purpose Seasoning
• Dried Marjoram
• Dried Thyme
• Ground Cumin
• Chipotle Chile Powder
• 2 Bay Leaves
• Corn Tortillas
• 8 oz Queso Melt or Oaxaca Shredded Cheese
• Fresh Cilantro, chopped
• Limes

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Birria Tacos

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by organizing and measuring all your ingredients to keep the process smooth.

Step 2: Toast and Soak Dried Chile Peppers (Skip if Using Chipotle in Adobo)

Remove stems and seeds from Arbol, Ancho, and Guajillo chile peppers.

Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, turning frequently so they don’t burn for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Once they’re fragrant, place them in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 20 minutes to soften and drain the chile peppers once done.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Cut the 3lb. Chuck Roast into large chunks and season generously with All-Purpose seasoning.

Sear in a hot pot or Dutch Oven with oil until all sides are browned to ensure you get a nice crust. This will ensure you have added texture, color, and flavor! Remove and set aside.

That’s what you want to see!

Step 4: Blend the Spice Paste

In a blender or food processor, combine softened chile peppers (or chipotle in adobo), tomato paste, brown sugar, garlic paste, and a splash of beef stock. This rich, aromatic paste will be the base of your birria’s flavor.

Blend until smooth and thick.

Step 5: Build the Birria Base

In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until softened. Add the spice paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Return the beef to the pot and add:

• Cinnamon stick
• Bay leaves
• Marjoram
• Thyme
• Cumin
• Chipotle chili powder
• Remaining beef stock

Bring to a boil, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 3 hours, or until the beef is tender and shreds easily.

Step 6: Shred the Beef

Remove the beef and shred using two forks. Discard any large fat pieces. Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir into the rich broth (consommé).

Step 7: Assemble the Birria Tacos

Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or hot griddle over medium heat until they are warm and pliable.

Dip tortillas in the surface fat of the birria broth, then place on the skillet.

Fill each tortilla with a generous amount of shredded beef, topped with Queso Melt or Oaxaca Shredded Cheese, letting the cheese melt slightly, and fold it like a quesadilla. Cook until the cheese melts and tortillas are slightly crispy.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Top with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with a side of consommé for dipping and extra lime wedges.

Enjoy these Beef Birria Tacos with a side of your favorite salsa or some crispy tortilla chips. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging in a special treat, these tacos are sure to be a hit.

American vs. Mexican Tacos

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Print & Download Birria Taco Recipe

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