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Birria Tacos

Irresistible Birria Tacos: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight

These Birria Tacos are bursting with juicy beef and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Braising Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 6 tacos
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Chili Paste
  • 6 pieces Dried Guajillo Peppers Adds depth and heat; substitute with ancho chiles if unavailable.
  • 3 pieces Dried Ancho Chiles Imparts mild sweetness; substitute with guajillo or chipotle.
  • 2 pieces Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Introduces smokiness; reduce amount for a milder taste.
  • 1 large Onion, chopped Use yellow or white onion for best results.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Cloves Enhances overall flavor; can sub with garlic powder.
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes Provides acidity and moisture; can replace with tomato paste.
  • 4 cups Organic Beef Stock Adds richness; substitute with vegetable broth for vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Balances flavors; can replace with lime juice.
  • 2 pieces Bay Leaves Adds herbal flavor; can omit if not available.
  • 2 tablespoons Mexican Oregano Essential for authentic taste; regular oregano can substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds earthiness; can be omitted.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Enhances flavor complexity.
  • ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Enhances flavor complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Enhances flavor complexity.
  • ½ teaspoon Ground Allspice Enhances flavor complexity.
For the Meat and Tacos
  • 3 lbs Organic Chuck Roast Beef Main protein; can also use shank, lamb, or shredded chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Used for searing; can substitute with neutral cooking oil.
  • to taste Sea Salt & Black Pepper Basic seasonings; adjust to taste.
  • 12 pieces Corn Tortillas Essential for structure; consider flour for different texture.
  • 2 cups Shredded Oaxaca Cheese Melts beautifully; substitute with melty or vegan cheese.
  • 1 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro Ideal for garnish; can substitute with green onions.
  • 1 cup Pico de Gallo Fresh topping option; can use other salsas.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Blender

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Prepare Chili Paste: Remove stems and seeds from the dried chiles. Boil with beef stock for about 10 minutes until softened, then blend with garlic, onion, crushed tomatoes, and spices until smooth.
  2. Sear Beef: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear beef chunks until golden brown, then transfer to a plate.
  3. Cook Onions and Combine: In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in chili paste and simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Add remaining beef stock, water, and seared beef.
  4. Braise Meat: Cover with lid and place in the oven. Braise for about 2 ½ hours until meat is tender and easily shredded.
  5. Shred Beef: Remove from oven and shred beef into bite-sized pieces, coating lightly with the sauce.
  6. Assemble Tacos: Dip tortillas in consomé, fry in a skillet until warm and slightly crisp. Fill with shredded beef, sautéed onions, and Oaxaca cheese, folding to melt cheese.
  7. Serve: Serve tacos hot with a bowl of consomé for dipping, garnished with pico de gallo and chopped cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Double corn tortillas for sturdiness. Lightly toast/fry tortillas to avoid sogginess. Store leftovers separately in airtight containers and reheat in the oven.

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