Birria Tacos Recipe are a Mexican delicacy that has taken the culinary world by storm. Known for their deep, rich flavors and crispy tortillas filled with tender, slow-cooked meat, birria tacos have become a beloved dish in both street food stalls and high-end restaurants. This guide will take you through the steps to create birria tacos from scratch, giving you the authentic taste of this Jalisco-born dish in your own kitchen.
With their growing popularity, birria tacos have evolved beyond the traditional goat or beef stew, with new variations that add cheese, change the type of meat, or incorporate different cooking methods. We’ll explore all of these in detail, from preparing the meat to assembling the perfect taco. By the end, you’ll have all the tips and techniques you need to create these crispy, flavorful tacos at home.
What Are Birria Tacos Recipe?
Birria tacos are a delicious combination of tender, shredded meat from a birria stew and crispy tortillas, often served with a side of consommé, a rich broth that’s perfect for dipping. Originally from the Mexican state of Jalisco, birria is traditionally made with goat or lamb, but beef is more commonly used today, especially in the United States.
To make birria tacos, the tortillas are dipped in the birria broth and then fried to create a crispy shell. They are then filled with the juicy, shredded birria meat and served with toppings like onions, cilantro, and lime. For an added touch, some versions include melted cheese, which turns the tacos into quesabirria, a cheesier variation of the dish. If you’re curious to try a simpler version, Check out this easy ground beef recipes guide if you want to experiment with other taco fillings.
Birria Tacos vs Quesabirria Tacos
The main difference between birria tacos and quesabirria tacos is the addition of cheese. Quesabirria tacos include cheese that is melted between the tortilla and the birria filling, creating a gooey, rich layer that pairs perfectly with the crispy exterior of the taco. Whether you prefer your tacos with or without cheese, both versions offer the same bold, flavorful experience.
For those who love the combination of crispy tortillas and melty cheese, quesabirria tacos are a must-try. You can follow a step-by-step guide for making quesabirria tacos at home by visiting this birria tacos recipe guide.
Ingredients for Birria Tacos Recipe
To make the perfect birria tacos, it’s important to use the right combination of ingredients. Below, we’ll cover the essential items you’ll need, including the meat, spices, and toppings that give birria its authentic flavor.
Meat Options
Traditionally, birria is made with goat or lamb, but many modern recipes use beef, which is easier to find and more affordable. Here are the best cuts of meat to use for birria:
- Beef chuck roast: This cut is ideal for its marbling, which makes the meat tender and juicy after slow cooking.
- Beef short ribs: These add an extra layer of richness to the stew.
- Lamb shoulder: For a more traditional take, lamb offers a deep, gamey flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices in birria.
- Goat: The original meat used in birria, goat has a slightly stronger flavor and a tender texture when cooked properly.
Essential Spices and Ingredients
The complex flavors of birria come from the unique blend of dried chilis, spices, and aromatics that go into the stew. These ingredients are key to achieving the deep, smoky flavor birria is known for.
- Dried chilis: Guajillo, ancho, and chipotle chilis are the most common choices. They provide a rich, smoky heat that forms the base of the sauce.
- Garlic: Adds a depth of flavor that complements the spiciness of the chilis.
- Onions: Used both in the stew and as a topping for the tacos.
- Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes give the birria its slight sweetness and help balance the heat from the chilis.
- Mexican spices: Cumin, oregano, and bay leaves are essential for giving the birria its signature flavor.
- Vinegar: Helps to cut through the richness of the meat and balance the flavors.
- Corn tortillas: The traditional choice for making birria tacos, corn tortillas become crispy when fried in the birria broth.
- Cheese (optional): For making quesabirria tacos, choose a good melting cheese like Oaxaca or mozzarella.
How to Make Birria Tacos
Making birria tacos from scratch may take some time, but the result is well worth the effort. The process can be broken down into three main parts: preparing the birria stew, assembling the tacos, and serving with consommé for dipping.
Preparing the Birria Stew (Birria de Res)
The heart of birria tacos lies in the birria stew. This rich, slow-cooked dish infuses the meat with the deep, complex flavors of the chilis and spices. You can prepare the birria on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or using an Instant Pot for faster results.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast or short ribs
- 6 dried guajillo chilis, stems and seeds removed
- 3 dried ancho chilis, stems and seeds removed
- 2 dried chipotle chilis (optional, for more heat)
- 5 cloves garlic
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 2 large tomatoes, quartered
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the chili sauce: Toast the dried chilis in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Once toasted, soak them in hot water for 15 minutes to soften. Blend the soaked chilis with the garlic, onion, tomatoes, cumin, oregano, and vinegar until smooth.
- Marinate the meat: Season the beef with salt and pepper, then coat it with the chili sauce. Allow the meat to marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible, to let the flavors penetrate.
- Cook the birria: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat and brown the marinated meat on all sides. Add the beef broth and bay leaves, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and shreds easily.
- Shred the meat: Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it with two forks. Strain the broth (consommé) and set it aside for serving alongside the tacos.
For those who prefer quicker methods, you can also prepare the birria in an Instant Pot (about 50 minutes on high pressure) or a slow cooker (6-8 hours on low heat).
Assembling the Birria Tacos
After preparing the birria stew, the next step is to assemble the tacos. The key to perfect birria tacos is dipping the tortillas in the rich birria broth before frying them. This step adds flavor and helps create a crispy, golden exterior.
Instructions for Assembling the Tacos:
- Dip the tortillas: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Dip each tortilla in the birria broth (consommé) to lightly coat both sides.
- Fry the tortillas: Place the dipped tortilla in the skillet and fry for about 30 seconds until it starts to crisp. Add a portion of shredded birria to one side of the tortilla.
- Add cheese (optional): If you’re making quesabirria tacos, sprinkle cheese over the meat before folding the tortilla.
- Fold and fry: Fold the tortilla in half and press down lightly with a spatula. Continue frying until both sides are crispy and golden.
- Serve with consommé: Serve the tacos hot, with a small bowl of consommé on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro, onions, and lime wedges for a burst of freshness.
These tacos are best enjoyed fresh from the skillet, but leftovers can be reheated in the oven to maintain their crispiness. For a meal that pairs well with your tacos, check out this delicious chicken Alfredo recipe for a creamy, indulgent dish that contrasts beautifully with the richness of birria tacos.
Birria Tacos Variations
While beef birria is the most common type used for tacos today, there are several delicious variations that you can try to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
1. Chicken Birria
For a lighter version of the dish, chicken birria is an excellent option. You can follow the same steps as the beef birria recipe, but the cooking time will be shorter since chicken cooks faster. Chicken birria tacos are perfect for those who want to enjoy the rich flavors of birria without the heaviness of beef.
2. Lamb Birria
Lamb birria is closer to the traditional version of the dish, as lamb and goat were the original meats used in Jalisco. The rich, slightly gamey flavor of lamb pairs beautifully with the smoky, spicy birria broth. For the best results, use lamb shoulder or lamb shanks.
3. Vegetarian Birria
For a meat-free option, you can make vegetarian birria using jackfruit or mushrooms. Jackfruit has a texture similar to shredded meat, making it a great substitute, while mushrooms provide a rich, earthy flavor that works well with the chili sauce. Simply follow the same birria recipe, substituting jackfruit or mushrooms for the meat, and cook until tender.
Toppings and Sides for Birria Tacos Recipe
Toppings and sides play an important role in complementing the flavors of birria tacos and adding texture and freshness to the dish. Below are some popular toppings and sides to serve with your birria tacos.
Toppings:
- Chopped onions: Fresh onions add a sharp bite that contrasts with the rich flavors of the birria.
- Fresh cilantro: Cilantro adds brightness and freshness to the tacos.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime helps cut through the richness of the meat and consommé.
- Salsa: Serve your tacos with salsa verde, salsa roja, or smoky chipotle salsa for a spicy kick.
- Pickled jalapeños: For an extra layer of heat and tang, add some pickled jalapeños.
Sides:
- Mexican rice: A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich, flavorful tacos.
- Refried beans: Creamy refried beans add a smooth, comforting texture to the meal.
- Guacamole: Cool, creamy guacamole complements the spiciness of the birria.
- Elote (Mexican street corn): Try pairing your tacos with grilled street corn slathered in chili powder, mayo, and cotija cheese for a delicious side.
FAQs and Troubleshooting Common Issues
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What meat is traditionally used for birria tacos?
Birria is traditionally made with goat or lamb, though beef is the most common choice for birria tacos today.
2. Can I make birria tacos without cheese?
Yes, traditional birria tacos are made without cheese. Cheese is optional and is typically used for making quesabirria tacos.
3. How long does it take to cook birria?
On the stovetop, birria typically takes 3-4 hours to cook until the meat is tender. In a slow cooker, it takes 6-8 hours, while an Instant Pot reduces the cooking time to about 50 minutes.
4. What’s the difference between birria and barbacoa?
Birria is typically braised in a chili-based broth, while barbacoa is traditionally slow-cooked in an underground pit. Both are delicious, but birria is usually served with its broth (consommé), whereas barbacoa is often drier.
5. Can I make birria tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the birria ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the meat and consommé before assembling the tacos.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Why are my tacos soggy?
Soggy tacos can happen if the tortillas are over-dipped in the consommé. Dip them briefly and fry immediately for the best results. - How can I fix birria that’s too salty or spicy?
If your birria is too salty, you can dilute it with more broth or water. For birria that’s too spicy, add a splash of vinegar or more broth to balance the heat. - My birria meat isn’t tender. What can I do?
If your meat isn’t tender after cooking, it likely needs more time. Continue simmering until the meat shreds easily with a fork.
Conclusion
Birria Tacos Recipe are a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making traditional beef birria or trying your hand at quesabirria tacos, this guide gives you all the steps you need to create a delicious meal at home. Pair these tacos with your favorite toppings and sides, like guacamole or instant pot recipes, and you’ll have a feast to remember.
Now that you’ve mastered birria tacos, why not try a refreshing drink to go along with your meal? This espresso martini recipe is a delightful way to finish off your taco night!