My Fave Birria Tacos

Name: My Fave Birria Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 lbs chuck roast, cut into pieces; 2 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed; 2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 tablespoon oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups beef broth; Corn tortillas; Chopped onions; Fresh cilantro; Lime wedges; Consommé for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the rich, complex flavors of authentic Birria Tacos with this delicious recipe. Slow-cooked beef is infused with traditional spices and served in warm tortillas, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Don’t forget to dip your tacos in the savory consommé for an extra burst of flavor!

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2025-11-23T11:38:55.616Z

This recipe for Birria Tacos combines slow-cooked beef with a blend of spices, delivering an unparalleled eating experience. The vibrant flavors are perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Authentic flavors that transport you to Mexico
Perfect for gatherings or casual dinners
Versatile: serve as tacos or with rice

      

The Art of Birria

Birria is a traditional Mexican dish known for its rich flavor and tender meat. Originating from the state of Jalisco, it was originally made with goat meat but has evolved to include beef and other variations. The preparation involves marinating the meat in a blend of spices and slow cooking it to achieve an irresistible depth of flavor. Each bite is a testament to the love poured into the cooking process, making Birria a beloved dish among families.

The key to authentic Birria is the unique combination of dried chiles, spices, and herbs that create its distinctive taste. The guajillo and ancho chiles used in this recipe add a smoky sweetness that is complemented by the warmth of cumin and oregano. When cooked slowly, the spices infuse the beef with aromatic flavors, resulting in a savory experience that will delight your palate.

Serving Suggestions

While Birria is delicious on its own, serving it in tacos elevates the experience even further. Warm corn tortillas are the perfect vessel for holding the succulent shredded beef, allowing you to enjoy every morsel. Garnishing with fresh onions and cilantro adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the dish. Don't forget to squeeze lime juice over the tacos for a zesty finish!

For an authentic dining experience, serve the tacos with a bowl of consommé on the side. This flavorful broth, made from the cooking liquid, enhances the overall enjoyment of the dish. You can dip each taco into the consommé for an extra layer of flavor, making every bite a delight. This combination is sure to impress your guests, making any meal feel like a special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Birria

3 lbs chuck roast, cut into pieces
2 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups beef broth

For Serving

Corn tortillas
Chopped onions
Fresh cilantro
Lime wedges
Consommé for dipping

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting the recipe.

Instructions

Prepare the Chiles

In a skillet over medium heat, toast the guajillo and ancho chiles until fragrant. Add to a blender with garlic, onion, vinegar, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, combine the beef pieces and the blended spice mixture. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours until the meat is tender.

Prepare the Tacos

Remove the beef from the pot and shred it. In hot tortillas, add the shredded beef and top with chopped onions and cilantro.

Serve

Serve the tacos warm with lime wedges and a bowl of consommé for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Birria Tacos!

Tips for Perfect Birria

To achieve the best texture in your Birria, it's essential to use a tough cut of beef like chuck roast, which becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked. Don't rush the cooking process; low and slow is the ultimate secret to perfect Birria. Additionally, feel free to adapt the spice levels to suit your taste. If you prefer more heat, consider adding some chipotle chiles for a kick.

When preparing the chiles, make sure to toast them properly until they release their aroma. This step enhances their flavor and gives your Birria a deeper richness. Also, let the spice blend cool a bit before blending to avoid creating steam in your blender, which can make it difficult to achieve a smooth consistency.

Storing Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, Birria stores well in the refrigerator. Place the shredded beef in an airtight container along with a bit of the consommé to keep it moist. It can last for up to three days in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove when you're ready to enjoy it again. You can also freeze the beef and broth for longer storage; just make sure to separate them into individual portions for convenience.

When reheating, you may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to revive the flavors and moisture. Often, the flavor of Birria improves as it sits, allowing the spices to meld even further. This makes it an excellent meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.