Birria Tacos

Switch up taco night with these beef birria tacos (quesabirria). Their crispy tortilla, melty cheese, slow-cooked birria, and flavorful consommé dipping sauce will have you going back for seconds, and likely thirds. Watch the video below to see how I make them in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavors: The combination of spices and chilies creates a rich, savory taste that is truly unforgettable.
• Versatile serving options: Perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners; everyone can customize their own taco.
• Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making birria tacos at home is a breeze.
• Comfort food appeal: Slow-cooked beef and cheesy tortillas make this dish feel cozy and satisfying.
• Dipping goodness: The accompanying consommé adds an extra layer of flavor that’s perfect for dipping.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Slow cooker or Dutch oven
• Blender
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker or Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking the beef until it’s tender and infused with flavor.
• Blender: This tool helps create a smooth sauce from the chiles and other ingredients, enhancing the overall taste of your birria tacos.

Ingredients

For the Birria

• 4 pounds beef chuck roast (cut into 3-inch chunks)
• 10 guajillo chiles
• 5 ancho chilies
• 3 arbol chilies
• 2 Roma tomatoes
• 1 white onion (quartered)
• 6 garlic cloves (unpeeled)
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 bay leaves

For Assembling Tacos

• Corn tortillas (or cassava flour tortillas)
• Diced white onion
• Roughly chopped cilantro
• Oaxacan cheese

How to Make Birria Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Chiles

1. Remove stems and seeds from the guajillo, ancho, and arbol chilies.
2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chiles for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
3. Transfer toasted chiles to a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for about 15 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Blend the Sauce

1. In a blender, combine the soaked chiles, Roma tomatoes, quartered onion, unpeeled garlic cloves, apple cider vinegar, and spices including salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, cloves, cinnamon, ginger, and bay leaves.
2. Add about one cup of the soaking liquid from the chiles to help blend everything smoothly.
3. Blend until you have a smooth sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. Place the beef chunks in your slow cooker or Dutch oven.
2. Pour the blended sauce over the meat and add beef broth.
3. If using a slow cooker, set it on low for about 8 hours or high for 4 hours. For a Dutch oven, cover it tightly and cook on low heat for about 4–5 hours until meat is tender.

Step 4: Assemble Tacos

1. When ready to serve, heat corn tortillas on a skillet until warm.
2. Add some shredded Oaxacan cheese to one half of each tortilla.
3. Top with shredded birria meat and garnish with diced onion and cilantro.
4. Fold the tortilla over to create your taco.

Step 5: Serve with Consommé

1. Ladle some of the reserved consommé into small bowls for dipping alongside your tacos.

Enjoy your delicious homemade birria tacos!

How to Serve Birria Tacos

Serving birria tacos is all about enhancing their rich flavors and textures. These delicious tacos are best enjoyed with a variety of sides and garnishes that complement their savory goodness.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Diced White Onion: Adds a crunchy texture and sharp flavor that balances the richness.
• Chopped Cilantro: Brings a fresh herbaceous note that elevates the overall taste.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice enhances the flavors and adds brightness.

Pair with Dipping Sauce

• Flavorful Consommé: Serve the tacos with a side of consommé for dipping, enhancing each bite with its deep flavor.

Enjoy with Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa adds a zesty contrast to the tacos.
• Green Salsa: A tangy green salsa made from tomatillos can provide an extra kick.

Serve with Rice or Beans

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes for a hearty addition to the meal.
• Black Beans: Creamy black beans offer protein and richness, perfect alongside the tacos.

How to Perfect Birria Tacos

Perfecting birria tacos requires attention to detail and techniques that enhance their flavor. Here are some key tips to ensure your tacos are unforgettable.

• Bold Seasoning: Use generous amounts of spices in your marinade to create a rich flavor profile.
• Slow Cook for Tenderness: Cooking beef slowly breaks down tough fibers, making your meat tender and juicy.
• Crisp Tortillas: Frying tortillas just before serving gives them a crispy texture that holds up well against fillings.
• Layer Cheese Generously: Adding Oaxacan cheese while assembling enhances melty goodness in every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Birria Tacos

Pairing side dishes with birria tacos can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder for a sweet-spicy treat.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of birria.
3. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with your favorite salsa make for an excellent starter.
4. Refried Beans: Smooth and creamy, refried beans add heartiness to the meal.
5. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw dressed lightly in lime juice offers a refreshing contrast to the tacos.
6. Queso Fresco Salad: A light salad topped with crumbled queso fresco adds creaminess without overpowering the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Birria Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring the soaking time: Not soaking chiles enough can lead to a less flavorful sauce. Always soak them until they’re soft for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the meat: Cooking beef too long can result in dry tacos. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked just right.
• Using low-quality tortillas: Low-quality tortillas can break and ruin the dish. Choose fresh corn tortillas or cassava flour tortillas for better texture.
• Skipping the cheese: Not adding cheese is a missed opportunity for flavor and creaminess. Melty Oaxacan cheese is essential for authentic quesabirria.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient’s flavor can vary significantly. Always taste your birria and adjust salt and spices as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Birria Tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Birria Tacos

• Place cooled tacos in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Birria Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, usually about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add tacos and warm for about 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Birria Tacos.

What are Birria Tacos?

Birria Tacos are delicious, slow-cooked beef tacos served with melted cheese and often accompanied by a flavorful dipping sauce called consommé.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken for beef if you prefer a lighter option, but cooking times may vary.

How do I make the dipping sauce?

The dipping sauce is made from the broth used to cook the birria, after straining out solids. It’s rich and perfect for dipping!

Are Birria Tacos spicy?

The spice level depends on the type of chiles used. Guajillo and ancho chiles provide flavor without overwhelming heat.

Can I customize my toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings, like avocado, radishes, or pickled onions, to personalize your Birria Tacos.

Final Thoughts

Birria Tacos offer an inviting blend of flavors that make them perfect for any mealtime. Their crispy exterior combined with melty cheese makes each bite delightful. Plus, they can easily be customized with different toppings or sides according to your taste preferences. Try making them today and see how they become a favorite at your table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Birria Tacos

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Switch up your taco night with flavorful Birria Tacos. These delicious beef-filled delights feature crispy tortillas, melty cheese, and tender slow-cooked beef, all served with a rich consommé for dipping. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, everyone will love customizing their own tacos. With bold spices and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a favorite at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 pounds beef chuck roast
• 10 guajillo chiles
• 5 ancho chiles
• 3 arbol chiles
• 2 Roma tomatoes
• 1 white onion
• 6 garlic cloves
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Corn or cassava flour tortillas
• Oaxacan cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chiles: Remove stems and seeds from the chiles. Toast them in a skillet for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, then soak in hot water for 15 minutes.
2. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine soaked chiles, tomatoes, onion, garlic, vinegar, and spices along with one cup of soaking liquid. Blend until smooth.
3. Cook the Beef: Place beef in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Pour sauce over meat and add broth. Cook on low for about 8 hours or high for 4 hours until tender.
4. Assemble Tacos: Heat tortillas on a skillet, add cheese to one half, top with shredded birria meat, garnish with onion and cilantro, and fold.
5. Serve: Ladle consommé into bowls for dipping alongside tacos.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg