Ultimate Birria Tacos have taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. This delicious dish combines tender, flavorful beef with fragrant spices wrapped in warm corn tortillas. People love these tacos for their rich flavors and customizable ingredients. They are perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. What makes this recipe truly special is the slow-braised beef that soaks up all the delicious spices, creating a memorable eating experience.
Why make this recipe
Making Ultimate Birria Tacos at home is rewarding and straightforward. This recipe is beginner-friendly and does not require advanced cooking skills. You can easily find all the ingredients at your local grocery store. Plus, homemade birria tacos often taste better than anything you can buy. They provide a wonderful way to bring friends and family together without breaking the bank. Enjoying a plate of these tacos will surely impress your guests.
How to make Ultimate Birria Tacos
This recipe is simple and stress-free. You will start by toasting the dried peppers and blending them with spices and vegetables to create a rich sauce. The beef slow-braises until it’s fall-apart tender. You need a few hours, but most of the time is hands-off cooking. The process is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy great food without the hassle.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 3 dried guajillo peppers
- 3 dried ancho peppers
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt to taste
- Fresh corn tortillas
- Oaxacan cheese (or mozzarella)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Directions
- Toast the dried peppers in a skillet over medium heat until fragrant, then soak them in hot water for 15 minutes.
- Blend the soaked peppers, onion, garlic, spices, and a bit of broth until smooth.
- In a large pot, brown the beef, then add the blended sauce and the remaining beef broth.
- Slow-braise the beef mixture on low heat for about 3 hours until tender.
- Remove the beef, shred it, and return it to the pot to soak up the flavors.
- Heat a skillet, dip the corn tortillas in the consomé, and add the beef and cheese.
- Fold the tortillas and fry until crispy.
- Serve tacos with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
How to serve Ultimate Birria Tacos
These tacos can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve them for lunch, dinner, or even as a flavorful snack. Pair them with fresh lime wedges for squeezing over the top and add chopped cilantro for extra freshness. You might also want to include a side of pickled onions or a simple salad to balance the rich flavors. Each bite is like a fiesta, and you can make them as casual or elegant as you’d like.
How to store Ultimate Birria Tacos
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the beef mixture for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, and then you can prepare a fresh batch of tacos.
Tips to make Ultimate Birria Tacos
- To enhance the texture of your tacos, consider frying them until they are crisp on the outside. This adds a delightful crunch.
- Don’t rush the slow-braiding process; the longer the beef cooks, the more tender it becomes.
- Avoid over-soaking the tortillas when dipping them in consomé; a quick dip is all you need to flavor them without making them soggy.
Ultimate Birria Tacos
- Total Time: 195 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Carnivore
Description
Delicious birria tacos made with slow-braised beef and fragrant spices wrapped in warm corn tortillas.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 3 dried guajillo peppers
- 3 dried ancho peppers
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt to taste
- Fresh corn tortillas
- Oaxacan cheese (or mozzarella)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Toast the dried peppers in a skillet over medium heat until fragrant, then soak them in hot water for 15 minutes.
- Blend the soaked peppers, onion, garlic, spices, and a bit of broth until smooth.
- In a large pot, brown the beef, then add the blended sauce and the remaining beef broth.
- Slow-braise the beef mixture on low heat for about 180 minutes until tender.
- Remove the beef, shred it, and return it to the pot to soak up the flavors.
- Heat a skillet, dip the corn tortillas in the consomé, and add the beef and cheese.
- Fold the tortillas and fry until crispy.
- Serve tacos with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
Notes
Fry the tortillas until crispy for added texture. Avoid over-soaking the tortillas when dipping them in consomé to keep them from becoming soggy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Braising
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Variation
Feel free to experiment with the flavors! You can add more spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for a kick. If you prefer a lighter option, try using chicken or pork instead of beef. For dietary considerations, substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative or skip it altogether for a fresh, authentic taste.
FAQs
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling for Ultimate Birria Tacos a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and reheat before using.
What can I substitute for dried guajillo and ancho peppers?
If you can’t find these peppers, try using other dried chili peppers like chipotle or pasilla for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent the tortillas from falling apart?
When making Ultimate Birria Tacos, dipping the tortillas in the consomé briefly helps them hold together without becoming too soggy. Fry them immediately after dipping for the best texture.
