birria tacos recipe

Birria tacos are one of the most popular Mexican dishes today, loved for their rich, savory meat and the satisfying crunch of fried tortillas. Originating in Jalisco, Mexico, birria was traditionally a slow-cooked goat stew served with tortillas. Today, it’s been transformed into birria tacos, where tender, spiced meat and melted cheese are layered inside tortillas, which are then pan-fried to a crisp. These tacos have become a viral sensation, especially with the popular trend of dipping them in consomé, the rich broth left from cooking the meat.

This guide will walk you through the birria tacos recipe step-by-step, covering everything from selecting ingredients to perfecting the frying technique. If you’re ready to master this dish and impress your friends or family, let’s get started!

What Are Birria Tacos?

Birria tacos are essentially tacos filled with shredded birria meat, cheese, and sometimes additional toppings like onions and cilantro. What makes birria tacos unique is the cooking process and how they’re served. The tortillas are typically dipped in the flavorful fat skimmed from the birria broth, then fried until crispy. The tacos are served alongside consomé, the aromatic broth left over from braising the meat, for an incredible dipping experience.

Birria was originally made with goat meat, but beef is now more commonly used, especially in regions where goat isn’t readily available. Cuts like chuck roast, short ribs, or oxtail are perfect for this recipe since they become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. For an exploration into hearty recipes with robust flavors, check out Clara’s Chicken Taco Soup Recipe.

Ingredients for Making Birria Tacos

The right ingredients are essential for making authentic birria tacos. Each element, from the spices to the meat, contributes to the rich flavor and signature style of this dish.

• Dried Chiles: Guajillo, ancho, and chile de arbol are the backbone of the birria sauce. These chiles provide depth, smokiness, and a bit of spice.
• Mexican Oregano: This is different from the standard oregano used in Italian cuisine. Mexican oregano has a robust, earthy flavor that complements the other spices.
• Cinnamon (Canela): Adds a hint of sweetness and complexity to the sauce without overpowering it.
• Meat: While goat is traditional, beef has become a popular choice for birria tacos. Chuck roast, short ribs, and oxtail are all great options for achieving a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Suggested Toppings

Typical toppings for birria tacos include melted cheese (Oaxacan cheese or mozzarella), fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. These toppings bring freshness and brightness to balance the rich flavors of the meat.

For a lighter yet flavorful alternative, check out Clara’s Easy Chicken Tacos Recipe, which provides another taco variation with easy-to-find ingredients.

Step-by-Step Birria Tacos Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the process of making birria tacos from scratch. Each step, from preparing the sauce to frying the tacos, brings you closer to perfecting this Mexican delicacy.

1. Prepare the Meat

1. Season the meat generously with salt on all sides. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the meat on all sides until brown. Remove the meat and set it aside for later.

2. Make the Birria Sauce

1. Soak the Chiles: In a medium saucepan, combine guajillo, ancho, and chile de arbol with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a cinnamon stick. Cover with water and bring to a simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until the chiles are soft.
2. Blend the Sauce: Transfer the softened chiles and other ingredients to a blender, adding a cup of beef broth. Blend until smooth, then strain the sauce to remove any solid bits, resulting in a smooth, rich sauce.

3. Braise the Meat

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Place the seared meat in the Dutch oven and pour the birria sauce over it. Add additional beef broth if needed to ensure the meat is mostly submerged.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stove, then cover and transfer to the oven. Braise for 3 to 4 hours, or until the meat is tender and easy to shred. You can also prepare this in an Instant Pot for quicker results. For another oven-friendly recipe, try Clara’s Steak in the Oven Recipe, which details similar braising techniques.

4. Prepare the Consomé

Once the meat is done, remove it from the pot and shred it with forks. Skim off some of the fat from the top of the broth and set it aside for frying the tortillas. Serve the remaining broth as consomé, garnished with cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime. This dipping sauce adds layers of flavor and enhances the overall experience.

Assembling and Frying the Birria Tacos

The final step is assembling and frying the tacos, which gives them their signature crispy texture and unforgettable taste.

1. Dip and Fry the Tortillas

Using the reserved fat from the birria broth, dip each tortilla lightly to coat it with flavor. This will make the tortillas crispy and golden when fried.

2. Assemble and Cook the Tacos

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place a dipped tortilla on the skillet and sprinkle a small handful of cheese on one side.
2. Add a spoonful of shredded birria meat on top of the cheese.
3. Fold the tortilla over to form a taco, pressing gently with a spatula to help the taco hold its shape. Fry until both sides are golden brown and the cheese has melted.

3. Serve with Consomé

Once your tacos are golden and crispy, serve them alongside a small bowl of consomé for dipping. Garnish with extra cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges to add freshness and acidity to each bite.

Tips for Perfect Birria Tacos

Here are some tips to help you create the best birria tacos possible:

• Choose the Right Cut of Meat: While beef is a common option, other meats like goat and lamb can also be used for a more traditional taste.
• Adjust the Spice Level: For a spicier taco, increase the amount of chile de arbol in the sauce. To tone down the spice, reduce the number of spicy chiles.
• Make Ahead for Enhanced Flavor: Birria often tastes better the next day. Preparing the birria a day in advance allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a richer, more developed taste.

Variations of Birria Tacos

Birria tacos are a versatile dish that can be adapted in many ways. Here are a few popular variations to consider:

Cheese Alternatives

If Oaxacan cheese isn’t available, feel free to use other types of melty cheese like Monterey Jack or Chihuahua. Each cheese has a unique flavor that can subtly change the taste profile of your tacos.

Alternative Meats

For a twist on the classic recipe, try birria with different meats like lamb, goat, or even chicken. Each meat brings a different texture and flavor, giving you a unique birria experience every time.

Dietary Adjustments

• Dairy-Free Option: You can omit the cheese altogether or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure that you use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to make this dish naturally gluten-free.

Suggested Sides and Pairings

Birria tacos are quite filling on their own, but pairing them with traditional Mexican sides can elevate the meal. Here are a few suggestions:

• Mexican Rice: A mild side that balances the flavors and adds texture.
• Refried Beans: A creamy, savory side that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of birria.
• Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Sweet and spicy corn on the cob complements the smoky, savory flavors of birria tacos.

Drink Pairings

To complete the meal, pair birria tacos with traditional Mexican beverages:

• Horchata: This rice-based drink adds a sweet, cooling contrast to the spicy tacos.
• Agua Fresca: Refreshing options like watermelon or cucumber-lime agua fresca are perfect for balancing out the richness of the birria.
• Mexican Beer: A cold lager pairs excellently with the bold flavors of birria tacos.

Frequently Asked Questions About Birria Tacos

• What is birria traditionally made of?
  Birria is typically made from goat or lamb, though beef has become a popular choice, especially in birria tacos.
• How spicy are birria tacos?
  The spice level can vary based on the chiles used. Adjusting the amount of chile de arbol can make it milder or spicier to suit your preference.
• Can I make birria tacos without cheese?
  Yes, birria tacos can be enjoyed without cheese for a lighter or dairy-free option.

Conclusion

Birria tacos are more than a food trend; they’re a delicious way to enjoy traditional Mexican flavors in a modern and fun way. From the smoky, spiced meat to the crispy, cheesy tortillas, birria tacos are sure to satisfy any craving for bold, savory flavors. By following this recipe, you’ll be able to recreate authentic birria tacos right in your own kitchen. Don’t forget the consomé for dipping—it’s what makes the birria taco experience complete!

For more taco inspiration, explore Clara’s Shredded Chicken Tacos Recipe for another tasty take on tacos. Enjoy every bite of these flavorful birria tacos, and happy cooking!