Go Back

Birria Tacos Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or stock pot for simmering the beef in consommé
  • Cast-iron skillet or nonstick pan to fry the tortillas until crispy
  • Blender or food processor to puree the chili sauce
  • Tongs for flipping tacos and handling meat
  • Cutting board & sharp knife for prepping vegetables and trimming meat
  • Mixing bowls for soaking chilies and holding shredded beef
  • Measuring spoons & cups for spices and liquids
  • Serving bowls for consommé and toppings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast or short ribs for extra flavor
  • Dried chilies: 4 guajillo 2 ancho, 2 pasilla (stems and seeds removed)
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 onion quartered
  • 2 tomatoes roasted or boiled
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano Mexican oregano if available
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • Corn tortillas
  • Shredded cheese optional but delicious

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chili Sauce

  • Toast the dried chilies in a skillet until fragrant (do not burn).
  • Soak them in hot water for 15 minutes.
  • Blend chilies with tomatoes, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, salt, and 1 cup beef broth until smooth.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

  • In a large pot, sear the beef chunks on all sides.
  • Pour in the chili sauce, bay leaves, and remaining beef broth.
  • Cover and simmer for 2–2.5 hours, or until meat is fork-tender.

Step 3: Shred and Prepare for Tacos

  • Remove the meat and shred it using two forks.
  • Reserve the rich consommé (broth) for dipping.

Step 4: Fry the Tacos

  • Dip each corn tortilla in the consommé.
  • Place it on a hot skillet, add shredded meat and cheese, and fold into a taco.
  • Cook until golden and crispy on both sides.

Notes

Tip: If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a slow cooker or Instant Pot can work just as well—just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

shelfrecipes.com