What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Many reasons make these Birria Tacos a must-try. First, they’re packed with rich, savory flavors that feel like a warm hug. Second, the recipe is straightforward, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Finally, they’re incredibly versatile, making leftovers just as delicious as the first bite.
Recipe
Birria tacos are a flavorful Mexican dish featuring tender, slow-cooked meat and rich consommé, perfect for tacos. This recipe delivers authentic flavors that are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs goat or beef (chuck roast or short ribs)
- 6 dried guajillo chilies
- 4 dried ancho chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 6 garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn tortillas
- Chopped cilantro and diced onion for garnish
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
- Remove stems and seeds from dried chilies. Toast them in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Soak in hot water for 15 minutes.
- In a blender, combine soaked chilies, onion, garlic, vinegar, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and 1 cup of beef broth. Blend until smooth.
- Season the meat with salt and pepper. Sear it in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
- Pour the chili sauce over the meat. Add bay leaves and remaining beef broth. Cover and simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender.
- Shred the meat using two forks. Skim excess fat from the consommé.
- Heat tortillas on a skillet. Dip each tortilla in the consommé, fill with shredded meat, fold, and cook on both sides until crispy.
- Serve tacos with consommé on the side for dipping. Garnish with cilantro, onion, and lime wedges.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, use a mix of goat and beef.
- Adjust chili quantity to control spiciness.
Equipment:
Blender, large pot, skillet, tongs
Time:
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 4 hours
Cuisine:
Mexican
Serving:
6-8 servings
Nutrition
Birria tacos are a flavorful and satisfying dish, but it’s important to be mindful of their nutritional content. Below is the breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my birria tacos with simple sides like cilantro lime rice or charro beans, which balance the rich flavors perfectly. A cold horchata or a crisp Mexican lager cuts through the richness, making every bite even better. Trust me, the right sides and drinks can turn a great meal into something unforgettable.
Side Dishes
When you’re serving birria tacos, pairing them with the right sides can make the meal even more special. I love adding a fresh Mexican street corn salad—it’s tangy, creamy, and crunchy all at once. A simple cabbage slaw with lime and cilantro brightens up the rich flavors of the birria. Don’t forget warm refried beans, which are comforting and hearty. Rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices is another classic that soaks up the leftover birria broth. And of course, a bowl of guacamole with crispy tortilla chips is always a crowd-pleaser. These sides create a balanced, satisfying feast!
Drink Pairings
To really make your birria tacos shine, pairing them with the right drinks can take the meal to the next level. I love serving them with a cold, tangy agua fresca like hibiscus or tamarind—it cuts through the richness perfectly. A classic Mexican beer, like a light lager, also works wonders, balancing the spices with its crispness. If I’m in the mood for something warm, a steamy cup of consommé with extra lime is comforting. For non-alcoholic options, I stick to soda with lime or a fizzy limeade. Trust me, the right drink can turn a great meal into a feast.
