Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of spices filled the air, transporting me to a bustling market in Jalisco, where the sounds of laughter mingled with sizzling pans. That’s when I knew I had to share my Fave Birria Tacos—a recipe that embraces the spirit of tradition while inviting your personal touch. Imagine tender, braised meat bobbing in a rich consomé, ready to warm your soul and satisfy those cravings longing for true flavor. This dish isn’t just about nourishment; it’s a customizable canvas for culinary creativity, whether you choose beef, chicken, or even jackfruit for a delightful vegan twist. With prep so quick and the potential for freezer-friendly servings, these tacos are perfect for weeknight dinners or gathering loved ones around the table. Curious to dive into the world of Birria Tacos and discover the secret to juicy, flavor-packed bites? Let’s get cooking! Why Are Birria Tacos So Special? Customization at its finest: This recipe accommodates different meats and even offers a tasty plant-based option with jackfruit, allowing you to tailor it to your preference or dietary needs. Flavor explosion awaits: Each bite bursts with rich, flavorful ingredients and perfectly blended spices that transport you straight to Mexico. Time-saving secrets: With minimal prep required and the ability to prepare components in advance, your weeknight dinners just got a delicious upgrade. Crowd-pleasing appeal: Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply feeding your family, these alluring tacos will have everyone asking for seconds. Enhance your meal even further with a side of Healthy Oven Tacos to round out the experience! Versatile toppings: From fresh Pico de Gallo to creamy avocado, the options are endless for personalizing your taco just the way you like it. This recipe is a love letter to traditional cuisine, marrying the simplicity of homemade tacos with vibrant flavors that are simply unforgettable. Birria Tacos Ingredients • Get ready to taste the magic! For the Chili Paste Dried Guajillo Peppers – Adds a rich, smoky flavor; substitute with dried pasilla for a milder taste. Dried Ancho Chiles – Contributes sweetness and depth; try New Mexico chiles for an alternative flavor profile. Chipotle Peppers in Adobo – Provides heat and tang; use fresh chipotle or another hot pepper if unavailable. Garlic Cloves – Adds aroma and depth; substitute with garlic powder, using half the amount. Crushed Tomatoes – Brings acidity and richness; swap for tomato sauce or fresh tomatoes if preferred. For the Meat Organic Chuck Roast Beef – The primary protein, tender and flavorful; substitute with lamb, chicken, or jackfruit for a vegan option. Extra Virgin Olive Oil – For searing the meat; any high smoke point oil will do. For the Seasoning Sea Salt – To enhance all the flavors; adjust to taste. Black Pepper – Adds warmth; sprinkle to your preference. Garlic Powder – Another layer of flavor; adjust according to taste. Bay Leaves, Mexican Oregano, Dried Thyme, Cumin, Ground Cinnamon, Smoked Paprika, Ground Allspice – These spices create a complex flavor profile; adjust according to preference or omit for simplicity. For Assembly Organic Corn Tortillas – The base for your tacos, gluten-free; flour tortillas are an option too. Shredded Oaxaca Cheese – For creaminess and flavor; use a melting cheese or dairy-free cheese for a vegan version. Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the dish; substitute with parsley if you’re in a pinch. For Toppings Pico de Gallo – A fresh topping that enhances flavor; can be swapped for sliced avocado or jalapeños. Dive into this sumptuous recipe and savor the essence of Birria Tacos that will not only feed your hunger but also your soul! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Birria Tacos Step 1: Make Chili Paste Start by boiling water, then pour it over the dried guajillo and ancho peppers in a bowl to soak for about 20 minutes until softened. After softening, blend the soaked peppers with crushed tomatoes, garlic cloves, and chipotle peppers in adobo until smooth, creating a vibrant chili paste for your delicious Birria Tacos. Step 2: Prepare Meat Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large Dutch oven, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the organic chuck roast beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, then sear the beef chunks in hot oil for about 5 minutes per side until beautifully browned. Remove the beef and sauté chopped onions in the same pot until translucent. Step 3: Braise Combine the chili paste you made earlier with organic beef stock and return the seared beef to the pot. Add in bay leaves and other spices, stirring to mix well. Cover the pot and braise in the preheated oven for approximately 2.5 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and incredibly flavorful, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas. Step 4: Shred Meat Once the beef is perfectly braised, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use two forks to shred the meat, ensuring you mix in some of the succulent sauce for added flavor. This shredded beef will be the star of your Birria Tacos, ready to create mouthwatering combinations. Step 5: Assemble Tacos Heat a skillet over medium heat. Briefly dip each organic corn tortilla into the rich consomé for about 2 seconds, then place on the skillet. Fill the tortillas with the shredded meat and shredded Oaxaca cheese, folding them to cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden and crispy, offering the perfect contrast in texture. Step 6: Serve Plate your flavorful Birria Tacos with a side of the warm consomé and fresh toppings such as pico de gallo and chopped cilantro. Enjoy the delightful melding of flavors with each bite and discover why these tacos are a comforting favorite in Mexican cuisine. Birria Tacos Variations & Substitutions Feel free to experiment and customize these mouthwatering Birria Tacos to suit your cravings and dietary preferences! Chicken: Swap out the beef for tender chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter take while maintaining rich flavors. Lamb or Goat: For a traditional twist, substitute beef with lamb or goat for a more authentic taste experience. Each brings unique flavor notes that enhance the overall dish. Vegan Jackfruit: Try using jackfruit for a delightful plant-based version. It mimics the texture of shredded beef and absorbs all those delicious spices, offering an incredible taste. Spice Levels: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili paste for an extra kick of flavor. Cheese Alternatives: Replace Oaxaca cheese with a vegan cheese that melts well for a dairy-free indulgence. This way, everyone can enjoy creamy tacos! Corn Tortillas: For a gluten-free option, stick with organic corn tortillas or explore using lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist. Unique Toppings: Elevate your tacos with toppings like mango salsa or pickled red onions for an unexpected zing. You can never have too many delicious toppings! Consomé Variations: Use vegetable broth to create a lighter, vegetarian consomé, perfect for those who prefer a meat-free option. With so many exciting possibilities, making your Birria Tacos uniquely yours is a delightful journey! Don’t forget to complement your meal with a side of those scrumptious Healthy Oven Tacos for an unforgettable gathering. How to Store and Freeze Birria Tacos Fridge: Store leftover Birria Tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the filling and tortillas separate to maintain texture and freshness. Freezer: Freeze Braised meat and chili paste in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating for best results. Tortillas can also be frozen separately. Reheating: To reheat assembled tacos, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy the irresistible flavors of your Birria Tacos once more! Make-Ahead: Prepare the braised meat and chili paste ahead of time; they can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Expert Tips for Birria Tacos • Two Tortillas: Use two tortillas for sturdiness to prevent sogginess, especially if you’re working with thinner ones. • Lightly Toast: Before filling, lightly toast or fry tortillas to create a moisture barrier, ensuring they stay crisp longer. • Quick Dipping: Quickly dip tacos in the consomé; assemble them right after for that perfect crispy texture, avoiding soggy tacos. • Store Separately: Keep leftover ingredients stored separately to maintain freshness. Assembled tacos can be reheated in the oven for best results. • Spice Flexibility: Feel free to adjust the spices in your Birria Tacos to suit your palate—experiment until you find your perfect blend! What to Serve with My Fave Birria Tacos Transform your tacos into a feast with these delightful accompaniments that enhance every savory bite! Creamy Avocado Salad: This cool, creamy salad adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy warmth of the tacos, making every bite a dream. Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the braised meat, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Crisp Elote (Mexican Street Corn): The sweet, smoky flavors of this corn dish pair beautifully with Birria Tacos, creating an explosion of flavors on your plate. Pico de Gallo: A fresh homemade topping adds crunch and vibrant flavors that beautifully complement the savory tacos, enhancing the overall experience. Homemade Refried Beans: These creamy beans bring a rich texture to your meal, creating a comforting side dish that people will adore. Chilled Horchata: This sweet, cinnamony rice drink is the perfect non-alcoholic pairing, soothing the palate and complimenting the spices in the tacos. Peppery Cilantro Rice: This fragrant rice dish helps soak up the consomé, creating a wonderful meld of flavors while providing a delicious base for your tacos. Spicy Pickled Onions: Tangy and vibrant, these toppings add a sharp contrast, elevating each bite of savory taco goodness beautifully. Churros for Dessert: End the meal with these sweet, crispy treats for a satisfying contrast that keeps the festive spirit alive. Let these delightful sides enhance the experience of savoring your Birria Tacos! Make Ahead Options These Birria Tacos are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the chili paste and braised meat up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply store the chili paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and refrigerate the cooled, shredded meat separately (mixing it with some braising liquid to maintain moisture). When you’re ready to serve, reheat the meat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. For the freshest tacos, dip and fry the tortillas just before assembly, ensuring they stay crispy and delicious. With these make-ahead options, you’re just minutes away from enjoying mouthwatering Birria Tacos! Birria Tacos Recipe FAQs What type of meat is best for Birria Tacos? Absolutely! While traditional Birria is often made with goat, I love using organic chuck roast beef for its tenderness and rich flavor. If you’re looking for variety, feel free to switch it up with chicken, lamb, or even jackfruit for a delicious plant-based option. How should I store leftover Birria Tacos? You can store leftover Birria Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, I recommend keeping the filling and tortillas separate to maintain freshness. That way, you can quickly reheat them without losing that delightful crispy texture! What are the freezing instructions for Birria Tacos? For freezing, package the braised meat and chili paste in freezer-safe bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as instructed. How do I prevent my Birria Tacos from getting soggy? Great question! To keep your tacos crispy, use two tortillas for sturdiness, lightly toast them before filling, and quickly dip them in the consomé just before frying. Assembling them promptly helps maintain that excellent crunch! Can I customize the spice level in my Birria Tacos? Very! You can easily adjust the spice level according to your taste. If you like it milder, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers in adobo or skip the extra chili peppers altogether. Don’t hesitate to find the perfect balance for your family! Are Birria Tacos safe for my pet? While the ingredients in Birria Tacos are safe for humans, I wouldn’t recommend sharing them with pets. Spices, such as garlic and onion, can be harmful to dogs, so it’s best to keep these delectable tacos just for us humans! Birria Tacos That Will Steal Your Heart and Taste Buds Indulge in delicious Birria Tacos, a customizable treat perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 tacosCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chili Paste4 pieces Dried Guajillo Peppers Adds a rich, smoky flavor; substitute with dried pasilla for a milder taste.4 pieces Dried Ancho Chiles Contributes sweetness and depth; try New Mexico chiles for an alternative flavor profile.2 pieces Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Provides heat and tang; use fresh chipotle or another hot pepper if unavailable.4 cloves Garlic Cloves Adds aroma and depth; substitute with garlic powder, using half the amount.1 cup Crushed Tomatoes Brings acidity and richness; swap for tomato sauce or fresh tomatoes if preferred.For the Meat2 pounds Organic Chuck Roast Beef The primary protein, tender and flavorful; substitute with lamb, chicken, or jackfruit for a vegan option.2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil For searing the meat; any high smoke point oil will do.For the Seasoning1 tablespoon Sea Salt To enhance all the flavors; adjust to taste.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth; sprinkle to your preference.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Another layer of flavor; adjust according to taste.2 pieces Bay Leaves Adds depth to the flavor.1 tablespoon Mexican Oregano1 teaspoon Dried Thyme1 teaspoon Cumin1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika1/2 teaspoon Ground AllspiceFor Assembly10 pieces Organic Corn Tortillas The base for your tacos, gluten-free; flour tortillas are an option too.1 cup Shredded Oaxaca Cheese For creaminess and flavor; use a melting cheese or dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro Brightens the dish; substitute with parsley if you’re in a pinch.For Toppings1 cup Pico de Gallo A fresh topping that enhances flavor; can be swapped for sliced avocado or jalapeños. Equipment Dutch ovenBlenderSkilletMeasuring cupsMeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Birria TacosStart by boiling water, then pour it over the dried guajillo and ancho peppers in a bowl to soak for about 20 minutes until softened. After softening, blend the soaked peppers with crushed tomatoes, garlic cloves, and chipotle peppers in adobo until smooth, creating a vibrant chili paste for your delicious Birria Tacos.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large Dutch oven, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the organic chuck roast beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, then sear the beef chunks in hot oil for about 5 minutes per side until beautifully browned. Remove the beef and sauté chopped onions in the same pot until translucent.Combine the chili paste you made earlier with organic beef stock and return the seared beef to the pot. Add in bay leaves and other spices, stirring to mix well. Cover the pot and braise in the preheated oven for approximately 2.5 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and incredibly flavorful, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.Once the beef is perfectly braised, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use two forks to shred the meat, ensuring you mix in some of the succulent sauce for added flavor. This shredded beef will be the star of your Birria Tacos, ready to create mouthwatering combinations.Heat a skillet over medium heat. Briefly dip each organic corn tortilla into the rich consomé for about 2 seconds, then place on the skillet. Fill the tortillas with the shredded meat and shredded Oaxaca cheese, folding them to cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden and crispy, offering the perfect contrast in texture.Plate your flavorful Birria Tacos with a side of the warm consomé and fresh toppings such as pico de gallo and chopped cilantro. Enjoy the delightful melding of flavors with each bite and discover why these tacos are a comforting favorite in Mexican cuisine. Nutrition Serving: 1tacoCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesUse two tortillas for sturdiness to prevent sogginess, especially if you're working with thinner ones. Store leftover ingredients separately to maintain freshness. Assembled tacos can be reheated in the oven for best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
