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Easy birria taco recipe

Easy Birria Taco Recipe

One of my families favorite meals! Birria tacos are so easy to make and way better than buying them!
5 from 1 vote
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Course Main Course
Servings 15 Tacos

Ingredients
  

  • 10 cups water
  • 4 bone-in short ribs
  • 3.5 lbs chuck roast cut into chunks
  • 1 1/2 heads of onion peeled and halved
  • 1 whole garlic bulb top sliced off
  • 1 large carrot peeled
  • 6 dried guajillo chilies stems and seeds removed
  • 5 Tbsp chicken bouillon
  • 1-2 Tbsp salt adjust to taste
  • 3 tsp dried oregano
  • 3 tsp chili powder
  • 7 bay leaves
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 tsp cumin for extra depth of flavor
  • 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar enhances tenderness
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor
  • 1 cup shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
  • 12-15 corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions for garnish, optional
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • fresh cilantro for serving
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying tortillas

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Birria Stew

  • In a large pot, add water, short ribs, chuck roast, onion, garlic, carrot, guajillo chilies, chicken bouillon, salt, oregano, chili powder, cumin, bay leaves, cilantro, smoked paprika, and apple cider vinegar.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 3.5 hours, until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
  • Remove the meat, discard the bones, and shred the beef.
  • Blend the softened chilies, garlic, onion, and a cup of the broth to create a smooth consomé (dipping sauce). Strain if needed and return to the pot.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning, adding salt if necessary.

Step 2: Assemble the Tacos

  • Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and add a little vegetable oil.
  • Dip each tortilla into the consomé and place it on the skillet.
  • Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on one side of the tortilla.
  • Add shredded birria beef on top of the cheese.
  • Sprinkle chopped cilantro and onions, if desired.
  • Fold the tortilla in half and cook until crispy, flipping once.
  • Repeat until all tacos are prepared.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve the tacos hot with a side of consomé for dipping.
  • Squeeze fresh lime juice on top for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Garnish with additional chopped onions and cilantro for added freshness.

Notes

Tips for the Best Birria Tacos

  • Use Quality Meat: A mix of short ribs and chuck roast ensures tender, flavorful results.
  • Toast the Chilies: Lightly toast guajillo chilies before simmering to deepen their flavor.
  • Customize the Heat: Add dried arbol chilies for extra spice.
  • Make It Ahead: Birria stew can be made a day in advance and reheated for even richer flavor.
  • Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas hold up better when dipped and fried.
  • Don’t Skip the Cheese: Oaxaca cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
  • Fry for Extra Crispiness: A little oil on the skillet ensures the tacos are crispy and golden brown.
  • Try a Slow Cooker: If you prefer a hands-off approach, cook the birria in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours.
Keyword birria, birria tacos, dinner, easy dinner, tacos
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