There’s a moment when you first bite into a birria taco that feels like pure joy—a delightful crunch, melted cheese oozing, and tender beef all coming together in perfect harmony. The rich, savory flavor of this Mexican classic, traditionally made with goat but elevated here with succulent beef, transports you to a cozy gathering, where every bite feels like a celebration.
After a long day or when you want to impress friends at a gathering, these authentic beef birria tacos, paired with a flavorful consomé for dipping, are just the remedy. As the captivating aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll be tempted to dive in immediately. With their vibrant spices and tender meat that falls apart with a fork, these tacos not only satisfy cravings but also turn an ordinary meal into a memorable experience. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure and create a dish that will make your taste buds sing!
Why Are Birria Tacos So Irresistible?
Bold flavors: The rich combination of spices and tender meat infuses every tortilla with a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
Perfectly cheesy: Melted Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese adds an indulgent layer that elevates each bite to pure bliss.
Time-tested tradition: This recipe embodies Mexican culinary heritage, making it a great choice for celebrations or cozy dinners.
Versatile enjoyment: Serve with a flavorful consomé for dipping to amplify taste and make it a crowd-favorite.
Easy preparation: Despite their restaurant-quality appeal, these tacos require simple steps, allowing you to impress your guests without a fuss.
Birria Tacos Ingredients
• For those ready to dive into authentic flavors!
For the Stew
- Dried Guajillo Chiles – Adds mild heat and rich flavor; consider additional morita or pasilla chiles for more spice depth.
- Dried Morita Chiles – Contributes a smoky taste and deeper color; chipotle chiles can be a great alternative.
- Dried Pasilla Chiles – Offers earthy richness; more guajillo chiles can replace these nicely.
- Beef Brisket or Chuck Roast (2 lb) – The primary protein that ensures tenderness and flavor; oxtails or short ribs are excellent substitutes.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning the beef; sea salt works equally well.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; white pepper can be used for a milder touch.
- Vegetable Oil (2 Tbsp) – Provides a non-stick surface for searing beef; olive oil is a fantastic substitute.
- Roma Tomatoes (3, halved) – Adds acidity and sweetness; canned tomatoes can help in a pinch.
- Garlic (6 cloves) – Imparts aroma and depth; opt for pre-minced garlic for quicker prep.
- Whole Cloves (10) – Introduces a warm spice flavor; allspice may work in a similar vein.
- Cinnamon Stick (1, 3-inch) – Brings a sweet and warm aroma to the dish; ground cinnamon can substitute, but use less.
- White Wine Vinegar (1/4 cup) – Adds tanginess that balances the broth; apple cider vinegar is a perfect alternative.
- Cumin Seeds (1 1/2 tsp) – Infuses nuts and earthy flavors; ground cumin can work if that’s what you have.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Offers Mediterranean herbal notes; fresh oregano is a wonderful option if you’re able to use it.
- Large Yellow Onion (1, quartered) – Sweetens and enhances the broth; you can use shallots as a substitute.
- Bay Leaves (5) – Infuses the dish with delightful aromatic flavor; dried thyme can be an alternative.
For the Tacos
- 6-inch Corn Tortillas – These form the essential base for your tacos; flour tortillas can be used if desired.
- Shredded Oaxaca or Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully in the tacos; any melting cheese can replace it if unavailable.
For Garnishing
- Chopped White Onion – Adds freshness; green onions can also be used as a fun alternative.
- Chopped Fresh Cilantro – Enhances flavors and adds a pop of color.
- Lime Wedges – Serve these for a delicious burst of brightness; lemon wedges will work too.
How to Make Birria Tacos
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Toast Chiles: In a dry pot, toast the dried guajillo, morita, and pasilla chiles over medium heat until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning! Then, transfer them to a heatproof bowl.
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Rehydrate Chiles: Pour boiling water over your toasted chiles, letting them soak for about 20 minutes. This will soften them and release their delicious flavors.
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Sear Beef: Season the beef brisket or chuck roast with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. In the same pot, add vegetable oil and sear the meat on all sides until browned—around 5-7 minutes. This locks in the flavors!
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Blend Chile Mixture: In a blender, combine the soaked chiles (with their liquid), halved Roma tomatoes, garlic, white wine vinegar, and spices. Blend until smooth, creating a vibrant puree to enhance your stew.
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Braise: Return the seared beef to the pot, pouring the chile puree over it. Add enough water to cover the beef and toss in the quartered onion, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook in a preheated 350°F oven for 4-4.5 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
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Shred Beef: Once cooked, remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. The meat should fall apart easily—don’t be shy here, it’s the star of the show!
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Make Tacos: Dip each corn tortilla into the flavorful consomé and fry them in a skillet until crispy with melted cheese. Fill with the shredded beef, chopped onions, and cilantro, then fold. Serve with the warm consomé for dipping—it’s the ultimate indulgence!
Optional: Serve with pickled onions for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Birria Tacos
- Chili Toasting: Be cautious while toasting the dried chiles; too long can lead to bitterness instead of enhancing the flavor.
- Browning Beef: Ensure the beef is well-browned when searing; this step builds a foundation of savory depth in your birria tacos.
- Simmering Time: Allow enough time for braising; the longer it simmers, the more tender and infused with flavor your meat will be.
- Consomé Consistency: Strive for a silky, well-seasoned consomé. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary for the best dipping experience with your birria tacos.
- Tortilla Prep: Dip each tortilla in the hot consomé before frying to add moisture and richness; it also enhances the overall flavor of each taco.
How to Store and Freeze Birria Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover birria tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the meat and consomé separate to maintain texture.
Freezer: For best results, freeze shredded beef and consomé in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Dip the tortillas in the consomé and re-fry for a crunchy exterior before filling with the warmed beef.
Meal Prep: Consider making the birria ahead of time for easy meals during the week. You can enjoy these delicious tacos any night!
Make Ahead Options
These Birria Tacos are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal planning! You can prepare the beef stew up to 3 days in advance; simply cook the beef as directed, allow it to cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain that irresistible flavor, refrigerate the consomé separately. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the beef and consomé on the stove. Assemble the tacos just before serving: dip the tortillas in the consomé, fry with cheese, and fill with the flavorful beef, onions, and cilantro. This make-ahead approach ensures you’ll savor all the rich, mouthwatering flavors without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Birria Tacos?
There’s nothing quite like a fiesta that pairs perfectly with your birria tacos, enhancing their rich flavors while adding delightful textures to your meal.
- Spanish Rice: A hearty mix of rice and spices balances the savory flavors, making each bite of taco even more satisfying.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and flavorful, these provide a creamy backdrop that beautifully complements the tacos’ crispy exterior.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob sprinkled with cheese and chili powder offers a delightful pop of sweetness and heat alongside your birria.
Pair these dishes together to create a festive atmosphere, bursting with vibrant tastes and textures.
- Pickled Onions: Their tangy crunch cuts through the richness of the tacos, adding a refreshing bite that enhances every mouthful.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip with spices not only adds a splash of color but also provides a cool contrast to the spicy richness of the dish.
- Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips with zesty salsa serve as the perfect appetizer, inviting guests to dive into the feast ahead.
- Horchata: This sweet cinnamon rice drink refreshes your palate between bites, creating a delightful flavor combo with spiced tacos.
- Churros: End your meal on a sweet note with these crispy treats, dusted with cinnamon sugar for a comforting finish.
Embrace the joy of these pairings, and let each bite transport you to a festive gathering!
Birria Tacos Variations
Feel free to get creative with these flavorful taco ideas that will brighten up your mealtime!
- Goat Meat: Substitute beef with tender, slow-cooked goat for a more traditional birria experience, rich in flavor.
- Spicy Additions: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the meat mixture for a delightful kick that suits spice lovers.
- Salsa Twist: Experiment with a variety of salsas, such as pineapple or mango salsa, for a vibrant, sweet twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap beef for hearty jackfruit or lentils seasoned with smoky spices for a plant-based delight.
- Cheese Variations: Use queso fresco or pepper jack cheese instead of Oaxaca for an exciting cheesy surprise.
- Corn Tortilla Substitute: Try flour tortillas for a softer texture, perfect for those who prefer a different bite experience.
- Added Crunch: Top tacos with crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips for a delightful contrast in texture.
- Herb Enhancements: Garnish with fresh basil or mint in place of cilantro for an unexpected herbal flair.
Birria Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of chiles should I use for birria tacos?
Absolutely! For authentic birria tacos, the combination of dried guajillo, morita, and pasilla chiles works wonders. The guajillo chiles provide a mild heat, while morita chiles add a smoky flavor. If you’re in a pinch, chipotle chiles can be a great substitute for the morita.
How long can I store leftover birria tacos?
Very good question! You can store leftover birria tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the best texture, it’s ideal to store the shredded beef and consomé separately.
Can I freeze birria tacos?
Of course! To freeze, place the shredded beef and consomé in airtight containers, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat birria tacos?
I often recommend reheating in a skillet for the best result! Warm the beef and consomé separately, then dip and fry fresh tortillas in the consomé to maintain that wonderful crunch. This method ensures you get that delicious texture back!
Are birria tacos safe for my pets to eat?
Generally speaking, birria tacos are not suitable for pets due to the seasoning and spices, especially onions and garlic, both of which can be harmful to dogs. Always keep a close eye on what your furry friends are snacking on!
What if my consomé is too thick or salty?
Great question! If your consomé ends up too thick, simply stir in a little water or low-sodium broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it tastes too salty, balance it out by adding a splash of vinegar or a few sugar cubes to mellow the flavors. Taste test as you go to perfect it!
Savory Birria Tacos with Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toast Chiles: In a dry pot, toast the dried guajillo, morita, and pasilla chiles over medium heat until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning! Then, transfer them to a heatproof bowl.
- Rehydrate Chiles: Pour boiling water over your toasted chiles, letting them soak for about 20 minutes. This will soften them and release their delicious flavors.
- Sear Beef: Season the beef brisket or chuck roast with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. In the same pot, add vegetable oil and sear the meat on all sides until browned—around 5-7 minutes. This locks in the flavors!
- Blend Chile Mixture: In a blender, combine the soaked chiles (with their liquid), halved Roma tomatoes, garlic, white wine vinegar, and spices. Blend until smooth, creating a vibrant puree to enhance your stew.
- Braise: Return the seared beef to the pot, pouring the chile puree over it. Add enough water to cover the beef and toss in the quartered onion, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook in a preheated 350°F oven for 4-4.5 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
- Shred Beef: Once cooked, remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. The meat should fall apart easily—don't be shy here, it's the star of the show!
- Make Tacos: Dip each corn tortilla into the flavorful consomé and fry them in a skillet until crispy with melted cheese. Fill with the shredded beef, chopped onions, and cilantro, then fold. Serve with the warm consomé for dipping—it's the ultimate indulgence!