Birria Tacos

Crispy, cheesy, and juicy tacos with a rich and flavorful birria stew for dipping. A viral sensation for a reason.

Photo of Birria Tacos
Prep time30 min
Cook time3 hours
Servings6
Difficulty
Hard
Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
  • 4 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
  • 2 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 tsp Mexican oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 12 corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
  • for garnish chopped cilantro and onion
Chef's tip

The key is the consommé. Skim the fat from the top to use for frying the tortillas for extra flavor and color.

Instructions
  1. 1

    Toast the dried chiles in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side until fragrant. Submerge them in hot water for 30 minutes to rehydrate.

  2. 2

    Sear the beef chunks in a large pot. Add the rehydrated chiles, onion, garlic, cinnamon, oregano, cumin, and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 2.5-3 hours until the beef is tender.

  3. 3

    Remove the beef and shred it. Strain the broth, reserving the liquid (consommé).

  4. 4

    Dip a tortilla in the consommé, place it on a hot griddle, top with shredded beef and cheese. Fold and cook until crispy on both sides.

  5. 5

    Serve the tacos immediately with a side of warm consommé for dipping, garnished with cilantro and onion.