Mouthwatering Birria Tacos: Tender, Flavor-Packed Delights

Experience the irresistible flavors of Birria Tacos, a customizable dish with slow-braised meat and melted cheese that will elevate your dinners.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 2 30

Resting Time 10

Total Time 3

Servings: 6 tacos

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chili Paste

5 pieces Dried Guajillo Peppers Adds deep, smoky flavor; substitute with other dried chilies if unavailable.
5 pieces Dried Ancho Chiles Provides sweetness and complexity; use other dried peppers for varied flavor.
2 pieces Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Imparts heat and richness; swap with cayenne if you prefer more straightforward heat.
4 cloves Garlic Cloves Enhance overall flavor; fresh is preferred, but garlic powder may work in a pinch.
1 cup Crushed Tomatoes Adds acidity and depth; canned diced tomatoes or tomato puree can substitute.
1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar Balances flavors; replace with white vinegar if necessary.

For the Meat and Base

3 lbs Chuck Roast Main protein, tender and flavorful when slow-cooked; substitute with chicken or lamb if desired.
4 cups Beef Stock Provides a flavorful base; water can be used, but it’s less rich.
1 medium Onion Chopped; use shallots or green onions as alternatives.
2 pieces Bay Leaves Adds aromatic quality; dried thyme can be an alternative.
1 tablespoon Sea Salt Essential seasoning; adjust according to dietary needs.
1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential seasoning; adjust according to dietary needs.

For the Spices

1 tablespoon Mexican Oregano Deep herb profile; Italian oregano can serve in its place.
1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adjust to taste or replace with taco seasoning.
1 teaspoon Cumin Adjust to taste or replace with taco seasoning.
1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Adjust to taste or replace with taco seasoning.
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adjust to taste or replace with taco seasoning.
1/2 teaspoon Ground Allspice Adjust to taste or replace with taco seasoning.

For Assembly

12 pieces Corn Tortillas Base for tacos; opting for corn enhances traditional flavor.
2 cups Oaxaca Cheese Melts beautifully for tacos; substitute with mozzarella or dairy-free cheese.
1 cup Fresh Cilantro Brightens flavors; use parsley as an alternative.
1 cup Pico de Gallo Optional topping for freshness; easily homemade or store-bought.

Equipment

Dutch oven
blender
Skillet

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Chili Paste: Soak the dried guajillo and ancho chiles in 2 cups of beef stock for about 15 minutes until softened, blend with remaining ingredients.
Prepare the Meat: Preheat oven to 350°F. Sear the seasoned chuck roast in a Dutch oven until browned on all sides, then set aside.
Simmer the Mix: Sauté onion in the same pot, add chili paste, return seared beef, and simmer with remaining stock.
Braise: Cover and braise in the oven for about 2 ½ hours until tender.
Shred the Beef: Shred the meat with forks in the pot, allowing it to absorb the sauce.
Dipping Sauce: Reserve 1 cup of the broth and mix in fresh cilantro for dipping.
Assemble the Tacos: Dip tortillas in broth, pan-fry until crisp, fill with beef and cheese.
Serve: Plate tacos alongside dipping sauce and garnish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

These Birria Tacos are a delightful treat, perfectly customizable to cater to your family's tastes. Use two tortillas for added sturdiness when frying.

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