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THE BEST BIRRIA TACOS

Sana Umer
These Birria Tacos are tender, flavorful, and irresistibly juicy. Slow-cooked beef in rich spices, served in crispy tortillas with melted cheese and a side of consommé, make them the ultimate comfort street-style tacos.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 tacos
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Birria:

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast cut into chunks
  • 3 dried guajillo chilies stemmed and seeded
  • 2 dried ancho chilies stemmed and seeded
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos:

  • 12 corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
  • Chopped onions and fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lime wedges
  • Oil for frying

Instructions
 

Prepare the Birria:

  • Soak dried chilies in hot water for 15 minutes, then blend with onion, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • In a slow cooker or pot, combine beef, chili sauce, and beef broth. Simmer for 2.5–3 hours until beef is tender and shreddable.

Assemble Tacos:

  • Heat tortillas in a skillet with a little oil. Add shredded beef and cheese, folding into a taco. Fry until crispy and cheese melts.

Serve:

  • Serve tacos with a small bowl of birria consommé for dipping. Garnish with chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Prepare birria in advance and reheat when ready to assemble tacos.
  • Customizing the Flavor: Add chipotle peppers for smokier heat. Use a mix of beef and lamb for richness.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with pickled onions, avocado slices, or a side of Mexican rice.
  • Storage Tips: Store leftover birria in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently in its broth.
Keyword beef tacos, birria tacos, cheesy tacos, consommé tacos, Mexican street food, slow-cooked beef, taco recipe