Beef Birria Tacos

Name: Beef Birria Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed; 2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cups beef broth; Salt to taste; Corn tortillas; Chopped onions; Chopped cilantro; Lime wedges; Salsa (optional)

Highlighted under: Wanderlust Cooking Creations

Savor the rich and flavorful experience of Beef Birria Tacos, a delicious Mexican dish perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-01T21:01:44.534Z

Beef Birria Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish that combines tender, marinated beef with a rich and savory broth, all wrapped in warm tortillas. This recipe is perfect for gatherings and celebrations, bringing authentic flavors to your table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty beef flavor that warms the soul
Perfectly spiced broth that adds depth to every bite
Crispy tortillas that hold all the delicious fillings
Ideal for sharing with family and friends

      

The Story Behind Birria

Birria originated in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, and has become a beloved dish across the country and beyond. Traditionally made with goat meat, beef birria has gained popularity due to its rich flavors and satisfying texture. The dish is often served at special occasions and celebrations, making it a staple in Mexican cuisine. Each family has their own variations, adding personal touches that make birria unique to their heritage.

The cooking method typically involves slow-braising the meat with a blend of spices and dried chiles, creating a deeply flavorful broth. This method not only tenderizes the beef but also infuses it with aromatic spices, making every bite a burst of flavor. The versatility of birria shines through, as it can be enjoyed in various forms, from tacos to quesadillas, and even as a comforting soup.

Tips for Perfecting Your Birria

To elevate your beef birria tacos, consider marinating the meat overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish. You can also experiment with different dried chiles to customize the spice level and taste. For instance, adding chipotle chiles will introduce a smoky element that complements the beef beautifully.

Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime enhance the overall flavor profile of the tacos. For an extra kick, serve your birria with a side of salsa or hot sauce. These simple additions can transform your tacos from delicious to absolutely unforgettable.

Serving Suggestions

Beef birria tacos are perfect for gatherings and family meals. Consider serving them alongside traditional Mexican sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad to create a complete meal that appeals to everyone. The combination of rich flavors and textures will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

For a fun twist, set up a taco bar where everyone can customize their tacos with their preferred toppings. This interactive dining experience will make your gathering memorable and enjoyable. With the savory beef, crispy tortillas, and vibrant toppings, your beef birria tacos are sure to be the star of the show.

Ingredients

For the Beef Birria

2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups beef broth
Salt to taste

For Assembly

Corn tortillas
Chopped onions
Chopped cilantro
Lime wedges
Salsa (optional)

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Meat

In a large pot, combine the beef, onion, garlic, guajillo chiles, ancho chiles, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 2 hours or until the beef is tender.

Shred the Beef

Once the beef is tender, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir to combine with the broth. Season with salt to taste.

Prepare the Tacos

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Dip a corn tortilla in the broth and then place it on the skillet. Add a generous amount of the shredded beef mixture and fold the tortilla in half.

Cook until crispy and golden on both sides.

Serve

Serve the tacos hot, garnished with chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges. Enjoy with salsa if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Beef Birria Tacos with friends and family!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover beef birria, storing it properly is essential to maintain its flavor and texture. Allow the beef and broth to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. The birria can be refrigerated for up to three days, or you can freeze it for longer storage. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Be mindful that the tortillas can become soggy if stored with the beef. To keep them crispy, store the tortillas separately and heat them just before serving.

Variations to Explore

While this recipe focuses on beef, birria can also be made with other proteins such as lamb, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian twist. Each version brings its own unique flavor and character to the dish. For those who enjoy bold flavors, try adding a splash of vinegar or a few bay leaves to the broth for extra depth.

Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheeses when assembling your tacos. Melting cheese like Oaxaca or Monterey Jack adds a creamy, indulgent element that pairs beautifully with the spiced beef.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use brisket or short ribs for a different flavor and texture.

→ How can I make this recipe spicy?

Add more dried chiles or include fresh jalapeños in the broth for an extra kick.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The beef can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days.

→ What sides go well with Beef Birria Tacos?

Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad complement these tacos beautifully.