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 lbs beef chuck roast; 1 lb beef shank; 4 dried guajillo chilies; 2 dried ancho chilies; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cloves garlic; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; 4 cups beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 corn tortillas; Chopped onions; Chopped cilantro; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

Discover the deliciousness of Beef Birria Tacos, a flavorful Mexican dish that combines tender beef with an aromatic broth, perfect for dipping.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T21:45:44.761Z

Beef Birria Tacos are not just a meal, but an experience. Originating from the Jalisco region of Mexico, these tacos have gained popularity for their rich flavors and comforting essence. The slow-cooked beef, infused with traditional spices, makes for a mouthwatering filling that’s perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory beef flavor in every bite
Aromatic broth perfect for dipping
Great for gatherings and celebrations

      

The Origins of Birria

Birria is a traditional Mexican dish that hails from the state of Jalisco. Originally made with goat meat, modern variations often use beef, which has become popular due to its rich flavor and tenderness. The dish is known for its unique blend of spices and chilies that create a deep, satisfying taste.

This flavorful stew has roots that date back centuries, often served during special occasions and celebrations. The aromatic broth is not only delicious but also serves as a comforting dip for the tacos, making it a favorite for gatherings and family meals.

Choosing the Right Cuts of Meat

For the best Birria, selecting the right cuts of beef is crucial. Beef chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, which ensures tenderness and flavor when cooked slowly. Beef shank, with its rich connective tissue, adds depth to the broth, resulting in a truly sumptuous dish.

Both cuts benefit from long, slow cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When preparing the beef, consider trimming excess fat but leaving enough to enhance the dish's richness. This careful selection ensures your Beef Birria Tacos will be a hit at any meal.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Birria Tacos are not just a meal; they are an experience! Serve them with a side of dipping broth for an interactive dining experience. The warm, savory broth enhances each bite and is perfect for soaking the tortillas.

To elevate your taco night, consider adding a variety of toppings such as diced avocados, radishes, or a zesty salsa. These additions can introduce new textures and flavors, making your Beef Birria Tacos even more delightful.

Ingredients

For the Birria

2 lbs beef chuck roast
1 lb beef shank
4 dried guajillo chilies
2 dried ancho chilies
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
4 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos

12 corn tortillas
Chopped onions
Chopped cilantro
Lime wedges

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking for an easier and more enjoyable experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

Remove the stems and seeds from the dried chilies. In a blender, combine the guajillo and ancho chilies, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, adding a little beef broth if necessary.

Marinate the Beef

In a large bowl, combine the beef chuck roast and shank with the marinade. Ensure the beef is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, add the marinated beef and the remaining beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Shred the Beef

Remove the beef from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot to soak up the flavors of the broth.

Prepare the Tacos

Heat the corn tortillas on a skillet until warm. Fill each tortilla with shredded beef, and top with chopped onions and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges and a cup of the broth for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Beef Birria Tacos with family and friends!

Tips for Perfecting Your Birria

To achieve the best flavor, marinate the beef overnight. This allows the spices and chilies to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more robust taste. If you’re short on time, aim for at least two hours, but the longer, the better.

When cooking the beef, keep an eye on the pot and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the broth reduces too much, add a little water to maintain the right consistency. The goal is to have a flavorful broth that complements the tacos perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the shredded beef and broth separately in airtight containers. This will help maintain the texture of the beef and the flavor of the broth. Properly stored, they can last in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To reheat, gently warm the beef in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry. The broth can be reheated on the stove. Avoid boiling, as this can alter the texture. Enjoy your leftovers with fresh tortillas for a quick meal!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

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

→ Are these tacos spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on the type and amount of chilies used. Adjust to your preference.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The beef can be cooked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

→ What should I serve with Beef Birria Tacos?

They pair well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad.