Birria tacos have taken the culinary world by storm — and for good reason. These crispy, juicy tacos are filled with slow-braised beef and dipped in a rich, spiced consommé that turns every bite into a flavor explosion. Originating from Jalisco, Mexico, birria was traditionally served as a celebratory stew. But today, in taco form, it’s a street food sensation. Here’s how to make birria tacos at home that rival your favorite taqueria.
Why This Birria Tacos Recipe Works
The secret lies in slow cooking beef chuck in a blend of dried chilies, spices, and broth until it’s fall-apart tender. After shredding, the meat is tucked into corn tortillas, dipped in consommé, and griddled until crispy. What sets this recipe apart? A balance of deep umami, subtle heat, and irresistible texture — crispy outside, melt-in-your-mouth inside.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 2 dried guajillo chilies
- 2 dried ancho chilies
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- 4 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
- Chopped onions and cilantro (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare chilies: Remove stems/seeds from dried chilies. Soak in hot water 10 minutes.
- Make birria sauce: Blend chilies with onion, garlic, chipotle, spices, and 1 cup broth until smooth.
- Cook meat: In a large pot, combine beef, sauce, remaining broth, bay leaves, cinnamon. Simmer 3 hours or until tender.
- Shred beef: Remove meat, shred with forks. Reserve consommé for dipping.
- Assemble tacos: Dip tortillas in consommé. Fill with beef and cheese. Fold.
- Grill tacos: Cook in a skillet until crispy on both sides.
- Serve: Garnish with onions, cilantro, and serve with consommé and lime.
Tips and Serving Suggestions
- Serve with pickled red onions for brightness
- Add melted cheese for a “quesabirria” variation
- Freeze leftovers — birria meat stores perfectly
Conclusion
These birria tacos are more than a trend — they’re a celebration of slow-cooked flavor and Mexican tradition. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving comfort food, this recipe brings restaurant-level tacos straight to your kitchen.