Birria Tacos
A delightful blend of savory flavors and tender textures, Birria Tacos feature slow-cooked beef in flavored broth, served with warm corn tortillas.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
- 3 lbs beef (such as chuck roast) Tender cuts of beef for slow cooking
- 6 cups beef broth Rich and savory for flavor
- 4 pieces dried guajillo chilies Adds fruity and slightly smoky flavor
- 2 pieces dried pasilla chilies Earthy and mild, complements other chilies
- 2 pieces dried ancho chilies Sweet and spicy for complex profile
- 1 large onion Aromatic, caramelizes beautifully
- 4 cloves garlic Adds savory punch
- 1 tbsp ground cumin Earthy depth to seasoning
- 1 tbsp dried oregano Fragrant herbal flavor
- 2 bay leaves bay leaves Enhances broth richness
- to taste salt Essential seasoning
- to taste black pepper Essential seasoning
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil For searing the meat
- 0.5 cup apple cider vinegar Brightens richness
For Serving
- 12 pieces corn tortillas Soft and pliable for tacos
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Soak the dried guajillo, pasilla, and ancho chilies in hot water for about 15-20 minutes until softened.
- Season the chuck roast generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Cooking
- Sear the chuck roast on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the roast and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add soaked chilies with some soaking liquid, apple cider vinegar, ground cumin, oregano, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Return the seared chuck roast to the pot and cover with a lid.
- Transfer to the preheated oven and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
Finishing
- Remove the pot from the oven and shred the meat using two forks.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, and warm corn tortillas on both sides until soft.
- Fill each tortilla with shredded beef and some cooking liquid. Optionally add fresh cilantro or chopped onion.
- Serve with additional cooking liquid for dipping.
Notes
Tips: Soak chilies, don't rush searing, and taste as you go to adjust seasoning.