Birria Tacos Recipe
+6 photos

Birria Tacos Recipe

4 servings
Step up your next taco night with our ultimate guide to the best homemade tacos ever.

Ingredients

  • beef shank
    1 ½ lb
  • sirloin
    1 lb
  • guajillo peppers

    see notes

    3
  • chipotle peppers in adobo
    1 can
  • vinegar
    ¼ c
  • tomatoes
    ½ c
  • garlic
    5 clove
  • oregano
    1 tsp
  • smoked paprika
    ½ tsp
  • cumin
    1 tsp
  • onion

    chopped

    1 medium
  • cinnamon stick
    1
  • bay leaves
    2
  • whole cloves
    6
  • chicken stock to cover

    sodium free, about 1 quart

  • 4" corn or flour tortillas (
  • onion
    1 medium
  • cilantro
    1 bunch
  • mexican cheese blend
    1 c

Directions

  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of water to a boil and then remove from heat. Soak your dried guajillo peppers for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, cube your cab sirloin, then season both the steak and the shank with salt and pepper. Set aside.

    Step 1
  2. 2

    Add marinade ingredients to the blender. When the peppers are done soaking, hold them by the tip over the sink and use scissors to cut the stem off and allow the seeds to fall out, then add to blender. Blend the marinade into a smooth paste. Marinate the meats for a minimum of two hours or up to overnight.

    Step 2
  3. 3

    Set your Instant Pot on saute high or use a skillet over medium heat. Add 1-2 tbsp oil, then saute the onions until golden and translucent (6-8 minutes).

    Step 3
  4. 4

    Add the meats, marinade, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves to the pot. Cover with chicken broth, then set to high pressure for 45 minutes. If using a slow cooker or stovetop, set to low heat for 4-6 hours.

    Step 4
  5. 5

    When the instant pot is finished, allow a natural release, then remove the meat. Shred, set aside, and discard the bones.

    Step 5
  6. 6

    Warm up some tortillas, then dip the tortillas in the stew. Build your tacos, top with any optional toppings, then fry over medium heat on a nonstick skillet. Enjoy immediately, preferably with a margarita or cold Mexican beer.

    Step 6
Birria Tacos Recipe
+6

Birria Tacos Recipe

4.7(1.0k)120 min4 servings626 cal

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About this Recipe

The Ultimate Birria Tacos Recipe: Your Next Taco Night Game Changer

Prepare to elevate your taco night to legendary status with our Birria Tacos recipe! These aren't just any tacos; they're an experience of rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying flavors. Originating from Jalisco, Mexico, Birria Tacos are famous for their tender, slow-cooked beef, infused with a complex blend of dried chilies and aromatic spices, then served in crispy tortillas dipped in the flavorful cooking broth, or consommé.

Our guide walks you through creating the most delicious homemade Birria Tacos with a perfect balance of beef shank and sirloin, ensuring every bite is packed with melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The magic truly happens with the rich, vibrant chili sauce made from guajillo and chipotle peppers, which not only tenderizes the meat but also creates that irresistible consommé for dipping your tacos.

Why You'll Love This Birria Tacos Recipe

  • Unforgettable Flavor: A deep, smoky, and slightly spicy profile that's truly addictive.
  • Tender, Juicy Beef: Slow-cooked to perfection, shredding easily.
  • Crispy, Dippable Tacos: Fry your tortillas in the beef fat-infused consommé for a golden, crispy shell.

Tips for Perfect Birria

Getting that authentic taste is simpler than you think! For the best results, don't rush the simmering process. The longer the beef simmers, the more tender it becomes and the deeper the flavor of your birria consommé will be. When assembling, dip your corn or flour tortillas directly into the rich consommé before searing them on a hot pan. This infuses them with flavor and gives them that signature crispy exterior.

Serve your homemade Birria Tacos generously topped with fresh chopped cilantro, diced onion, and a sprinkle of Mexican cheese blend. A squeeze of lime brightens every bite, making this a truly spectacular meal that's perfect for any gathering or a special weeknight dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions