Best Birria Tacos

Name: Best Birria Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast; 2 cups beef broth; 3 dried guajillo chiles; 3 dried ancho chiles; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Corn tortillas; Chopped onions; Chopped cilantro; Lime wedges; Consomé for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the rich, savory goodness of these authentic Birria Tacos! Slow-cooked to perfection in a fragrant blend of spices, tender meat is enveloped in warm corn tortillas and served with a flavorful consomé for dipping. This crowd-pleasing recipe delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will elevate any taco night.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-10T08:05:11.416Z

These Birria Tacos are a culinary delight that tells a story of tradition and flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

A Flavorful Adventure

The journey to creating the perfect Birria Tacos begins with the vibrant flavors of the chiles. Guajillo and ancho chiles are essential components, lending a deep, smoky essence that forms the backbone of the dish. By soaking these chiles in hot water, you unlock their rich flavors, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary experience. This step ensures that when blended, the chiles create a silky marinade that envelops the meat with each bite.

Birria is a dish rooted in tradition, originally hailing from the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Over the years, it has become a beloved dish, often featured at celebrations and family gatherings. The slow-cooked beef, infused with a blend of spices, not only tantalizes the taste buds but also creates a sense of nostalgia. As you prepare these tacos, you’re not just cooking a meal; you’re embracing a cultural legacy passed down through generations.

The Perfect Pairings

Serving Birria Tacos is not just about the meat and tortillas; it's about the whole experience. Accompaniments like diced onions and fresh cilantro add a crunchy texture and bright flavor that contrast beautifully with the tender meat. The zest from lime wedges enhances each bite, while the consomé, a rich broth made from the cooking liquid, offers a unique dipping experience that elevates the meal to a whole new level.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional toppings to customize your Birria Tacos. Add a dollop of sour cream, slices of avocado, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. Each modification allows you to tailor these delicious tacos to your personal taste, making them a flexible choice for any taco night or special occasion.

Tips for Success

Ingredients

For the Birria

2 lbs beef chuck roast
2 cups beef broth
3 dried guajillo chiles
3 dried ancho chiles
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Corn tortillas
Chopped onions
Chopped cilantro
Lime wedges
Consomé for dipping

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the Chiles

Remove seeds and stems from the guajillo and ancho chiles, then soak in hot water for 15 minutes.

Make the Marinade

Blend the soaked chiles with garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, and some beef broth until smooth.

Marinate the Meat

Rub the marinade over the beef chuck roast and let it sit for at least 2 hours or overnight in the fridge.

Cook the Meat

Place the marinated meat in a slow cooker, add remaining beef broth, and cook on low for about 3 hours until tender.

Shred the Meat

Remove the meat from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

Assemble the Tacos

Fill warm corn tortillas with shredded meat, top with onions and cilantro.

Serve

Serve the tacos with a side of consomé for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Birria Tacos!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover meat, it stores beautifully! Allow the Birria to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerated, it will keep for up to three days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth to retain moisture.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the shredded meat. Portion it out in freezer bags, ensuring that you press out any excess air before sealing. This method allows for easy meal planning, ensuring you have delicious Birria at your fingertips whenever the craving strikes.

Pairing Recommendations

When it comes to drink pairings for your Birria Tacos, a light Mexican lager or a refreshing margarita can enhance the experience significantly. The crispness of the lager cuts through the richness of the beef, while the tartness of a lime margarita complements the flavors of the dish wonderfully.

For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a traditional Mexican aguas frescas, such as horchata or agua de jamaica, offers a fresh balance to the savory richness of the tacos. These drinks not only provide refreshment but also round out the meal with their vibrant flavors, appealing to all tastes.