A Brief History of Birria
Birria comes from Jalisco, Mexico Traditionally, it was made with goat and served as a stew at weddings and holidays Over time, beef became more common, especially in northern Mexico and the U.S.The taco version rose to fame in Los Angeles. Food trucks began crisping the tortillas and serving the broth on the side Social media did the rest Today, Birria Tacos are a global obsession while still honoring their roots
Why Birria Tacos Are So Popular in the U.S.
● Bold, comforting flavors
● Crispy texture meets juicy meat
● Interactive dipping experience
● Perfect for sharing
● Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
Authentic Birria Tacos Recipe Ingredients
For the Meat
● 3 lbs beef chuck roast
● 1 lb beef short ribs (optional but recommended)
For the Chile Sauce
● 5 dried guajillo chiles
● 3 dried ancho chiles
● 2 dried arbol chiles (optional, for heat)
● 1 medium onion, quartered
● 6 garlic cloves
● 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
● 1 tsp ground cumin
● 1 tsp dried oregano
● ½ tsp ground cinnamon
● 2 bay leaves
● Salt to taste
For the Tacos
● Corn tortillas
● 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese (for birria tacos with cheese)
● Chopped white onion
● Fresh cilantro
● Lime wedges
Step 1: Prepare the Chile Sauce
Remove stems and seeds from dried chiles. Toast lightly in a dry pan for 30 seconds per side. Don’t burn them
Soak chiles in hot water for 20 minutes until soft.
Blend chiles with soaking liquid, onion, garlic, vinegar, spices, and salt until smooth
This sauce is the heart of Birria Tacos. Rich. Smoky. Aromatic.
Step 2: Braise the Meat
Season the beef generously with salt.
Place meat in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker Pour the chile sauce over the meat Add bay leaves.
Cover and cook:
● Oven: 325°F for 3½–4 hours
● Slow cooker: Low for 8 hours
● Instant Pot: 60 minutes, natural release
The meat should shred easily with a fork.
Step 3: Shred and Save the Consommé
Remove the meat Shred it finely
Skim excess fat from the broth, but don’t discard it That fat is flavor You’ll use it for frying
The broth is your consommé Adjust salt if needed Keep it warm
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Dip a corn tortilla into the top layer of the consommé (where the fat floats)
Place on a hot skillet. Add shredded meat. Add cheese if making birria tacos with cheese.
Fold the tortilla
Step 5: Fry Until Crispy
Cook each side until golden and crispy.
This is where crispy birria tacos are born Crunch outside Juicy inside
Serve hot with consommé for dipping.
Flavor Tips for Next-Level Birria Tacos
● Toast chiles lightly for depth
● Shred meat finely for better texture
● Use corn tortillas only
● Fry slowly for even crisping
● Add cheese only after the tortilla hits the pan
Small details Big difference
Popular Birria Tacos Variations
Birria Tacos with Cheese
Also called quesabirria Melted cheese adds richness and stretch Mozzarella or Oaxaca works best.
Crispy Birria Tacos
Fried longer for extra crunch. Ideal for dipping.
Birria Ramen
Noodles cooked in consommé. Topped with birria meat.
Birria Burritos
Wrapped big Perfect for leftovers
Oven-Baked Birria Tacos
Less oil Still crispy Great for parties
How to Make Birria Tacos Healthier
● Trim excess fat from the meat
● Use less frying fat
● Skip cheese or reduce amount
● Serve with fresh toppings
● Pair with a simple salad
Still satisfying. Slightly lighter.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
● Meat lasts 4 days refrigerated
● Consommé freezes well for 3 months
● Reheat meat in broth to stay juicy
● Fry tacos fresh for best texture
Final Thoughts
Birria Tacos are more than a food trend; they are a reflection of tradition, patience, and bold Mexican flavors brought together with care From the slow braise that builds deep richness to the final crisping of the tortilla, every step plays a role in creating something truly special What makes birria tacos unforgettable is the balance: tender, juicy meat, a deeply seasoned consommé, and that irresistible crispy exteriorWhether you enjoy them classic, as birria tacos with cheese, or extra crispy birria tacos, the soul of the dish remains the same It’s comfort food with history. Food meant to be shared. Food that rewards time and attention.
FAQs About Birria Tacos
What are Birria Tacos made of?
Birria Tacos are made of slow-braised meat, dried chiles, spices, corn tortillas, and a rich consommé used for dipping.
What meat is best for Birria Tacos?
Beef chuck roast is most common in the U.S. Goat is traditional. Short ribs add richness.
Are Birria Tacos spicy?
They are flavorful, not overly spicy. Heat level depends on the chiles used.
What are birria tacos with cheese?
Birria tacos with cheese, also called quesabirria, include melted cheese inside the taco for extra richness
How do you get Birria Tacos crispy?
Dip tortillas in the consommé fat and pan-fry until golden on both sides.
Can Birria Tacos be made ahead?
Yes The meat and broth can be made days ahead Fry tacos just before serving
Are Birria Tacos gluten-free?
Yes, when made with corn tortillas and gluten-free spices
