Birria Tacos

2 February 2026
Written By barry

Birria Tacos

Birria Tacos are a mouthwatering dish that embodies the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Mexico. Originating from the western state of Jalisco, these delectable tacos feature tender, slow-cooked beef enveloped in warm corn tortillas, making them a favorite for both casual gatherings and festive occasions. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a cozy family dinner, or simply craving something extraordinary, these tacos will steal the show and leave everyone reaching for seconds.

What truly sets Birria Tacos apart is their famous consomé, a savory broth that’s just as essential as the tacos themselves. The intoxicating aroma of simmering spices fills your kitchen as the beef transforms into a tender and flavorful treat. Once you’ve tasted these tacos, you’ll understand why they’ve become a beloved dish across the globe.

Birria Tacos

This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast
  • 3 dried guajillo chiles
  • 3 dried pasilla chiles
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 8 oz Oaxacan cheese, shredded
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Birria Tacos

Ingredients for preparing the delicious Birria Tacos.

Directions

  1. Toast the dried guajillo and pasilla chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant. Soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes to soften.
  2. In a blender, combine the soaked chiles, onion, garlic, beef broth, cumin, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and well combined.
  3. In a large pot, add the beef chuck roast and pour the blended sauce over it. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 2-3 hours until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
  4. Once cooked, remove the beef and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot, allowing it to soak up more flavorful sauce.
  5. For the tacos, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a corn tortilla. Place some shredded beef and a generous amount of Oaxacan cheese on one half. Fold the tortilla and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
  6. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. Serve the tacos with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a side of the delicious consomé.

Tips & Variations

  • Ingredient substitutions: If Oaxacan cheese is unavailable, you can use mozzarella or queso fresco as a milder alternative.
  • Optional variations: Add diced onions and fresh radishes for a crunchy topping or a splash of hot sauce if you crave extra heat.
  • Storage or reheating tips: Store any leftover beef and consomé in airtight containers. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep the beef moist.

Recipe Information

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 3 hours
  • Total time: 3 hours 20 minutes
  • Servings: 8
  • Difficulty level: Intermediate

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Generic image description of Birria Tacos, perfect to visualize this tasty dish.

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