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Step-by-Step Instructions
Sana Yousaf

birria tacos recipe authentic

A traditional Mexican dish featuring tender, slow-cooked beef or goat in a rich chile-based consomé, served in crispy corn tortillas with melty cheese and garnished with cilantro, onion, and lime. Perfect for taco nights!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:
  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast or goat shoulder bone-in for extra flavor
  • 5 dried guajillo chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 3 dried ancho chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 2 dried chipotle chiles optional, for extra heat
  • 1 large white onion quartered
  • 6 garlic cloves
  • 2 cups beef broth or water for a lighter consomé
  • 1 tbsp oregano Mexican oregano preferred
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 cinnamon stick or ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For Tacos:
  • 12-16 corn tortillas or flour tortillas for a softer texture
  • 2 cups shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil for frying
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 small white onion finely diced (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges for serving

Method
 

  1. Prepare the chiles: Toast guajillo, ancho, and chipotle chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Soak in 2 cups hot water for 15 minutes to soften.
  2. Blend the sauce: Drain chiles and blend with onion, garlic, oregano, cumin, and 1 cup beef broth until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear the meat: Season beef or goat with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the meat for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
  4. Cook the birria: In the same pot, add chile sauce and cook for 2 minutes. Return meat, add remaining broth, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low for 3-4 hours until meat is tender.
  5. Shred the meat: Remove meat, shred with two forks, and reserve consomé. Skim excess fat if desired.
  6. Assemble tacos: Dip a corn tortilla in consomé, place on a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil, and add shredded cheese and meat. Fold tortilla and cook 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.
  7. Serve: Garnish with cilantro, diced onion, and lime. Serve with consomé for dipping.

Notes

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftover meat and consomé in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Quick Version: Use an Instant Pot (45-60 minutes on high pressure) to reduce cooking time.
  • Spice Control: Omit chipotle chiles for a milder flavor or add jalapeños for extra heat.
  • Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack if Oaxaca cheese is unavailable.

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