Go Back
+ servings
Birria Tacos

Irresistible Birria Tacos With Flavor-Packed Consomé

Discover the joy of Birria Tacos, featuring tender beef and a savory consomé—perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 tacos
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chili Paste
  • 4 pieces Dried guajillo peppers Adds a rich, smoky flavor; substitute with other dried chilis if unavailable.
  • 2 pieces Dried ancho chiles Provides sweetness and depth; can be replaced with more guajillo or other mild dried chilis.
  • 2 pieces Chipotle peppers in adobo Contributes heat and smokiness; omit for a milder sauce or use fresh jalapeños.
  • 1 cup Onion (chopped) Adds sweetness and flavor; use yellow or white onion based on preference.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Enhances savory notes; fresh garlic is best, but powdered can substitute if necessary.
  • 1 can Crushed tomatoes Adds substance and moisture; substitute with fresh diced tomatoes when in season.
  • 1/4 cup Apple cider vinegar Balances flavors with acidity; white vinegar can be used in place of it.
For the Braise
  • 4 cups Organic beef stock Provides a savory base for the sauce; can substitute with vegetable stock for a vegan version.
  • 2 pieces Bay leaves Adds depth during cooking; leave out if unavailable.
  • 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano Provides a unique herbal flavor; sub with regular oregano if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme Contributes flavor complexity; can omit or use Italian seasoning instead.
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Ground allspice
  • 3 pounds Chuck roast beef Primary filling that’s tender and shreddable; can use lamb, chicken, or goat as alternatives.
For Assembly
  • 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil Used for browning meat; substitute with canola oil if needed.
  • to taste Sea salt For seasoning the meat; adjust to taste.
  • to taste Black pepper For seasoning the meat; adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder For seasoning the meat; adjust to taste.
  • 12 pieces Organic corn tortillas Holds the taco filling; for gluten-free, corn is best.
  • 1 cup Oaxaca cheese Meltable cheese for inside the tacos; substitute with mozzarella or vegan cheese options.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro (chopped) For garnish and freshness; omit if herb allergies exist.
  • 1 cup Pico de Gallo A fresh topping; use store-bought or homemade as an optional addition.

Equipment

  • large Dutch oven
  • Blender
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Chili Paste: Start by removing the stems and seeds from the dried guajillo and ancho chiles. In a pot, bring your organic beef stock to a boil and add the chiles, allowing them to soften for about 15 minutes. Once tender, blend the chiles with chopped onion, garlic cloves, crushed tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and spices until you achieve a smooth paste.
  2. Cook the Meat: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large Dutch oven, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chuck roast beef generously with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder before searing it for about 4-5 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Remove the beef and sauté the onions in the same pot until they are translucent.
  3. Combine and Braise: Return the seared beef to the pot, then mix in the prepared chili paste. Pour in any remaining beef stock, along with water until just covering the meat. Toss in bay leaves and Mexican oregano, then bring everything to a simmer. Cover and transfer the Dutch oven to your preheated oven, braising for 2.5 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
  4. Shred the Beef: After braising, remove the Dutch oven from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Carefully take out the beef and shred it using two forks. Ensure there's enough delicious sauce remaining in the pot—this will keep your Birria Tacos moist and flavorful.
  5. Dipping Sauce: Set aside a cup of the rich broth from the pot to serve as your dipping consomé. Strain the remaining sauce if desired, or keep it chunky, depending on your preference. This savory liquid is essential for that authentic Birria Tacos experience.
  6. Assemble Tacos: To assemble the Ultimate Birria Tacos, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Briefly dip each corn tortilla into the warm consomé before placing it in the hot skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes pliable and slightly crisp. Fill each tortilla with the shredded beef, sautéed onions, a sprinkle of cheese, and top with fresh cilantro.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Once filled, fold the tacos and cook for another 1-2 minutes per side until they turn golden and crispy. Plate your tacos, serve with the reserved dipping consomé, and add any extra toppings like Pico de Gallo and lime wedges if you desire. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Birria Tacos right away!

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Make-ahead magic: Prepare your ingredients in advance to save time on busy days. Store leftover Birria Tacos in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!