My Fave Birria Tacos

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the deliciousness of My Fave Birria Tacos, where tender, flavorful beef meets a rich, savory broth. This mouthwatering recipe features slow-cooked meat packed with spices, served inside warm tortillas and garnished with fresh cilantro and onions. Perfect for taco night or any gathering, these birria tacos are a crowd-pleaser that brings the vibrant taste of traditional Mexican cuisine to your kitchen.

Amber Walsh

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-11-25T06:54:46.177Z

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Birria tacos stand out for their remarkable combination of flavors. The rich broth, infused with the smoky essence of dried chiles, melds beautifully with the tenderness of slow-cooked beef. Each bite delivers a robust flavor profile, enhanced by spices like cumin and oregano. This complexity makes birria tacos an appealing choice for both seasoned taco aficionados and newcomers alike.

In addition to the savory flavor, the iconic pairing of the beef with fresh toppings elevates the experience. The crunchy onions provide a playful contrast, while the cilantro adds a burst of freshness. Squeezing a lime wedge over the tacos balances the richness, creating a culinary harmony that is irresistible.

A Versatile Recipe for Any Occasion

One of the many reasons My Fave Birria Tacos are loved is their versatility. Whether you are planning a casual taco night with family or hosting a festive gathering with friends, these tacos fit right in. They can easily be scaled up for larger groups without sacrificing flavor or quality, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Moreover, the ingredients are largely accessible, allowing you to whip up this dish without a lot of hassle. You can customize the toppings based on personal preferences, making each taco unique. From adding avocado to spicing things up with jalapeños, the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Birria

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast
  • 1 lb beef shank
  • 2 dried guajillo chiles
  • 2 dried ancho chiles
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  • Corn tortillas
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Diced onions
  • Lime wedges
Instructions will follow.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chiles

Soak the guajillo and ancho chiles in hot water for 15 minutes, then blend with garlic, onion, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.

Cook the Meat

In a large pot, add the beef chuck, beef shank, blended chile sauce, beef broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Simmer

Cover and let the meat cook for 3 hours or until tender. Remove the meat and shred it, then strain the broth.

Assemble Tacos

Heat corn tortillas on a skillet, fill them with shredded beef, garnishing with cilantro and onions, and serve with lime.

Enjoy your delicious birria tacos!

Tips for Perfecting Your Birria Tacos

To achieve the best results, consider marinating the meat overnight in the blended chile mixture. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in an even richer taste. Additionally, slow cooking is key; the longer you allow the meat to simmer, the more tender and flavorful it will become.

When it comes to serving, don't skip the dipping! Many enjoy having a small bowl of the rich broth on the side for dipping their tacos, enhancing the overall experience. This ritual not only intensifies the flavor but also adds a fun interactive element to your meal.

Accompanying Sides and Beverages

Pairing your birria tacos with the right sides and beverages can elevate your dining experience. Traditional sides like Mexican rice or refried beans provide a nourishing complement. You might also want to serve a side of crispy tortilla chips with fresh salsa or guacamole for extra crunch and flavor.

For drinks, a refreshing horchata or tamarind juice can offer a delightful balance to the spicy tacos. If you prefer something alcoholic, a light Mexican lager or a classic margarita can enhance the meal's vibrant flavors. These pairings not only complement the tacos but also create a complete dining experience that celebrates the best of Mexican cuisine.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can use pork or lamb if you prefer.

→ What can I serve with birria tacos?

They are great served with Mexican rice, beans, or a side salad.

My Fave Birria Tacos

Experience the deliciousness of My Fave Birria Tacos, where tender, flavorful beef meets a rich, savory broth. This mouthwatering recipe features slow-cooked meat packed with spices, served inside warm tortillas and garnished with fresh cilantro and onions. Perfect for taco night or any gathering, these birria tacos are a crowd-pleaser that brings the vibrant taste of traditional Mexican cuisine to your kitchen.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration3 hours
Overall Time3 hours 30 minutes

Created by: Amber Walsh

Recipe Type: Global Flavors

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Birria

  1. 2 lbs beef chuck roast
  2. 1 lb beef shank
  3. 2 dried guajillo chiles
  4. 2 dried ancho chiles
  5. 3 cloves garlic
  6. 1 onion, quartered
  7. 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  8. 4 cups beef broth
  9. 1 tsp cumin
  10. 1 tsp oregano
  11. Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  1. Corn tortillas
  2. Chopped fresh cilantro
  3. Diced onions
  4. Lime wedges

How-To Steps

Step 01

Soak the guajillo and ancho chiles in hot water for 15 minutes, then blend with garlic, onion, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.

Step 02

In a large pot, add the beef chuck, beef shank, blended chile sauce, beef broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Step 03

Cover and let the meat cook for 3 hours or until tender. Remove the meat and shred it, then strain the broth.

Step 04

Heat corn tortillas on a skillet, fill them with shredded beef, garnishing with cilantro and onions, and serve with lime.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Protein: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 15g