Description
Beef Birria is a traditional Mexican dish known for its rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors. Originally from the state of Jalisco, this savory stew is typically made with beef, a medley of dried chiles, aromatic spices, and a blend of slow-cooked ingredients that create a deeply flavorful broth. Often served with fresh corn tortillas, lime wedges, and garnishes like onions and cilantro, Beef Birria has become a beloved dish around the world. Perfect for tacos, quesadillas, or simply enjoying as a stew, it’s a versatile and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Gather these ingredients to make Beef Birria:
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
- 1 lb beef short ribs (optional)
- 4 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
- 3 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
- 2 dried chipotle chiles
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 6 garlic cloves
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Diced onion (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Corn tortillas (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Prepare the Chile Sauce:
- Toast the Chiles: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the guajillo, ancho, and chipotle chiles for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Soak the Chiles: Place the toasted chiles in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes until softened.
- Blend the Sauce: Drain the chiles and add them to a blender along with the onion, garlic, tomatoes, vinegar, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Blend until smooth, adding a bit of the soaking water if needed for a smooth consistency.
Prepare the Beef:
- Season the Beef: Season the beef chuck roast and short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Meat: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef pieces on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Birria:
- Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot and pour the chile sauce over the meat. Add the beef broth and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 3.5-4.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Finish the Dish:
- Shred the Beef: Remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat or bones.
- Strain the Broth (Optional): Strain the broth for a smoother consistency, if desired, then return it to the pot.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3.5-4.5 hours
- Category: dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 500-550 kcal
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 40g