The Best Ever Mexican Birria

Name: The Best Ever Mexican Birria
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks; 1 onion, diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 3 bay leaves; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp dried oregano; 2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp salt; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup tomato sauce; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tbsp adobo sauce from canned chipotles; Corn tortillas; Chopped cilantro; Diced onions; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the rich, authentic taste of this Best Ever Mexican Birria that combines tender, slow-cooked meat with aromatic spices and savory flavors. Perfect for tacos or as a hearty soup, this comforting dish will transport you straight to the streets of Mexico. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in, it's a culinary experience you won't want to miss!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-10-21T02:43:36.788Z

This dish is a journey through the rich culinary heritage of Mexico, bringing together bold flavors and comforting textures.

The Tradition of Birria

Birria has its origins in the Mexican state of Jalisco, where it is traditionally made with goat meat. However, beef has become increasingly popular due to its accessibility and rich flavor. The use of spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder in this dish not only imparts warmth and depth but also reflects the vibrant culinary heritage of Mexico. Each family may have its own variation, making birria a dish that celebrates cultural diversity and personal traditions.

This recipe brings together the best elements of traditional birria while ensuring that the flavors remain bold and authentic. It also highlights the importance of using fresh ingredients — a fundamental aspect of authentic Mexican cuisine. By slow-cooking the meat, you allow the spices to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and comforting.

Versatile Serving Options

One of the great things about birria is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a rich soup, perfect for chilly evenings, or use it as a filling for tacos. The slow-cooked meat pairs wonderfully with the warm, soft corn tortillas typically served alongside. This makes it a fun, interactive dish suitable for gatherings or family dinners, where everyone can assemble their servings just the way they like.

To elevate your birria experience, consider serving it with fresh toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. These elements not only add brightness but also enhance the dish's flavors. Whether you're hosting a fiesta or just making a cozy meal at home, birria offers a delightful culinary experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of birria can be a true delight, as the flavors tend to deepen over time. To store birria, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain moisture.

For those who plan to make birria in advance, consider preparing the dish a day ahead. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious. Just remember to store the broth separately if you prefer a soup-like consistency when serving.

Ingredients

For the Birria

3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
1 onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 bay leaves
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp dried oregano
2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
2 cups beef broth
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp adobo sauce from canned chipotles

For Serving

Corn tortillas
Chopped cilantro
Diced onions
Lime wedges

Serve with your favorite toppings!

Instructions

Prepare the Meat

In a large pot, combine the beef chuck, onion, garlic, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Add the beef broth, tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, and adobo sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

Slow Cook

Let it simmer for about 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth if necessary.

Shred the Meat

Once cooked, remove the meat and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir well.

Serve

Serve the birria in bowls with corn tortillas on the side. Top with cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.

Enjoy your meal!

Nutritional Information

Birria is not only a treat for the taste buds but also provides a hearty meal packed with protein. With beef as the main ingredient, it contributes significantly to your daily protein needs while offering several essential nutrients. From iron to vitamin B12, birria can be a nourishing choice for your dinner table.

While it's a satisfying dish, be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you're pairing it with tortillas and toppings. Balancing your plate with fresh vegetables or a light salad can create a wholesome meal.

Birria Variations

While this recipe focuses on the classic beef birria, there are countless variations to explore. For instance, some regions make birria with goat or lamb, each offering a unique flavor profile. You might also encounter different spice blends, some incorporating cinnamon or clove for a warming touch.

Vegetarians can enjoy a meatless version of birria by substituting the meat with hearty vegetables or legumes, maintaining the aromatic spices for flavor. Don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients and discover your personal favorite variation!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different meat?

Yes, goat and lamb are also traditional choices for birria.

→ What can I substitute if I don't have adobo sauce?

You can use a mix of chili powder and a dash of vinegar as a substitute.