Authentic Birria Tacos Recipe with Consomé

Craving a taste of authentic Mexican street food? Look no further than these mouthwatering Birria Tacos! This recipe is a labor of love, but trust me, the effort is absolutely worth it. Picture juicy, flavorful meat tucked inside crispy tortillas, topped with gooey cheese, and served with a rich consomé for dipping – pure taco perfection.

I stumbled upon this Birria Tacos recipe during a winter quest to recreate the flavors of a memorable vacation. The process may seem daunting, but the end result is nothing short of spectacular. I recently whipped up a batch for my sister’s birthday, and even her discerning palate, honed from living in Mexico, gave these tacos a resounding seal of approval. Even the spice-averse in my family couldn’t resist indulging in multiple servings, testament to the irresistible allure of these tacos.

Whether you serve them up family-style or set up a taco bar for a party, these Birria Tacos are sure to impress. The secret lies in perfectly toasted chiles, a well-marinated meat filling, and the patience to let the flavors meld. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Mexico with every delicious bite of these Birria Tacos.

Quick Benefits

• Exceptional Taste: Juicy, cheesy tacos with a crisp exterior from frying in consomé.
• Versatile: Can be made with different meats like goat or lamb, and the filling can be used in quesadillas for a party shortcut.
• Make-ahead: Birria improves with time, make it a day ahead and refrigerate, or freeze meat and consomé separately for up to three months.

Why You’ll Love This Authentic Birria Tacos Recipe with Consomé Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of juicy meat, flavorful spices, and rich consomé creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
• Authentic Experience: Recreating a beloved street food dish, these birria tacos offer a taste of Mexico that will transport you to the streets of a bustling market.
• Family and Party Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, these tacos can be served family-style or as part of a taco bar, making them a hit at any event.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable by adding adobo sauce for smoky heat, or using different meats like goat or lamb to suit your taste preferences.
• Make-ahead Convenience: Prepare the birria a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat before serving, making it a convenient option for busy days or planned events.
• Freezer-Friendly: Both the meat and consomé can be frozen separately, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal even on your busiest days.
• Special Touches: The sizzling tortillas, melted cheese, and tender meat create a sensory experience that will make every bite feel special and memorable.

Ingredients for Authentic Birria Tacos Recipe with Consomé

Meat

• 1 teaspoon neutral oil (avocado or vegetable oil)
• 1 pound oxtail or bone-in short ribs
• Kosher salt, to taste
• 2 pounds boneless chuck roast

Chile Sauce

• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 4 roma tomatoes
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 3 chiles de arbol, stems and seeds removed
• 1/2 Mexican cinnamon stick
• 7 guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
• 3 cups beef broth or water, divided
• 6 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 7 ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 white onion, peeled and halved
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Taco Assembly

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, minced
• 1/4 white onion, minced
• Juice from 1 lime
• 3 ounces Oaxacan cheese or mozzarella, shredded
• Corn tortillas
• Kosher salt, to taste

How to Make Authentic Birria Tacos Recipe with Consomé

Step 1: Prepare and sear the meat

Let meat rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, then generously season with kosher salt. Heat neutral oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear meat in batches until well browned on all sides. Transfer to a bowl after searing.

Step 2: Prepare the chile mixture

Place dried chiles, halved onion, garlic, tomatoes, peppercorns, oregano, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves in a medium pot. Cover with cold water and simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make the sauce

After simmering, strain the ingredients and set aside the solids with whole spices. Blend the solids with apple cider vinegar and 1 cup of beef broth or water until smooth, about 2 minutes. Season with salt, then strain the sauce for a smoother consistency, if preferred.

Step 4: Braise the meat

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place seared meat back in the Dutch oven, pour sauce over it. Add 2 cups broth/water to blender to collect any remaining sauce, then pour into pot. Simmer on stovetop, cover, and transfer to oven. Braise for 3 hours until meat is fork-tender.

Step 5: Prepare taco toppings

While the meat is braising, mix minced cilantro, minced white onion, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 6: Shred the meat

After the meat is tender, take it out of the sauce and shred it with two forks. Remove any excess fat from the top of the consommé and set it aside for frying the tacos. Transfer some of the consommé to a serving bowl and mix in a handful of chopped cilantro.

Step 7: Assemble and fry the tacos

Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Dip a corn tortilla in the consommé fat, place in skillet, and fry for 30 seconds. Flip and add shredded meat and Oaxacan cheese to one side. Fold tortilla in half, cook until crispy, about 1 minute per side.

Step 8: Serve

Plate the tacos and serve immediately with cilantro-onion mixture, lime wedges, and small bowls of hot consommé for dipping.

Storage Tips

To store the finished birria tacos dish, it is recommended to refrigerate any leftovers promptly. Transfer the remaining meat and consomé into airtight containers and place them in the refrigerator. The birria will keep well for a few days, allowing the flavors to further develop.

For longer storage, you can freeze the birria meat and consomé separately. Place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing any excess air before sealing. The birria can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the meat and consomé overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving. This allows you to savor the delicious flavors of the birria tacos at a later time, maintaining their quality and taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

For ingredient substitutions in this Birria Tacos recipe, you can consider using different types of meat based on availability or preference. Instead of boneless chuck roast and oxtail or bone-in short ribs, you could use beef brisket, beef shank, or even pork shoulder for a different flavor profile. Lamb or goat can also be used for a unique twist on traditional birria.

If you cannot find specific dried chiles like ancho, guajillo, and chiles de arbol, you can substitute them with other dried chiles that are more commonly available to you. For example, you can use New Mexico chiles, pasilla chiles, or chipotle chiles for a similar smoky and spicy flavor. Adjust the quantity based on the heat level you prefer.

In the cheese department, if you can’t find Oaxacan cheese, you can substitute it with mozzarella or any other melty cheese that you prefer. The cheese is meant to add richness and creaminess to the tacos, so feel free to use a cheese that melts well and complements the flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a festive taco night, consider setting up a birria taco bar with a variety of toppings like diced onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and extra shredded cheese. Let your guests customize their tacos with their favorite condiments for a personalized dining experience. Pair the tacos with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal that will surely impress your guests.

To elevate your birria tacos further, consider serving them alongside a refreshing cucumber and jicama salad with a tangy lime dressing. The crisp and crunchy salad will provide a cooling contrast to the rich and flavorful tacos, creating a well-balanced meal. You can also offer a selection of hot sauces or salsas for those who enjoy an extra kick of heat. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a lively party, these birria tacos are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

FAQs for Authentic Birria Tacos Recipe with Consomé

Question?

Why is it important to remove the seeds and stems from the chiles in this birria tacos recipe?

Question?

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chuck roast and oxtail/short ribs in this recipe?

Question?

Can I make the birria meat a day ahead and refrigerate it before serving?

Question?

What are some variations or additions I can make to this birria tacos recipe?

Conclusion

Birria Tacos are more than just a dish; they’re an experience that brings people together. The process of making these tacos may seem daunting, but the rewards are truly worth it. The rich flavors, tender meat, and comforting consomé create a culinary masterpiece that will have your loved ones coming back for more.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delicious meal, Birria Tacos are sure to impress. So gather your friends and family, set up a taco bar, and enjoy the magic of these flavorful tacos. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different meats or spice levels to make the recipe your own. Embrace the journey of cooking and savor every bite of these unforgettable Birria Tacos!