Traditional Mexican Birria
A mouthwatering savory stew that embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine, featuring tender beef in a rich, spicy sauce, perfect for gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks for a melt-in-your-mouth texture
- 2 pieces dried guajillo chiles for a rich, fruity heat
- 2 pieces dried ancho chiles adding a sweet, mild flavor
- 2 cloves garlic for aromatic depth
- 1 small onion, chopped to complement the meat
- 2 tsp cumin for that earthy, warm spice
- 1 tsp oregano to bring in herbal notes
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves for a hint of warmth
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon enhancing the cozy flavors
- 4 cups beef broth the flavorful base
- 2 tbsp vinegar to balance the richness
- Salt and pepper to taste enhancing all flavors
- Corn tortillas for serving the perfect vehicle for this stew
- Fresh cilantro for garnish adding a burst of freshness
- Onion for garnish for that classic touch
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by toasting the guajillo and ancho chiles in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be sure to remove the stems and seeds.
- In a blender, combine the toasted chiles, garlic, chopped onion, cumin, oregano, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and 1 cup of beef broth. Blend until smooth.
- Season the beef chunks generously with salt and pepper. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat and sear the beef until browned on all sides.
- Pour the blended chili sauce over the beef and add the remaining beef broth and vinegar. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing the stew to simmer for 2-3 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the beef directly in the pot, stirring it back into the rich broth.
- Serve the Birria hot, filling warmed corn tortillas with the stew and garnishing with fresh cilantro and diced onion.
Notes
To enhance the flavors, marinate the beef in the blended sauce overnight. Adjust seasoning with lime juice or hot sauce for an extra kick. Optional extras like cheese can be added.