Quesabirria Tacos

Ingredients Needed for Quesabirria Tacos

• 3 lbs boneless beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
• 2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
• 2 Roma tomatoes, quartered
• 1 medium onion, halved
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2 cups beef broth
• 16-20 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella)
• Chopped white onion and cilantro, for serving

Preparation Notes:

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Cut the beef into large chunks for easier cooking.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Quesabirria Tacos

1. Brown the Beef: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pot, add the guajillo and ancho chiles, tomatoes, onion, garlic, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, oregano, cumin, salt, and black peppercorns. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
3. Blend the Sauce: After simmering, remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaf. Carefully transfer the sauce to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the sauce to the pot.
4. Combine the Beef and Sauce: Add the browned beef back into the pot with the sauce. Stir to combine everything well.
5. Braise the Beef: Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let it braise for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Shred the Beef: Once cooked, take the pot out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces.
7. Assemble the Tacos: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Dip a corn tortilla into the birria sauce, coating both sides. Place the tortilla on the skillet and fill it with some shredded beef and a handful of Oaxaca cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the cheese melts and the tortilla is crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the quesabirria tacos hot, garnished with chopped onion and cilantro. Don’t forget to provide a small bowl of the birria sauce (consomé) on the side for dipping!

Tips and Tricks:

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, use fewer chiles. For more heat, feel free to add extra.
• Customize Your Toppings: Serve your tacos with diced onions, fresh cilantro, crumbled queso fresco, and lime wedges for added flavor.
• Make Ahead: The birria can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat before assembling the tacos.

Serving and Storing Your Quesabirria Tacos

• Serving Suggestions: Quesabirria tacos are best served with a side of warm consomé for dipping. You can also serve them with Mexican rice or refried beans.
• Pairings: These tacos pair well with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store any leftover birria in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.

Recipe Variations:

• Pork Quesabirria: Substitute pork shoulder for the beef for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Use jackfruit or mushrooms instead of meat for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Quesabirria Tostadas: Serve the birria on crispy tostadas topped with cheese and fresh veggies for a fun twist.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 35 grams
• Fat: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams

Quesabirria Tacos: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between quesabirria and traditional birria? Quesabirria combines the stewed birria meat with cheese inside a tortilla, while traditional birria is served as a stew.
2. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! You can use pork, lamb, or even chicken in place of beef.
3. How long do the tacos need to cook? Cook the assembled tacos for about 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and the cheese is melted.
4. What is the best way to reheat leftover birria? Reheat the birria on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Conclusion: