How to Make Authentic Quesabirria Tacos: A Delicious Mexican Delight
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine the Beef and Sauce: Add the browned beef back into the pot with the sauce. Stir to combine everything well.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! You can use pork, lamb, or even chicken in place of beef.
- 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.
- 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.
