Description
Smoky, cheesy birria tacos redefine Mexican street cuisine with their rich, tender meat and melted cheese. Crisp tortillas cradle succulent beef, inviting you to savor each mouthwatering bite of this irresistible culinary experience.
Ingredients
Meat:
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast
Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon coarse black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Chili Peppers and Aromatics:
- 4 dried guajillo chiles (stems and seeds removed)
- 2 dried ancho chiles (stems and seeds removed)
- 2 chiles de arbol (for heat, optional)
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 2 roma tomatoes, halved
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (for searing)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 additional cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 bay leaf
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Oaxaca or Monterey Jack cheese
Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced white onion
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef for Smoking
Initiate the smoking process by heating the smoker to a precise 225F using robust mesquite or hickory wood chips. Thoroughly coat the chuck roast with a blend of salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and garlic powder, ensuring an even distribution of seasonings.
- Craft the Aromatic Consomme
Toast dried chiles in a dry skillet until they release their complex fragrance, roughly 30 seconds per side. Combine the toasted chiles with garlic, onion, and tomatoes in a pot, allowing them to simmer in beef broth for 15 minutes until ingredients soften completely. Transform the mixture into a silky sauce by blending with oregano, cinnamon, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Strain the liquid to achieve a smooth, refined consomme.
- Tenderize the Smoked Meat
Transfer the smoked beef into a Dutch oven, enveloping it with the prepared consomme and additional beef broth. Cover and braise at 300F for approximately 3 hours until the meat becomes incredibly tender and easily pulls apart. Carefully shred the beef and incorporate some of the rich consomme to enhance its moisture and flavor.
- Create Crispy Quesabirria Tacos
Warm a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Delicately dip each tortilla into the consomme, allowing it to absorb the flavorful liquid. Place the tortilla on the heated surface and layer generously with shredded cheese and tender smoked beef. Fold the tortilla into a half-moon shape and cook until achieving a golden, crispy exterior, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Elevate the Presentation
Garnish the tacos with fresh chopped cilantro, finely diced onion, and a bright squeeze of lime. Serve alongside a warm cup of consomme for an authentic dipping experience that enhances the overall taste and enjoyment of the dish.
Notes
- Experiment with wood chips like apple or oak for a milder, more nuanced smoky flavor that complements the beef’s richness.
- Adjust chile types to control spice levels, using guajillo for mild heat or adding arbol chiles for extra kick.
- Consider preparing meat a day ahead, as flavors intensify when allowed to rest overnight in the consomme.
- Swap chuck roast with chuck short ribs or brisket for alternative textures and deeper meat complexity.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg