Birria Tacos

Introduction

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a delicious twist as you share these flavorful and heartwarming Birria Tacos with your loved one. This dish combines perfectly seasoned, tender beef with vibrant toppings, creating a delightful experience that embodies love and romance. Dive into the rich, aromatic flavors that promise to make your dinner unforgettable!

Detailed Ingredients with measures

1 kg beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
1 tbsp vegetable oil
120 g onion, roughly chopped
120 g carrots, diced
100 g celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
30 g dried guajillo chilies, seeds removed
30 g dried ancho chilies, seeds removed
2 tomatoes, chopped
500 ml beef stock
2 bay leaves
5 g ground cumin
5 g dried oregano
5 g smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
12 corn tortillas
50 g cilantro, chopped
50 g white onion, finely chopped
100 g cheese, grated (optional)
Lime wedges for serving

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
Yield: 12 tacos

Enjoy the experience of cooking together as you create these mouthwatering Birria Tacos!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 160°C.

2. Brown the Beef

In a large oven-proof pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef chunks and brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the roughly chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

4. Add Chilies

Add the dried guajillo and ancho chilies to the pot, cooking for 3 minutes to release their flavors.

5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Stock

Mix in the chopped tomatoes, followed by the beef stock. Return the browned beef chunks back into the pot. Add the bay leaves, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

6. Cook in Oven

Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 3 hours or until the beef is tender and shreds easily.

7. Shred Beef and Strain Sauce

Once cooked, remove the beef from the pot and shred it using forks. Strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve to remove any solid pieces.

8. Prepare Tacos

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Dip each tortilla one by one into the reserved sauce, then place it onto the skillet. Add shredded beef and grated cheese (if using) to one half of each tortilla, fold the tortilla, and cook until the cheese has melted.

9. Serve Tacos

Serve the Birria Tacos with chopped cilantro, finely chopped white onion, and lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Cooking Time

The total cooking process takes approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Serving Size

This recipe yields 12 tacos, making it ideal for a romantic meal to share between two.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to adjust the ingredients. For a spicier kick, you can add more chilies or serve with a spicy salsa.

Storage

Leftover beef and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them before making additional tacos.

Enjoy the Experience

Cooking together can create a memorable experience, enhancing the romantic flair of the meal!

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Store leftover Birria Taco filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the sauce is also stored separately to maintain the moisture of the meat.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the filling. Place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the filling on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock to keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Birria Tacos hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, white onions, and serve with lime wedges on the side for a zingy flavor. Pair them with a side of Mexican street corn or a light salad for a complete meal. For a romantic touch, consider serving with a glass of homemade horchata or a red wine to complement the richness of the tacos.

Nutritional Information

Each taco contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 16g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sodium: 400mg
(Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements used.)

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider the following:
– Beef Chuck Roast: You can substitute it with pork shoulder or even chicken thighs for a lighter option.
– Dried Guajillo and Ancho Chilies: If unavailable, use a mix of paprika and dried chili flakes for heat and flavor.
– Tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used instead of corn for a softer texture.
– Cheese: Use queso fresco or Monterey Jack if you want a different flavor.
– Beef Stock: Vegetable stock can be used for a vegetarian version.
– Cilantro: If you prefer, parsley can be used as a fresh herb alternative.

Cook Techniques

Browning Meat

Browning the beef chunks in oil creates a rich, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Sautéing Vegetables

Sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery softens them and builds a flavorful base for the sauce.

Infusing Flavors

Cooking dried chilies in the pot helps to release their essential oils and spices, enriching the broth with depth.

Slow Cooking

Cooking the beef in the oven for several hours allows it to become tender and easily shreddable, while also melding the flavors.

Straining Sauce

Straining the sauce removes solid pieces, resulting in a smooth, flavorful broth to dip the tortillas.

Cheesy Tortillas

Folding the tortillas with shredded beef and cheese allows for a delightful melty texture and enhances the flavor profile.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat for Birria Tacos?

Yes, you can use lamb or goat meat as alternatives, but beef chuck roast is recommended for its tenderness.

How spicy are these tacos?

The spiciness can be adjusted by adding or reducing the amount of dried chilies used in the recipe.

Can I make the beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! The beef can be cooked a day in advance and then reheated before serving.

What do I serve with Birria Tacos?

Serve with side dishes like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Are there vegetarian options for Birria?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version using mushrooms or jackfruit as a meat substitute, and vegetable broth instead of beef stock.

Conclusion

Sharing these Valentine’s Birria Tacos with your loved one is a wonderful way to celebrate the occasion. The tender, flavor-packed meat combined with fresh toppings creates a memorable dining experience. Enjoy the rich aromas and heartfelt flavors that make this dish perfect for a romantic night in.

Spicy Chicken Tacos

Try substituting the beef with marinated, shredded spicy chicken for a lighter twist that still packs a flavor punch.

Vegetarian Birria Tacos

For a vegetarian option, use jackfruit or mushrooms as the base, simmered in the same rich sauce for a delicious meat-free alternative.

Surf and Turf Tacos

Combine beef with shrimp or fish for an indulgent surf and turf version, elevating the classic Birria with ocean-fresh flavors.

Birria Quesadillas

Create cheesy quesadillas using the same seasoned meat and lots of cheese, grilled to perfection for a crispy, melty treat.

Birria Nachos

Transform your Birria experience by topping corn tortilla chips with shredded meat, cheese, and all your favorite toppings for a fun and shareable dish.

Spicy Salsa Verde

Serve a zesty salsa verde on the side to complement the tacos, adding an extra layer of taste and freshness.

Flavored Corn Tortillas

Make your own tortillas using flavored masa (like spinach or beet) to add a pop of color and unique taste to your Birria tacos.