Authentic Mexican Beef Birria

Name: Authentic Mexican Beef Birria
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 240 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1.5 kg beef chuck (cut into large chunks); 500 g beef short ribs; 4 guajillo chillies (seeded and dried); 2 ancho chillies (seeded and dried); 1 tsp cumin seeds; 1 tsp black peppercorns; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 4 cloves garlic (crushed); 1 onion (chopped); 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 bay leaf; corn tortillas (warmed); fresh coriander (chopped); onion (diced)

240 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savour the rich, spicy flavours of authentic Mexican beef birria with tender beef slow-cooked to perfection in a robust broth.

Prep

30 min

Cook

180 min

Total

240 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Beef birria is a traditional Mexican dish known for its rich, spicy, and savoury broth infused with aromatic spices. Originating from the state of Jalisco, this dish has won the hearts of many with its tender, juicy beef bathed in an intensely flavoured sauce. Our version of beef birria stays true to its roots, using a blend of dried chillies and spices to create a deep, complex flavour profile. The slow-cooked beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, perfect for serving with tortillas or as a hearty stew. This recipe is perfect for those who love bold flavours and are looking to explore authentic Mexican cuisine. Whether you're preparing it for a family gathering or a special occasion, birria is sure to impress.

Instructions

Prepare the chillies

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Toast guajillo and ancho chillies until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and soak in hot water for 15 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure not to burn the chillies as it will make them bitter.

Blend the marinade

Drain chillies and blend with cumin, peppercorns, oregano, cinnamon, garlic, onion, vinegar, and 1 cup of soaking water until smooth.

Pro tip: Strain the sauce to remove any large pieces if desired.

Marinate the beef

Combine beef chunks and short ribs with the marinade in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Pro tip: Longer marination enhances the flavour.

Cook the beef

Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F). Transfer beef and marinade to a large ovenproof pot, add bay leaf, cover, and cook for 3 hours until tender.

Pro tip: Check periodically to ensure liquid level is maintained.

Shred the beef

Remove beef from the pot and shred with two forks. Return shredded beef to the pot and mix with the sauce.

Pro tip: Skim off any excess fat for a leaner dish.

Serve

Serve the beef birria with warm tortillas, topped with fresh coriander and diced onion.

Pro tip: For an extra kick, add a squeeze of lime.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a mix of beef cuts like chuck and short ribs for a flavourful result.
Toast the spices to enhance their aroma and depth.
Adjust the chillies to your preferred spice level.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is beef birria?

Beef birria is a traditional Mexican dish known for its rich, spicy, and savoury broth with tender beef, originating from Jalisco.

How long does it take to make beef birria?

The total time to make beef birria is approximately 4 hours, including preparation, cooking, and resting.

What cuts of beef are best for birria?

Beef chuck and short ribs are ideal for birria due to their marbling and ability to become tender when slow-cooked.

Can I make birria ahead of time?

Yes, birria can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

How spicy is beef birria?

Beef birria has a moderate level of spice, which can be adjusted by the type and amount of chillies used.

What's the best way to serve beef birria?

Serve beef birria with warm corn tortillas, fresh coriander, diced onions, and a lime wedge for added flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your beef birria with warm corn tortillas, diced onions, and fresh coriander for an authentic experience. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing margarita or a classic Mexican beer. Birria can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

35g

Protein

30g

Fat

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