Birria tacos (specifically Quesabirria) have rightfully earned their spot as one of the most beloved viral foods of all time. Originating from Jalisco, Mexico, this dish involves slow-cooking beef in a rich, deeply flavorful red chili broth (consommé) until it falls apart.

The magic happens when you assemble the tacos. You dip corn tortillas directly into the fat that floats to the top of the consommé, place them in a hot skillet, and stuff them with melted Oaxaca cheese and the shredded beef. They fry until crispy and are served with a side of the hot broth for dipping.

Ingredients You Need

• 3 lbs chuck roast, cut into chunks
• 5 dried Guajillo chiles and 3 dried Ancho chiles (stemmed and seeded)
• 1 white onion and 5 cloves garlic
• 1 cinnamon stick, 3 bay leaves, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp oregano
• 4 cups beef broth
• Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella), shredded
• Corn tortillas
• Fresh cilantro and diced white onion for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the dried chiles in a dry skillet until fragrant. Cover with boiling water and let soak for 15 minutes until soft.

2. In a blender, combine the softened chiles, 1/2 of the onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, and a splash of the soaking liquid. Blend into a smooth red paste.

3. Season the beef chunks generously with salt. In a large Dutch oven, sear the beef in oil over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.

4. Pour the blended chili paste over the beef. Add the beef broth, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, and the remaining half of the onion. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 3 hours until the meat easily shreds with a fork.

5. Remove the meat and shred it. Reserve the broth (consommé).

6. Heat a large skillet. Dip a corn tortilla into the fat floating at the top of the consommé, then place it in the hot skillet.

7. Add shredded cheese and shredded beef to one half of the tortilla. Fold it over and fry on both sides until crispy and the cheese is melted.

8. Serve the tacos with a hot cup of consommé on the side, garnished with fresh cilantro and diced onions.

Troubleshooting: Why is my Incredible TikTok Birria Tacos not turning out right?

If you are having trouble getting this recipe right, ensure you are measuring ingredients accurately. Baking and cooking are sciences, and the right ratios matter. Also, check your oven temperature; many ovens run hot or cold.