Birria is a traditional dish of Mexican cuisine, known for its robust flavor and smooth texture. Originally from the state of Jalisco, birria is mainly made with goat meat, although beef, lamb or chicken can also be used.
The preparation process includes slow cooking the meat in a broth seasoned with a mixture of spices such as cumin, pepper, cloves, oregano and dried chili peppers, which gives it its characteristic flavor and aroma. Birria is traditionally served in tacos, quesadillas or consommé, accompanied by onion, cilantro, lemon and hot sauce to taste.
This dish has transcended borders and has become an icon of Mexican cuisine, appreciated for its authenticity and culinary versatility. Its popularity has led to the creation of regional variations and new interpretations, adapting to local tastes and preferences.
Birria is a living example of Mexico’s gastronomic richness, celebrated by both locals and visitors looking to experience authentic Mexican cuisine . Here is a basic recipe for preparing beef birria:
Ingredients:
- 1 kilogram of beef (preferably cuts such as shank, brisket or shoulder)
- 4 chiles guajillo
- 2 ancho chili peppers
- 2 pasilla chili peppers
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 large white onion
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil
Instructions:
First, clean the chillies by removing the seeds and stems. Toast the chillies in a hot pan for a few minutes until they are fragrant. Then, soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes to soften them.
Meanwhile, peel and cut the onion into large pieces. Peel the garlic cloves.
In a large pot, place the beef and cover with water. Add half of the onion and 2 whole garlic cloves. Cook over medium heat for about 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
While the meat is cooking, prepare the sauce. Drain the chiles and place them in a blender along with the other 2 cloves of garlic, the remaining onion, cumin, oregano, pepper, cloves and bay leaves. Add a little of the broth from cooking the meat and blend until you have a smooth, homogeneous sauce.
In a large frying pan, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Pour in the chili sauce and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the meat is cooked and tender, remove it from the broth and cut it into medium-sized pieces. Add the meat to the chili sauce in the pan and mix well. Cook over medium-low heat for approximately 15-20 minutes more, adding broth occasionally to maintain the desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Serve the beef birria hot with warm tortillas, chopped onion, cilantro, lime, and hot sauce to taste.
Enjoy this delicious homemade beef birria!