The Best Ever Mexican Birria

Name: The Best Ever Mexican Birria
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks; 1 lb lamb shank, cut into chunks; 4 dried guajillo chilies, stemmed and seeded; 2 dried ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded; 4 cloves garlic; 1 onion, quartered; 2 bay leaves; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 tablespoon oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups beef broth; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Onions, diced; Lime wedges; Tortillas

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the rich, savory goodness of this traditional Mexican Birria recipe. Slow-cooked to tender perfection, this dish features succulent meat drenched in a flavorful blend of spices and aromatics, making it a perfect choice for celebratory gatherings or comforting family dinners. Serve it with warm tortillas for the ultimate dip into the delicious broth, and enjoy a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine right at home.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-28T12:02:16.924Z

This Mexican Birria is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Authentic flavor that transports you to Mexico.
Perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Versatile—enjoy it as a taco, soup, or with rice.

      

Discovering Birria

Birria is a traditional Mexican dish that originates from the state of Jalisco, celebrated for its rich flavors and unique cooking techniques. Originally made with goat meat, variants of this beloved dish can also be prepared using beef, lamb, or even chicken. The beauty of birria lies in its slow-cooked method, where the meat absorbs the robust flavors of spices and chiles, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Enjoying birria often goes beyond just the taste. It’s a dish deeply rooted in Mexican culture, typically served during special occasions and festive gatherings. Sharing birria with family and friends creates a communal atmosphere, allowing everyone to savor the delicious flavors while engaging in heartfelt conversations and laughter.

Cooking Techniques

The secret to an exceptional birria lies in the meticulous preparation of the chiles. Toasting them enhances their natural flavors, bringing out rich, smoky notes that harmonize beautifully with the savory meat. Soaking the chiles before blending is also crucial, as it softens them and allows for a smoother paste that effortlessly coats the meat.

Slow cooking is another vital technique that sets birria apart. By simmering the ingredients over low heat for several hours, every morsel of meat becomes infused with the spicy, aromatic broth. This method not only tenderizes the meat but also builds layers of flavor, making each bite a compelling taste experience.

Ingredients

For the Birria

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
1 lb lamb shank, cut into chunks
4 dried guajillo chilies, stemmed and seeded
2 dried ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded
4 cloves garlic
1 onion, quartered
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups beef broth

For Serving

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Onions, diced
Lime wedges
Tortillas

Make sure to gather all ingredients before you start cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Chilies

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the guajillo and ancho chilies until fragrant. Soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes, then blend with garlic, onion, and spices to form a paste.

Brown the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef and lamb chunks on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Combine Ingredients

Add the blended chili paste back to the pot with the meat. Pour in the beef broth and add bay leaves, cumin, and oregano. Stir well.

Slow Cook

Cover and simmer on low heat for about 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Serve

Serve the birria hot with chopped onions, cilantro, lime, and warm tortillas for dipping into the rich broth.

Enjoy your delicious homemade birria!

Pairing Suggestions

Birria shines brightest when paired with fresh tortillas, allowing you to scoop up the flavorful broth with each bite. Consider serving it with a side of fresh lime wedges and diced onions for that perfect burst of acidity and crunch. You can also offer a side of rice, which not only rounds out the meal but also soaks up the delicious juices of the birria.

For an additional layer of flavor, create a simple salsa using tomatillos or tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs. This will complement the rich, hearty qualities of the birria, elevating your dining experience with vibrant, zesty notes.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover birria can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will deepen and improve as they sit, making your leftovers an irresistible treat. When storing, it’s best to separate the meat from the broth to prevent the meat from becoming overly saturated.

Reheating birria can be done on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to create a saucy consistency, ensuring it warms up evenly without drying out. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave, though be sure to cover it to retain moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make birria with chicken?

Yes, you can substitute beef or lamb with chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.

→ What can I serve with birria?

Birria is traditionally served with tortillas, but you can also enjoy it with rice or in tacos.