Description
Indulge in the rich and flavorful experience of authentic Mexican Birria, a traditional dish from Jalisco that brings warmth to any gathering. This hearty stew features tender lamb or beef simmered in a vibrant chili sauce, creating a dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or festive celebrations. Whether enjoyed as a comforting soup or transformed into delicious tacos, this recipe guarantees a culinary adventure that will impress your family and friends. With easy-to-follow instructions and the right blend of spices, you can savor the depth of flavor that makes birria a beloved classic.
Ingredients
Scale
- 5 ancho peppers
- 5 guajillo peppers
- 2–3 chiles de arbol (optional, for spicier)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large white onion (chopped)
- 3 large tomatoes (chopped)
- 5 cloves garlic (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon dried Mexican oregano
- 1 tablespoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 large roasted tomatoes (chopped)
- 4 cups beef stock (separated)
- 3.5 pounds lamb shoulder (or beef shank or chuck roast)
Instructions
- Toast the dried peppers in a large pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until darkened.
- Rehydrate toasted peppers in hot water for 20 minutes.
- Sauté chopped onion and tomatoes in olive oil for about 5 minutes until softened, then add garlic for another minute.
- Blend sautéed vegetables with rehydrated chilies, spices, vinegar, and 1 cup beef stock until smooth.
- Marinate chunks of meat with the sauce for at least 2 hours (overnight recommended).
- Cook marinated meat with roasted tomatoes and remaining broth in a large pot over medium heat for about 3 hours until fork-tender.
- Serve as soup or in tacos with reserved broth.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg