Juicy, slow-cooked beef birria tacos filled with tender meat and fried to crispy perfection. Served with a flavorful chili-based consommé for dipping.
3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
4 dried guajillo chilies
2 dried ancho chilies
1 dried pasilla chili
1 medium onion, quartered
5 garlic cloves
1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes
1 tbsp white vinegar
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano (preferably Mexican)
½ tsp ground cloves
1 cinnamon stick
2 bay leaves
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp oil for searing
2 cups beef broth or water
15–20 corn tortillas
Optional: 2 cups shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
Toppings: diced onion, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Toast dried chilies in a dry pan until fragrant. Remove seeds and stems, then soak in hot water for 15–20 minutes.
In a Dutch oven, heat oil and sear beef on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Blend soaked chilies with tomatoes, onion, garlic, vinegar, and spices until smooth.
Return beef to pot, pour sauce over, and add bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and broth. Simmer covered for 3 hours, until tender.
Shred beef. Skim fat from broth and reserve for frying.
Dip tortillas in fat layer of consommé, fill with beef (and cheese if using), and fry until golden and crispy.
Serve hot with a bowl of consommé for dipping. Top with onion, cilantro, and lime.