Description
Experience the rich and vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican Birria with this easy-to-follow recipe. This hearty stew features tender lamb or beef simmered in a savory blend of spices and chilies, making it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Serve it as a comforting soup or transform it into mouthwatering tacos—either way, your guests will be impressed. Plus, the marinated meat can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones on the day of serving.
Ingredients
Scale
- 5 ancho peppers
- 5 guajillo peppers
- 2–3 chiles de arbol (optional, for spicier)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large white onion
- 3 large tomatoes
- 5 cloves garlic
- 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
- 4 cups beef stock (separated)
- 3.5 pounds lamb shoulder (or you can use beef shank or chuck roast)
Instructions
- Toast the dried peppers in a large pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until the skins darken.
- Rehydrate the toasted peppers by soaking them in hot water for 20 minutes.
- In the same pan, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onions and tomatoes for about 5 minutes, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Blend the sautéed mixture with rehydrated chilies, seasonings, vinegar, and one cup of beef stock until smooth.
- Cut the meat into chunks, marinate it with the sauce in a bowl for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight).
- Cook the marinated meat with remaining ingredients in a large pot over medium heat for about 3 hours until fork-tender.
- Serve as a stew or shred meat onto tortillas for delicious tacos.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg