Quesabirria Tacos

Step-by-step instructions

Here’s how to create those mouthwatering Quesabirria Tacos, step by step:

Prep the peppers: Start by removing the stems and seeds from the dried peppers. Boil them in water for about 10 minutes until soft.
Blend: In a blender, combine the softened peppers with chipotles, vinegar, garlic, onion, oregano, cumin, paprika, and 1 cup of broth. Puree everything until it’s smooth and well combined.
Slow-cook beef: Place the beef in a slow cooker or a large pot. Season it with salt and pepper. Pour the blended sauce over the beef and add the remaining broth along with the bay leaves.
Cook: Allow it to simmer for 3 hours on the stovetop or 6-7 hours on LOW in the Crockpot. You want the beef to be tender enough to shred easily.
Shred: Once cooked, remove the beef from the pot. Shred it using two forks and return it to the consomé to soak up all that delicious flavor.
Make tacos: Dip the corn tortillas in the surface of the consomé to coat with the savory red oil. Heat them in a hot skillet, adding cheese and shredded birria to each. Fold and crisp both sides until golden and melty.
Serve: Present your tacos with a bowl of hot consomé for dipping, and don’t forget the lime, onion, and cilantro as garnish!

Best ways to enjoy it

What to serve it with

When you plate your Quesabirria Tacos, consider pairing them with the classic consomé on the side for that extra punch of flavor. Some additional sides that complement these tacos beautifully include:

Crispy tortilla chips with salsa
A fresh salad made with avocado, tomatoes, and lime dressing
Mexican street corn (elote)
Pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick

Storage and reheating tips

How to store & freeze

If you find yourself with leftovers (although it may be hard to resist!), storing them properly is essential. Place the beef and consomé in an airtight container before refrigerating. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the beef and broth mixture. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before diving back into those tacos.

Helpful cooking tips

Pro chef tips

To elevate your Quesabirria Tacos, here are a few pro tips:

Use quality beef: A well-marbled beef chuck roast will yield the best results by providing rich flavor and tenderness.
Don’t skip the consomé: The dipping sauce is a crucial component, so ensure it’s well-seasoned. You can even add extra spices according to your palate.
Crisp your tortillas: For extra crunch, consider frying the tortillas in a little oil instead of just heating them in the pan.

Creative twists

Recipe variations

Feel free to experiment with Quesabirria Tacos. Here are some creative variations to consider:

Vegetarian option: Substitute the beef with mushrooms or jackfruit for a plant-based alternative.
Different cheese: Try using asadero cheese for a different texture and flavor profile.
Extra toppings: Consider adding avocado, pickled red onions, or sautéed bell peppers for added freshness and flavor.

FAQs

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare Quesabirria Tacos?
The preparation time is around 20 minutes, but the cooking process takes about 3-7 hours, depending on your method (stovetop or slow cooker).
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is traditional, you can venture into pork or goat for authentic variations.
Is the consomé necessary?
Yes, it adds moisture and flavor while eating the tacos. Plus, the dipping experience is truly delightful!