Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this delightful Mexican Birria Recipe. This hearty stew, traditionally made with tender lamb or beef, is simmered in a rich chili sauce, resulting in a savory dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Whether you serve it as a comforting soup or fill warm tortillas for delicious tacos, this birria is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. With its complex spices and tender meat, every bite is a celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine. Prepare to enjoy a meal that not only warms the heart but also brings everyone together at the table.
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 you can use beef shank or chuck roast)
Instructions
- Toast the dried peppers in a large pan over medium heat for 1–2 minutes on each side until the skins darken.
- Remove from heat and cover toasted peppers with hot water in a bowl; let steep for about 20 minutes.
- In the same pan, heat olive oil and cook chopped onion and tomatoes for about 5 minutes until softened. Add chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- In a food processor, blend cooked vegetables with rehydrated chilies, their soaking liquid, spices, and vinegar until smooth.
- Cut lamb (or beef) into chunks, marinate with birria sauce for at least 2 hours (overnight preferred).
- Combine marinated meat with chopped roasted tomatoes and remaining beef stock in a large pot; cover and cook on medium heat for about 3 hours until fork-tender.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg