Quesabirria Tacos

 

Quesabirria tacos are a delicious fusion of traditional birria (a slow-cooked, flavorful Mexican stew) and crispy, cheesy tacos. They originate from Jalisco, Mexico, but became especially popular in Tijuana and across the U.S.

What Are Quesabirria Tacos?

Quesabirria tacos consist of:

• Birria: A slow-cooked beef (or goat/lamb) stew, seasoned with chilies, garlic, cumin, and other spices.
• Cheese: Often Oaxaca or mozzarella, melted inside the taco.
• Corn tortillas: Dipped in birria consommé (broth) before frying for a crispy, flavorful exterior.
• Consommé: The rich broth from the birria, used for dipping.

How to Make Quesabirria Tacos

Ingredients:

• For the Birria:

  • 2 lbs beef chuck or short ribs
  • 2 dried guajillo chilies, deseeded
  • 2 dried ancho chilies, deseeded
  • 2 dried pasilla chilies, deseeded
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • Salt & pepper to taste

• For the Tacos:

  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • 1½ cups shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
  • Chopped cilantro and diced onion for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Birria:

   • Toast the dried chilies in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes.
   • Blend them with garlic, onion, vinegar, and some broth until smooth.
   • In a pot, sear the beef, then add the chili paste, spices, and remaining broth.
   • Simmer for 3+ hours until tender.

2. Shred the Meat & Prepare the Consommé:

   • Remove the beef, shred it, and skim excess fat from the broth.
   • Reserve some broth for dipping.

3. Assemble the Tacos:

   • Heat a pan, dip tortillas in the broth, and place them on the pan.
   • Add cheese and shredded birria meat. Fold and cook until crispy.

4. Serve:

   • Garnish with cilantro and onions.
   • Serve with the consommé for dipping and lime wedges on the side.

These tacos are rich, crispy, cheesy, and perfect for dipping in the flavorful broth. Would you try making them at home?