Birria Tacos with Cheese (Quesabirria)

🌸 Introduction

Birria tacos are a Mexican delicacy that brings together richly spiced, slow-cooked beef and crispy tortillas stuffed with melted cheese. Originating from the state of Jalisco, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. The tender shredded meat, infused with chilies and aromatic spices, is tucked into a tortilla, pan-fried until golden, and often served with a side of consommé (broth) for dipping. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and satisfying — a recipe that brings families and friends together.

🥩 Ingredients

For the Birria Meat & Consommé:

3 lbs beef chuck roast (or short ribs/goat/lamb for authenticity)
2 dried guajillo chilies (seeded)
2 dried ancho chilies (seeded)
2 dried pasilla chilies (optional, for depth)
3 Roma tomatoes, roasted
1 medium onion, quartered
5 cloves garlic
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 cinnamon stick
3 bay leaves
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano (Mexican preferred)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp black pepper
6 cups beef broth
Salt, to taste

For the Tacos:

Corn tortillas (about 12)
2 cups Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Chopped cilantro and diced onions (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)

📝 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Birria

Toast the dried chilies in a skillet until fragrant, then soak them in hot water for 15 minutes.
Blend chilies with roasted tomatoes, onion, garlic, vinegar, cumin, oregano, paprika, and some soaking liquid until smooth.
In a large pot, sear the beef on all sides until browned.
Add the chili sauce, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and beef broth.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 3–4 hours (or use an Instant Pot/slow cooker) until meat is fork-tender.
Remove beef, shred with forks, and set aside. Keep broth (consommé) warm for dipping.

Step 2: Assemble the Tacos

Heat a skillet and lightly grease with oil.
Dip tortillas into the consommé (to coat with flavor) and place in skillet.
Sprinkle cheese on one side, add shredded birria meat, and fold tortilla.
Cook until tortillas are crispy and cheese is melted.

Step 3: Serve

Serve tacos hot with chopped onions, cilantro, lime wedges, and a small bowl of consommé for dipping.

🔨 Methods

Slow-Braising Method: Ensures the meat becomes tender and absorbs spices.
Blending Method: Creates a smooth chili sauce base for rich flavor.
Pan-Frying Method: Gives tortillas their crispy golden finish.
Dipping Method: Serving consommé enhances taste and tradition.

📜 History

Birria originated in Jalisco, Mexico, traditionally made with goat meat and served during festivals. Over time, variations with beef, lamb, or pork became popular. The now-famous quesabirria (birria tacos with cheese) gained popularity in Tijuana before spreading across the U.S. and beyond through food trucks and social media. Today, it’s a beloved dish celebrated for its deep cultural roots and bold flavors.

🌱 Benefits

Protein-rich: Beef provides essential nutrients and energy.
Comforting & hearty: Perfect for cold days or festive gatherings.
Customizable: Can be made with beef, lamb, goat, or even chicken.
Family-style dish: Meant to be shared, dipped, and enjoyed together.

🏗 Formation

The dish forms in layers of experience:

Slow-cooked birria meat → tender and flavorful.
Crispy tortilla shell → dipped in consommé for golden crispiness.
Melted cheese → gooey texture that balances spice.
Fresh toppings & dipping → brightens and completes the flavor.

❤️ Lovers of Birria Tacos

Street food fans: It’s a Mexican street food classic.
Cheese lovers: Gooey, melty cheese elevates the experience.
Meat enthusiasts: Perfect for anyone who loves hearty, slow-braised beef.
Gatherings & fiestas: A crowd-pleaser for parties and family meals.

🏁 Conclusion

Birria tacos with cheese are bold, rich, and unforgettable. They combine centuries-old tradition with modern indulgence, making them one of the most celebrated dishes in the world today. With crispy tortillas, tender meat, melty cheese, and savory consommé, each bite is an explosion of flavor.

❤️ Final Lovers & Conclusion

This dish is for lovers of Mexican cuisine, lovers of bold flavors, and lovers of shared meals. Birria tacos aren’t just food — they’re a celebration of culture, family, and togetherness.

🌮✨ Truly, a recipe that delights every soul who takes a bite.