Homemade Birria -- How to Make Birria from Scratch

dried chiles

🥗Healthier: fresh chiles

💰Cheaper: canned chiles

Fresh chiles can provide a different flavor profile, while canned chiles are often more affordable.

beef

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork

Chicken is leaner, while pork can be less expensive than beef.

Soak dried chiles in hot water until softened, about 15 minutes.

Remove stems and seeds from chiles and place in a blender with garlic, onion, vinegar, lime juice, and spices.

Blend until smooth, adding soaking water as needed to achieve a sauce-like consistency.

Season beef with salt and black pepper, then sear in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.

Add the blended chile sauce to the pot with the beef, stirring to coat the meat.

Pour in enough water to cover the beef, then add bay leaves and herbs.

Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover, cooking for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and shreds easily.

Remove the beef from the pot and shred it with two forks, discarding any excess fat.

Strain the cooking liquid to remove solids, then return the liquid to the pot.

Add the shredded beef back into the pot and simmer for an additional 30 minutes to absorb flavors.

Serve birria with warm corn tortillas, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: