Birria Tacos: What's The Cheesy Secret?

Birria tacos are a traditional Mexican street food that originated in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. They are made by dipping corn tortillas in birria grease and frying them in a skillet. The tortillas are then stuffed with shredded birria meat and cheese, folded in half, and cooked until the cheese melts. The tacos are typically served with a bowl of warm birria broth for dipping and garnished with toppings such as diced onion, radishes, cilantro, and Mexican crema. While there are many types of cheese that can be used, the most traditional option is Oaxaca cheese.

What is Birria?

Birria is a Mexican dish that originated in the state of Jalisco. It is a rich, flavorful stew that is typically made with either goat or lamb, though beef is also a common alternative. The meat is marinated in an adobo made from vinegar, dried chiles, garlic, and herbs and spices, then cooked in a broth. Birria is often served with corn tortillas, onions, cilantro, and lime, and can be served as a soup or in tacos.

Birria tacos, or quesabirria, are made by dipping corn tortillas in the birria broth and pan-frying them with cheese, meat, cilantro, and onions. The tacos are then served with a small bowl of the broth on the side for dipping.

What kind of cheese is used in Birria Tacos?

Birria tacos are a Mexican street food that has gained immense popularity. They are made by stuffing corn tortillas with slow-cooked meat, typically goat, lamb or beef, and cheese, and then frying them. The type of cheese used in birria tacos is an important component as it adds to the overall taste and texture of the dish.

The most traditional and preferred cheese used in birria tacos is Oaxaca cheese, also known as quesillo. Oaxaca cheese is a type of string cheese that is similar to mozzarella in texture and can easily be substituted with it. Oaxaca cheese is a semi-soft cheese with a slightly acidic taste and a creamy mouthfeel. It is a Mexican cheese that can be found in the Latin American cheese section of most grocery stores or at a Latin market.

Other types of cheese that can be used in birria tacos include Chihuahua, asadero, or quesadilla cheese. These are also Mexican melting cheeses that can be purchased at Latin grocery stores. If these cheeses are not available, then any shredded cheese like Monterrey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend can be used.

How to make Birria Tacos?

How to Make Birria Tacos

Ingredients

• Birria (stewed meat)
• Corn tortillas
• Cheese (Oaxaca, Chihuahua, asadero, quesadilla, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend)
• Toppings (cilantro, red or white onions, pickled red onions, lime wedges, sliced avocado, sliced jalapeños)
• Oil

Method

• Prepare the birria (stewed meat) in advance. Birria is a rich stew that's traditionally made with goat or lamb, but beef is more commonly used these days. You can also use chicken or pork.
• Shred the meat and strain the broth (also known as consomé or consomme).
• Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and add some oil.
• Dip a tortilla in the broth, making sure to coat both sides.
• Place the tortilla in the hot pan and add your desired toppings to one side: shredded meat, cheese, and any other toppings of your choice.
• Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden and crispy.
• Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
• Serve the tacos with small bowls of the broth on the side for dipping.

What to serve with Birria Tacos?

Birria tacos are a treat on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Here are some ideas for side dishes that will complement the juicy, cheesy, and spicy flavours of birria tacos:

Traditional Sides

• Rice with cilantro, lime juice, and garlic is a simple yet impressive side that pairs well with the tacos.
• Refried beans are a classic, creamy, and savoury option that complements the spice of birria tacos and adds heft to the meal.
• Guacamole is a must-try, with its creamy and tangy combination of buttery avocados, fresh lime, and spice.
• Pico de Gallo, a fresh and crunchy salsa made with tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and lime juice, adds a zesty kick to the rich birria tacos.

Corn Sides

• Elote, or Mexican grilled corn, is a standout side. It combines the smoky char from the grill with the creaminess of mayo, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad has the same delicious flavours as elote but in salad form, making it a great option if you want something a little lighter.
• Corn on the cob with butter and a sprinkle of chili powder or Tajín and lime juice is a simple and tasty option.

Other Sides

• Queso fresco is a fresh, crumbly, and slightly salty cheese that pairs perfectly with birria tacos.
• Lime wedges add a zesty punch and cut through the richness of the tacos.
• Pickled red onions bring a tangy crunch and a pop of colour to the plate, balancing out the rich flavours of the tacos.
• Jalapeño slices add a fiery kick and a crisp texture to the meal.
• Avocado salad is a creamy and tangy side dish with a touch of lime and cilantro. It's a light and fresh option to balance the richness of the tacos.

Unconventional Sides

If you're looking for something outside of the typical Mexican sides, here are some ideas:

• A slaw or winter salad with chillis, lime juice, and a hit of acid can provide a fresh contrast to the fatty meat of the tacos.
• Churros for a sweet treat.
• Guacamole with pomegranates is a unique and tasty combination.
• Kimchi or pickled red onions for an Asian fusion twist.
• Ramen or noodle soup made with the birria consomé for a fusion dish.
• Popcorn topped with different flavours like cotija cheese, lime, taco seasoning, or chili powder as an appetizer.
• Tequila and margaritas to drink.

So, there you have it! Whether you stick to the traditional sides or get creative with unconventional options, there are plenty of delicious ways to round out your birria taco meal.

How to store Birria Tacos?

Birria tacos are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the ingredients separately to make assembly easy throughout the week.

Leftover birria meat can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. The taco ingredients can be prepped and stored in separate containers in the fridge, and the tortillas can be frozen.

When ready to eat, let the meat come to room temperature and reheat in a pan over medium-low heat until warmed through. You can also reheat birria in the microwave until warmed through.

To freeze birria for later, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For corn tortillas, you can make them ahead of time and freeze them. When ready to eat, heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the tortillas on each side until pliable.

For the best-tasting birria tacos, it is recommended to use fresh ingredients and assemble the tacos just before serving. This will ensure the tacos are crispy and the ingredients are warm and melted together.

Frequently asked questions