Birria is one of Mexico’s most beloved dishes—slow-cooked meat simmered in a deeply flavorful chili broth until tender and juicy. Originally from Jalisco, this Mexican birria recipe is perfect for tacos, quesabirria, or a cozy bowl of stew. Don’t worry if it sounds complex—it’s surprisingly simple when broken down step by step.
What Is Birria?
Birria is a traditional Mexican stew made with goat or beef, dried chilies, spices, and aromatics. The meat is slow-cooked until it falls apart, and the broth (called consomé) is packed with smoky, savory flavor.
Today, beef birria is the most popular version, especially in the US, UK, and Canada.
Ingredients for Mexican Birria
Meat
3 lbs beef chuck roast or short ribs (bone-in preferred)
Dried Chilies
4 dried guajillo chilies
2 dried ancho chilies
1–2 dried árbol chilies (optional, for heat)
Aromatics & Spices
1 large onion (quartered)
6 garlic cloves
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp dried oregano (Mexican oregano if possible)
½ tsp ground cloves
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 bay leaves
Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquids
4 cups beef broth
Water (as needed)
Step-by-Step Birria Recipe
1. Prepare the Chilies
Remove stems and seeds from dried chilies
Toast lightly in a dry pan (10–15 seconds per side)
Soak chilies in hot water for 15–20 minutes until soft
2. Make the Birria Sauce
Blend together:
Soaked chilies
Onion
Garlic
Vinegar
Spices
1 cup chili soaking liquid
Blend until smooth. This rich sauce is the heart of a delicious birria recipe.
3. Season and Sear the Meat
Cut beef into large chunks
Season generously with salt and pepper
Sear in a hot pot until browned on all sides
This step adds depth and flavor—don’t skip it.
4. Slow Cook the Birria
Add to the pot:
Blended chili sauce
Beef broth
Bay leaves
Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook:
Stovetop: 3–4 hours (low heat)
Oven: 325°F / 165°C for 3 hours
Slow cooker: 8 hours on low
The meat should shred easily with a fork.
How to Serve Birria
Classic Birria Stew
Serve hot with:
Chopped onion
Fresh cilantro
Lime wedges
Warm corn tortillas
Birria Tacos (Quesabirria)
Shred cooked beef
Dip tortillas in birria fat (from the top of the broth)
Fill with meat and Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
Fry until crispy
Serve with consomé for dipping
This is the version that made birria famous worldwide!
Tips for the Best Birria
Bone-in beef adds richer flavor
Let birria rest overnight—flavor improves the next day
Skim excess fat only if needed (some is good!)
Adjust chili amounts to control spice level
These small tricks make a good birria truly unforgettable.
Can You Make Birria Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Birria tastes even better the next day.
Refrigerate up to 4 days
Freeze up to 3 months
Perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Birria Recipe
Deep, authentic Mexican flavors
Versatile (stew, tacos, ramen)
Comfort food at its best
Crowd-pleasing and customizable
Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this delicious birria recipe Mexican style never disappoints.