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Quesabirria Tacos

The Ultimate Guide to Quesabirria Tacos

Chef Josef
These Mexican Quesabirria Tacos feature tender birria beef, melty cheese, and crispy tacos for an irresistible combination of flavors. Perfect for a homemade Mexican feast!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs bone-in beef short ribs or chuck roast
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 large tomato, chopped
  • 3 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
  • 1 dried arbol chile, stem and seeds removed
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cloves
  • 4 cups beef broth (or water)
  • Tacos:12 corn tortillas Fresh cilantro and lime wedges, for serving
  • 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese (or Monterey Jack)
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Birria:
    Season and Sear: Season beef with salt and pepper. In a large pot, heat oil and sear the beef on both sides until browned.
    Add Aromatics: Add onions, garlic, and tomato; cook until softened.
    Make Sauce: In a blender, blend dried chiles, tomato, garlic, and a bit of broth to create a thick sauce.
    Slow Cook: Return sauce and remaining broth to the pot with the meat. Add bay leaf, cumin, and cloves. Cover and simmer on low for 4-5 hours (or 8 hours in a slow cooker) until beef is fork-tender.
    Assemble and Fry Tacos: Shred Meat: Remove beef, shred it into small pieces, and strain the broth to use as consome for dipping.
    Dip Tortillas: Lightly dip each tortilla in the birria fat, then place in a hot skillet.
    Add Meat and Cheese: Add shredded meat and cheese to each tortilla, fold, and cook until the tortilla is crispy and cheese is melted.
    Serve: Serve hot with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and consome on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Blend of Chiles: Use a variety of chiles for a rich, smoky flavor.
  • Melty Cheese: Oaxaca cheese is traditional, but Monterey Jack also works well.
  • Serve Fresh: Enjoy tacos immediately for the crispiest texture.
Keyword Birria Tacos, Mexican Street Food, Quesabirria Tacos