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–+ servings
Birria

Mouthwatering Birria: Your New Favorite Slow Cooker Gem

This birria recipe delivers fork-tender beef stew, with rich spices and versatile serving options, making it a must-try dish.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 4 pieces Guajillo chiles Substitute with ancho chiles for a sweeter taste.
  • 2 pieces Ancho chiles Additional guajillo chiles can be used if unavailable.
  • 2 pieces Arbol chiles Reduce quantity or omit for less spice.
  • 4 medium Tomatoes Canned tomatoes are an alternative.
  • 1 large Onion Yellow or white onions work best.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Use fresh for best flavor.
For the Beef
  • 3 pounds Beef (chuck roast or brisket) Look for well-marbled meat.
  • 4 cups Beef broth Opt for low-sodium versions if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a great choice.
For the Seasonings
  • 1 tablespoon Spices (salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, cloves, cinnamon, ginger) Adjust based on preference.
  • 2 pieces Bay leaves Remove before serving.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Blender
  • Medium saucepan
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Chiles: Begin by removing the stems and seeds from the guajillo, ancho, and arbol chiles. Rinse them briefly under cold water.
  2. Soften the Chiles: Simmer the prepared chiles in enough water to cover them for about 15 minutes until plump and slightly tender.
  3. Broil the Vegetables: Broil the tomatoes, onion, and unpeeled garlic for 4-6 minutes until lightly charred.
  4. Blend the Ingredients: Transfer chiles and vegetables to a blender. Add beef broth, vinegar, and spices. Blend until smooth but textured.
  5. Prepare the Beef: Place chuck roast or brisket in the slow cooker. Pour the blended sauce over beef and add bay leaves.
  6. Slow Cook the Birria: Cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours until beef is fork-tender.
  7. Shred the Beef: Remove beef, shred using forks, and return to the sauce.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle birria into bowls or fill tortillas. Garnish with chopped onions, cilantro, and lime juice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 36gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Marinate beef overnight for enhanced flavors. Avoid over-blending the sauce for texture. Adjust liquid levels as beef releases moisture.

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