Crock Pot Birria Tacos

Published:

by Sabrina

Crock Pot Birria Tacos is a juicy and flavorful way to enjoy Birria Tacos at home. This recipe brings tender beef cooked in a rich, savory sauce right to your table, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The ease of preparation and the delicious outcome will impress everyone, ensuring it becomes a favorite meal idea for any occasion.

Crock Pot Birria Tacos

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy Preparation: Simply let your crock pot do the work for you, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and slow cooking creates an incredible depth of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tacos with various toppings, such as cilantro and onions, or serve them with sides like rice or beans.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. They taste even better the next day!
  • Crowd-Pleaser: These tacos are sure to impress friends and family alike with their authentic Mexican taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparing Crock Pot Birria Tacos smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Importance of Each Tool

  • Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It evenly cooks the beef over several hours, making it tender and flavorful.
  • Skillet: Perfect for frying tortillas to achieve that crispy texture, enhancing the overall taco experience.
  • Blender: Essential for creating a smooth chili mixture that combines all the ingredients beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Meat Mixture

  • 3 pounds beef chuck roast (cut into large chunks)
  • 3 dried guajillo chilies (stems and seeds removed)
  • 2 dried ancho chilies (stems and seeds removed)
  • 1 onion (quartered)
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

  • Corn tortillas
  • Oil for frying
  • Cilantro and diced onion for garnish

How to Make Crock Pot Birria Tacos

Step 1: Soak the Chilies

Soak dried chilies in hot water for 15 minutes. Once softened, blend them with onion, garlic, and tomatoes until smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot

Place beef in the crockpot. Pour chili mixture over beef. Add broth, vinegar, oregano, cumin, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cook on low for 8–10 hours until beef is tender. This slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Shred the Beef

Once cooked, shred the beef using two forks and mix it with the sauce inside the crockpot.

Step 5: Fry Tortillas

Heat oil in a skillet. Dip tortillas in the top fat layer of the broth from the crock pot, then fry until crispy on both sides.

Step 6: Assemble Tacos

Fill tortillas with beef mixture, fold them over, and fry again until crispy.

Step 7: Serve

Serve with additional broth from the crock pot for dipping along with cilantro and diced onion if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Birria Tacos

Crock Pot Birria Tacos are deliciously versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Traditional Garnishes

  • Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the rich flavors of the tacos.
  • Diced Onion: Provides a crunchy texture and a bit of sharpness for balance.
  • Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos for a zesty kick.

Flavorful Salsas

  • Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime, adding brightness to each bite.
  • Tomatillo Salsa: A tangy option that pairs wonderfully with the savory beef.

Dipping Broth

  • Consommé: Serve the rich broth from the crock pot as a dipping sauce for an authentic touch.

Cheese Options

  • Queso Fresco: Crumble this mild cheese on top for creaminess and flavor enhancement.
  • Shredded Cheese Blend: Melted cheese can add extra richness and a delightful gooeyness.

Add-Ons

  • Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds a smooth texture and healthy fats.
  • Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, pickled jalapeños provide a spicy crunch.
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How to Perfect Crock Pot Birria Tacos

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Birria Tacos, consider these helpful tips that ensure maximum flavor and texture.

  • Use Quality Meat: Choose a well-marbled beef chuck roast for tenderness and rich flavor.
  • Soak Chilies Properly: Soaking dried chilies helps release their flavors; don’t skip this step!
  • Blend Smoothly: Ensure your chili mixture is well-blended to create a uniform sauce that coats the meat beautifully.
  • Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low for 8-10 hours allows the beef to become incredibly tender; resist the urge to rush it!
  • Fry Tortillas Twice: Frying tortillas first in broth fat and then again adds extra crispiness and flavor.
  • Serve Immediately: Enjoying them right after cooking ensures you experience their full flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Birria Tacos

Pair your Crock Pot Birria Tacos with these delightful side dishes to create a complete meal. Each option complements the flavors of the tacos beautifully.

  1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices provides a great base to soak up any extra sauce.
  2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans are not only filling but also add protein and fiber to your meal.
  3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder offers sweet and savory flavors.
  4. Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip brings freshness that pairs perfectly with spicy tacos.
  5. Chips and Salsa: A crunchy appetizer that’s always a hit before diving into the main dish.
  6. Grilled Veggies: Seasoned grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or corn add color and health benefits to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Birria Tacos, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the dried chilies can result in a gritty texture. Always soak them for at least 15 minutes to ensure a smooth sauce.
  • Overcrowding the crockpot: Placing too much meat can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for heat circulation by not exceeding the recommended amount.
  • Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can leave your dish bland. Always sample the broth before serving and tweak flavors as needed.
  • Using low-quality tortillas: Cheap tortillas can tear easily and ruin your tacos. Choose high-quality corn tortillas for better flavor and structure.
  • Not letting the meat rest: Shredding the beef right away can dry it out. Allow it to rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Birria Tacos

  • Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • These tacos can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Birria Tacos

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
  • Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Crock Pot Birria Tacos?

Crock Pot Birria Tacos are savory tacos filled with tender, shredded beef cooked in a flavorful broth, ideal for dipping.

How long do I cook Crock Pot Birria Tacos?

Cook them on low for 8-10 hours for perfectly tender meat.

Can I use other meats besides beef?

Yes! You can also use lamb or goat if you prefer different flavors in your Crock Pot Birria Tacos.

How do I customize my Birria Tacos?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, cheese, or different salsas based on your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Birria Tacos provide a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors and ingredients, making them suitable for everyone’s palate. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a comforting dish that friends and family will love!

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Crock Pot Birria Tacos

Crock Pot Birria Tacos

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Crock Pot Birria Tacos offer a delightful way to indulge in rich, savory flavors right at home. This comforting dish features tender beef simmered in a delectable broth infused with spices, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in juicy tacos that are easy to prepare and sure to impress. Enjoy these tacos with your favorite toppings, or serve them alongside flavorful sides for a complete meal. Perfect for meal prepping, they’re even more delicious the next day!

  • Author: Sabrina
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8–10 hours
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: About 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds beef chuck roast
  • 3 dried guajillo chilies
  • 2 dried ancho chilies
  • 1 onion
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • Corn tortillas

Instructions

  1. Soak the dried guajillo and ancho chilies in hot water for 15 minutes until softened.
  2. Blend soaked chilies with onion, garlic, and diced tomatoes until smooth.
  3. Place beef chuck roast in the crock pot and pour chili mixture over it.
  4. Add beef broth, apple cider vinegar, oregano, cumin, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
  5. Cook on low for 8–10 hours until the meat is tender.
  6. Shred the beef with two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
  7. Fry corn tortillas in oil until crispy; fill them with the beef mixture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 250g)
  • Calories: 365
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 785mg
  • Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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