Birria (Slow Cooker)

Mexican birria (slow cooker) is a deliciously rich stew that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. It features tender beef simmered in a blend of vibrant spices and chilies, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe not only boasts incredible flavors but also offers versatility, allowing you to serve it as a hearty stew or transform it into mouthwatering tacos.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and chilies creates a deep, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on cooking time, you can start this dish and let the slow cooker do the work.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy birria in a bowl as a stew or use it to make flavorful tacos for a fun twist.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe serves up to eight people, making it ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.
• Leftover Friendly: Any leftovers can be stored easily and make for delicious lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this birria (slow cooker) recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium pot
• High-powered blender
• Quarter sheet pan
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool is essential for achieving perfectly tender beef without constant monitoring.
• High-powered blender: A powerful blender ensures your sauce is smooth and well combined, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
• Tongs: Useful for mixing ingredients without damaging them, tongs help you handle hot items safely.

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew

• 4 pounds beef chuck roast (cut into 3-inch chunks)
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 bay leaves

For the Chilies and Vegetables

• 10 guajillo chiles
• 5 ancho chilies
• 3 arbol chilies
• 2 Roma tomatoes
• 1 white onion (quartered)
• 6 garlic cloves (unpeeled)

Optional Toppings

• Chopped onion
• Cilantro
• Lime wedges

How to Make Birria (Slow Cooker)

Step 1: Prepare the Chilies

1. Deseed the chilies by slicing off their stems and shaking out the seeds. Rinse them quickly to remove any debris.
2. In a medium pot, add guajillo chiles, ancho chilies, and arbol chilies. Cover with water and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Simmer for about 15 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

1. While the chilies simmer, place the tomatoes, onion, and unpeeled garlic cloves on a quarter sheet pan.
2. Broil these vegetables for about 4 to 6 minutes until they are lightly charred.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Combine the softened chilies with one cup of their cooking water in a high-powered blender.
2. Remove the garlic from its peel and add it along with roasted tomatoes, onion, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. Blend on high for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Birria

1. Place beef chunks into your slow cooker.
2. Pour the birria sauce over the meat and add bay leaves.
3. Gently mix using tongs before covering.
4. Cook on low for 8 to 9 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours until beef is tender enough to shred with a fork.

Step 5: Shred the Meat

1. Discard bay leaves once cooking is complete.
2. Transfer beef to a cutting board and use two forks to shred it apart.

Step 6: Combine Meat with Sauce

1. Return shredded beef back into the slow cooker.
2. Stir well so that meat absorbs all of that delicious liquid (consommé).

Step 7: Serve Your Birria

Serve your birria straight from the slow cooker in bowls topped with chopped onions, fresh cilantro, and lime juice or use it as filling for tacos! Enjoy this flavorful dish at any gathering or cozy dinner night!

How to Serve Birria (Slow Cooker)

Birria is not just a dish; it’s an experience that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a cozy stew or crispy tacos, the options are endless. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your birria meal.

Birria Tacos

• Use soft corn tortillas and fill them with shredded birria. Top with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh touch.

Birria Soup

• Serve the birria in bowls along with its flavorful consommé. Garnish with fresh herbs and lime wedges for added zest.

Rice Bowl

• Create a hearty rice bowl by adding birria over a bed of fluffy rice. Include toppings like avocado slices and salsa to enhance the flavors.

Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips with shredded birria, melted cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Quesadillas

• Fill flour tortillas with birria and cheese, then grill until crispy. Slice into wedges and serve with guacamole or salsa.

Burritos

• Wrap the birria in large flour tortillas along with beans and veggies for a filling burrito option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

How to Perfect Birria (Slow Cooker)

To achieve the ultimate slow cooker birria, follow these simple tips. They will help you create a dish that’s bursting with flavor every time.

• Choose Quality Meat – Select well-marbled beef chuck roast for tenderness and flavor. The fat will render during cooking, enhancing the taste.
• Soak the Chiles – Make sure to soak the chiles properly until softened. This step ensures they blend smoothly into the sauce.
• Don’t Rush Cooking – Allow ample cooking time on low heat for the best results. This helps break down the meat fibers for tenderness.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste the sauce before pouring it over the meat. Adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
• Let it Rest – After cooking, let the birria sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Save Leftovers – Store any leftover birria in its sauce to keep it moist. Reheat gently before serving again.

Best Side Dishes for Birria (Slow Cooker)

Pairing side dishes with your birria can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this rich stew perfectly.

1. Mexican Rice – Flavored with tomato, onions, and spices, this rice makes an excellent base for birria.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans provide a comforting side that balances out the richness of birria.
3. Chips and Salsa – A crunchy snack that adds freshness; serve tortilla chips alongside homemade salsa.
4. Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime is a tasty addition.
5. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip enhances every bite of birria while offering a refreshing contrast of flavors.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition to your meal.
7. Cabbage Slaw – A tangy slaw made from cabbage provides crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the stew.
8. Tortilla Chips – Crispy tortilla chips can be served as a side or used to scoop up some delicious birria straight from your bowl!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Birria (Slow Cooker), it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold mistake: Not deseeding the chilies. Leaving the seeds in can make your sauce too bitter and spicy. Always remove them for a smoother taste.
• Bold mistake: Skipping the roasting step. Roasting the tomatoes, onion, and garlic enhances their flavors significantly. Don’t skip this crucial step!
• Bold mistake: Overcrowding the slow cooker. If you add too much meat at once, it may not cook evenly. Stick to the recommended amount of beef for best results.
• Bold mistake: Not letting it rest after cooking. Allowing the Birria to sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together. Be patient before serving!
• Bold mistake: Forgetting to shred the meat correctly. Use two forks to shred thoroughly; this maximizes flavor absorption from the sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Birria (Slow Cooker)

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Birria (Slow Cooker)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a lid or plastic wrap, heat in intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Birria (Slow Cooker):

What is Birria (Slow Cooker)?

Birria is a traditional Mexican stew made with beef, spices, and chilies, cooked slowly to achieve tender and flavorful meat.

Can I use other meats for Birria?

Yes! Although traditional recipes often use beef, you can substitute with lamb or chicken for different flavor profiles.

How do I serve Birria?

You can serve Birria as a stew with consommé or use it as filling for tacos topped with onions and cilantro.

How long does it take to cook Birria (Slow Cooker)?

Cooking time varies; on low setting, it takes about 8-9 hours, while high setting takes around 4-5 hours.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors often improve if made a day ahead. Just store it properly in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Birria (Slow Cooker) recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With options like serving it as a hearty stew or stuffing tacos, you can customize it based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Birria (Slow Cooker)

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Experience the rich, comforting flavors of Birria (Slow Cooker), a traditional Mexican stew that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. This recipe features tender beef slow-cooked with a blend of aromatic spices and chilies, creating a deeply flavorful broth. Whether served as a hearty stew or transformed into mouthwatering tacos, this birria is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Elevate your dining experience with this easy and versatile recipe that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 pounds beef chuck roast
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 bay leaves
• 10 guajillo chiles
• 5 ancho chilies
• 3 arbol chilies
• 2 Roma tomatoes
• 1 white onion
• 6 garlic cloves

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Instructions

1. Prepare the chilies by deseeding and rinsing them. Simmer guajillo, ancho, and arbol chilies in water for 15 minutes until softened.
2. Roast tomatoes, onion, and unpeeled garlic in the oven until lightly charred.
3. Blend softened chilies with their cooking water, roasted vegetables, broth, vinegar, and spices until smooth.
4. Place beef chunks in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them; add bay leaves.
5. Cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender. Shred the meat and return it to the sauce before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 110mg