Looking to recreate the bold, deep flavors of Mexico right in your own kitchen? This Authentic Jalisco-Style Birria Recipe is your gateway to a truly traditional culinary experience. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or craving something hearty and slow-cooked, this dish delivers everything you love about Mexican comfort food. Want more bold flavors? See our Mexican recipe collection for more spicy classics!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Authentic Jalisco-Style Birria Recipe
- Slow-cooked for deep, rich flavor
- Made with traditional chilies and spices
- Perfect for tacos, quesabirria, or as a stew
- Authentic ingredients, simple techniques
- Freezer-friendly and great for leftovers
- Crowd-pleaser with comforting aroma
AUTHENTIC JALISCO-STYLE BIRRIA RECIPE INGREDIENTS
Meat
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast or goat (cut into large chunks)
- 1 lb beef short ribs (optional for richness)
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
For the Birria Marinade
- 5 dried guajillo chilies
- 3 dried ancho chilies
- 2 dried pasilla chilies
- 5 garlic cloves
- 1 medium white onion (quartered)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp Mexican oregano
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground clove
- 2 bay leaves
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 cups water
Birria Stew Add-Ins
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 additional bay leaves
- 3 more cups water or beef stock
- ½ tsp allspice (optional)
Garnishes and Serving
- Finely chopped white onion
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Warm corn tortillas
PREPARATION – AUTHENTIC JALISCO-STYLE BIRRIA RECIPE
Step 1: Prepare the Chilies
- Remove stems and seeds from all dried chilies.
- Toast them lightly on a dry skillet (30 seconds per side) until fragrant.
- Soak in hot water for 20 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Blend the Marinade
- Add soaked chilies, onion, garlic, vinegar, and spices to a blender.
- Pour in 3 cups of water and blend until smooth.
- Strain to remove any remaining skins for a smooth sauce.
Step 3: Marinate the Meat
- Place meat in a large bowl or container.
- Pour the chili marinade over meat, coat well.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
Step 4: Slow Cook the Birria
- Transfer marinated meat and sauce to a large Dutch oven or slow cooker.
- Add cinnamon stick, bay leaves, and remaining water or stock.
- Simmer on low for 4–5 hours (or 8 hours in a slow cooker) until meat is tender.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
- Remove bay leaves and cinnamon stick.
- Shred meat using two forks.
- Serve in bowls with broth or in tacos with garnishes.
STORAGE & REHEATING INSTRUCTIONS
- Storage: Store cooled birria and consommé in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Store meat and broth separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of water if the consommé thickens.
BIRRIA VARIATIONS AND COOKING TIPS
- Use goat meat for a more traditional version.
- Replace water with beef bone broth for richer flavor.
- For quesabirria tacos, dip tortillas in the consommé, pan-fry with cheese, then fill with birria.
- Skip clove or allspice if you prefer a milder spice profile.
- Ever tried birria pizza? Yes, it’s a thing—and it’s amazing.
FAQ – AUTHENTIC JALISCO-STYLE BIRRIA RECIPE
What is Jalisco style birria?
Jalisco-style birria originates from the Mexican state of Jalisco. Traditionally made with goat, it’s marinated in dried chilies and spices, then slow-cooked until tender. It’s served as a stew or taco filling, always with a rich consommé on the side.
What is the birria sauce made of?
The sauce—or consommé—is crafted from rehydrated chilies (guajillo, ancho, pasilla), garlic, onion, vinegar, and spices like cumin and cinnamon. It’s blended smooth and used to marinate and stew the meat, giving it deep, bold flavor.
What is traditional birria made of?
Traditional birria is made with goat meat, though beef is commonly used today. The meat is marinated with a red chile sauce, slow-cooked, and served in its own spiced broth.
What are the two types of birria?
Birria can be served en caldo (as a stew with consommé) or in tacos, especially the popular quesabirria tacos, which are crispy, cheesy, and dipped in the rich broth.
RECIPES YOU MAY LIKE
- Beef Barbacoa Tacos – Smoky, slow-cooked and juicy.
- Homemade Salsa Roja – A perfect birria companion.
- Spicy Chicken Tinga – Quick and flavorful with a kick.
CONCLUSION
This Authentic Jalisco-Style Birria Recipe brings the taste of Mexico’s most cherished traditions into your home. Whether you’re cooking for a party or craving soulful comfort food, birria is the perfect dish to impress. Looking for more dinner inspiration? Browse our dinner recipes.