Introduction

Quesabirrias are a delicious Mexican dish that beautifully combines the flavors of grilled meat and cheese with the joy of dipping. Originating from the state of Jalisco, these flavorful tacos have gained immense popularity across the globe. With their rich taste and satisfying crunch, quesabirrias are perfect for gatherings, family meals, or simply indulging on a cozy night in.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Beef shank – 2 pounds
Taco seasoning – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Onion – 1 large, chopped
Dried guajillo peppers – 3, seeds removed
Dried ancho peppers – 2, seeds removed
Bay leaves – 2
Cinnamon – 1 stick
Cloves – 4
Black peppercorns – 1 teaspoon
Water – 6 cups
Corn tortillas – 12
Oaxaca cheese – 8 ounces, shredded
Fresh cilantro – for garnish
Lime wedges – for serving
Radishes – for garnish

Prep Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Meat

Begin by seasoning the beef with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices. Sear the meat in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.

Make the Consommé

Once the meat is seared, add chopped onion, garlic, bay leaves, and any additional aromatics. Then, pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Mixture

Reduce the heat and let the broth simmer for several hours until the meat is tender. Check occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.

Shred the Meat

After the meat has cooked thoroughly, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any larger pieces of fat.

Prepare Corn Tortillas

In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Warm the corn tortillas until they become pliable but not crispy.

Fill the Tortillas

Place some of the shredded beef in the center of each tortilla. Optionally, add cheese and other desired toppings before folding the tortillas.

Grill the Tacos

Return the filled tortillas to the pan and grill them on both sides until crispy and golden brown, ensuring the cheese is melted.

Serve with Consommé

Serve the tacos alongside a small bowl of the simmered broth for dipping. Garnish with chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Notes

Meat Choices

You can use different cuts of beef for this recipe, such as chuck or short rib, depending on your preference.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with mushrooms or jackfruit and use vegetable broth.

Spice Level

Adjust the spices according to your heat preference. Adding chipotle peppers can introduce a nice smokiness.

Storage

Leftover tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance the dish with fresh toppings like avocado, radishes, or your favorite salsa to elevate the flavors even further.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinating the meat is essential for infusing flavor and tenderness. Use a mixture of spices and liquids to soak the meat for several hours or overnight.

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Use a slow cooker or a covered pot over low heat to achieve the best results.

Grilling

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the meat. Preheat the grill and cook the marinated meat until it develops a nice char on the outside while remaining tender inside.

Shredding

After cooking, shredding the meat enhances its texture and allows it to absorb more flavors from the broth. Use two forks or your hands for this process.

Creating the Consommé

The consommé is the flavorful broth served alongside the quesabirrias. Simmer the leftover marinade with broth and spices to create a rich dipping sauce.

FAQ

Can I use any type of meat for quesabirrias?

Yes, you can use beef, pork, or even a combination of meats, depending on your preference.

Do I have to marinate the meat overnight?

While marinating overnight yields the best flavor, a few hours of marinating can still enhance the taste significantly.

How can I make quesabirrias spicier?

To increase the heat, add more chili peppers or a spicier variety to the marinade.

What kind of tortillas should I use?

Corn tortillas are traditional for quesabirrias, as they complement the flavors well and hold up better when dipped in the broth.

Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Conclusion

Quesabirrias are a delightful fusion of flavors, combining tender, seasoned meat with melted cheese, all encased in a crispy taco shell. This innovative dish offers a unique twist on traditional Mexican cuisine, perfect for those looking to elevate their taco experience. With each bite, you can savor the rich broth that complements the crunchy exterior, making quesabirrias a must-try for food enthusiasts.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Veggie Quesabirrias

Substitute meat with a medley of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

Spicy Chicken Quesabirrias

Use shredded spicy chicken marinated in chipotle sauce for an added kick that will elevate the flavor profile.

Seafood Quesabirrias

Try making quesabirrias with shrimp or fish, lightly seasoned and grilled, for a refreshing seafood twist.

Cheesy Quesabirrias

Experiment by adding different types of cheese such as Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a gooey texture.

Guacamole Topping

Serve quesabirrias with a fresh guacamole topping for an extra layer of creaminess that complements the crunchy tacos.

Pico de Gallo Salsa

Incorporate a fresh pico de gallo salsa as a side to add a zesty, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the quesabirrias.