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Discover the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with this hearty Slow Cooker Beef Birria recipe. Birria, a beloved dish originating from the state of Jalisco, is renowned for its tender beef, aromatic spices, and deep, satisfying broth. This traditional dish has grown in popularity beyond its regional roots, becoming a favorite in taco shops and homes across Mexico and the United States alike. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—using a slow cooker allows you to enjoy the robust flavors without the need for constant supervision, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Slow Cooker Beef Birria

Indulge in the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with this hearty Slow Cooker Beef Birria recipe. Originating from Jalisco, birria is a comforting stew celebrated for its tender beef and aromatic spices. This simple slow-cooker method transforms tough cuts of meat into melt-in-your-mouth perfection, making it a great choice for family gatherings. Explore its cultural significance and learn the essential ingredients and preparation techniques to impress your loved ones with an authentic taste of Mexico. Enjoy birria in tacos or as a savory stew with warm tortillas for a truly delightful experience.
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Ingredients
  

3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks

3 dried guajillo chilies, stems and seeds removed

2 dried ancho chilies, stems and seeds removed

1 medium onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground oregano

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp salt (or to taste)

2 cups beef broth

1 cup tomato sauce

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 bay leaf

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Chopped onion and lime wedges (for serving)

Corn tortillas (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chilies: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the guajillo and ancho chilies for about 1-2 minutes, turning frequently until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool. Once cooled, blend them in a blender with 1 cup of beef broth until smooth. Set aside.

    Sear the Meat: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step adds rich flavor.

      Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, add the seared beef, the blended chili sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, the remaining beef broth, tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, and bay leaf. Stir to combine everything well.

        Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded.

          Shred the Beef: Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir it into the broth.

            Serve: Ladle the birria into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped onions, and lime wedges. Serve with warm corn tortillas on the side for dipping.

              Enjoy: Savor the rich, deeply flavored birria served with the tortillas, perfect for making tacos or enjoying it as a stew.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 8 hours 20 minutes | 6-8 servings