Name: Crockpot Mexican Beef Birria
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 lbs beef chuck roast or beef shank, cut into chunks; 4 dried guajillo chilies, seeded and deveined; 2 dried ancho chilies, seeded and deveined; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 2 bay leaves; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetables or tortillas for serving

Description

Crockpot Mexican Beef Birria is a traditional and flavorful slow cooker dish featuring tender beef simmered in rich Mexican spices. Perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or as a hearty main course, this authentic recipe delivers deep, savory flavors with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for easy weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

3 lbs beef chuck roast or beef shank, cut into chunks
4 dried guajillo chilies, seeded and deveined
2 dried ancho chilies, seeded and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large onion, chopped
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 bay leaves
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables or tortillas for serving

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Instructions

Start by soaking the dried guajillo and ancho chilies in hot water for about 15 minutes until softened. Blend them with garlic, cumin, oregano, vinegar, salt, and pepper to form a smooth chili paste.
In a skillet, sear the beef chunks over medium-high heat until browned on all sides to develop flavor.
Place the seared beef into the crockpot. Pour the chili paste over the beef, then add chopped onions, bay leaves, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
Shred the cooked beef using two forks. Serve in warm tortillas, over rice, or with your favorite Mexican sides. Garnish with cilantro, chopped onions, and lime wedges if desired.

Notes

Soaking chilies in hot water softens them, making blending easier.
Searing beef beforehand enhances flavor and texture.
Adjust salt and spice levels to taste.
This dish freezes well for up to 3 months.
For authentic flavor, serve with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320 Kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg