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Instructions
Step 1: Make the Birria
- Toast the Dried Chiles: Start by toasting the dried chiles in a hot, dry skillet for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Rehydrate the Chiles: Place the toasted chiles in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for about 15 minutes until softened.
- Prepare the Sauce: Once the chiles are softened, transfer them to a blender along with the garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, cloves, cinnamon stick, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Add 1 cup of beef broth and blend until smooth, creating a thick, flavorful sauce.
- Cook the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step will add depth of flavor to the meat.
- Simmer the Meat: Once the meat is browned, pour the blended sauce over the beef. Add the remaining beef broth and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 3-4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreddable.
- Shred the Meat: Once the meat is done, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat. Keep the birria broth on the side for dipping the tacos.
Step 2: Prepare the Quesatacos
- Heat the Tortillas: In a hot skillet over medium heat, warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side. This step makes the tortillas more pliable and easier to work with.
- Melt the Cheese: Once the tortillas are heated, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Oaxaca cheese or mozzarella on one side of each tortilla. Let the cheese melt slightly.
- Add the Birria: On top of the melted cheese, add a generous spoonful of the shredded birria meat. You can add a bit of the birria broth to the meat for extra flavor and juiciness if desired.
- Crisp the Tacos: Fold the tortillas in half, pressing them gently. Cook the quesatacos in the same skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until the tortillas are crispy, golden brown, and the cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the quesatacos from the skillet and garnish with diced onions, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime. Serve with a side of salsa for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Birria Broth for Dipping: Don’t forget to serve the flavorful birria broth (called “consomé”) on the side. It’s perfect for dipping your quesatacos and adds even more flavor to each bite.
- Pair with Mexican Street Corn: Serve your quesatacos with a side of Elote (Mexican street corn) for the ultimate taco experience. The creamy, spicy corn complements the richness of the tacos.
- Tropical Drinks: Pair these tacos with a refreshing tropical drink like a cold Horchata or Agua Fresca for a full Mexican feast.
Why This Recipe Works
- Tender, Flavorful Meat: The slow-cooked birria is infused with deep, complex flavors from the chiles and spices, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tender beef that pairs perfectly with the crispy tortillas and gooey cheese.
- Melted Cheese: The cheese adds a delicious, creamy element that balances out the spicy, rich birria filling, creating a perfect contrast of textures.
- Crispy Tacos: The lightly fried tortillas bring a satisfying crunch to the tacos, giving them the perfect texture when combined with the soft, flavorful meat and melty cheese.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Tortillas: For the best results, use fresh corn tortillas. If you can find homemade or fresh-made tortillas, they’ll add to the authenticity and flavor of the quesatacos.
- Customize the Filling: While beef is most commonly used, you can use other meats like goat or lamb for an authentic birria experience. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a sharp cheddar.
- Control the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder taco, you can reduce the amount of dried chiles used in the birria sauce or opt for a mild salsa.
The Bottom Line
Cheesy Birria Quesatacos are a flavorful, cheesy twist on a traditional Mexican favorite. With tender, spiced meat, gooey cheese, and crispy tortillas, they’re a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a taco night, making a family dinner, or just craving something indulgent, these quesatacos are sure to satisfy. So, gather your ingredients, get ready to fry, melt, and dip, and enjoy a deliciously cheesy taco experience!
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