A Jaliscan comfort food champion
Birria originates in Jalisco state, western Mexico. The stew was popular at special occasions but is now commonly sold with tacos by street food vendors. Since the 1970s it has been growing in popularity in the US, with a recent TikTok trend raising its profile even further.
How adobo can you go?
In Mexico the complex marinade made of a wide range of chillies is known as adobo, coming from the Spanish verb “adobar” (to marinate). Typically used in meat or seafood based dishes, the often thick paste can be thinned out and transformed into a flavour-packed sauce for stews or dipping sauce.
Splendid side dishes
Birria tacos can shine on their own, but if a side dish is needed common accompaniments include cilantro lime rice (a Mexican favourite), fresh tomato salsa or a cool cucumber salad. Refried beans, Mexican street corn, or a creamy coleslaw are also traditional favourites that go well with this dish.
The secret to slow cooking birria tacos
There’s no substitute for time in the pursuit of the tastiest birria. If you have an entire day, you can even use a slow cooker for around eight hours at low heat. Either way, patience is key to get the most out of your sauce.
