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Slow Cooker Birria Tacos

These Slow Cooker Birria Tacos feature a rich blend of spices and tender chuck roast, served in warm tortillas for an authentic taste experience.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Meat and Sauce Ingredients
  • 3 pounds chuck roast Opt for high-quality chuck roast for maximum tenderness.
  • 2 dried Guajillo Peppers Choose vibrant colored peppers, free of dark spots.
  • 2 dried Ancho Chiles
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 yellow onion One onion is used for the sauce, and another is diced for topping.
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 4 cups beef broth Consider low-sodium for a healthier option.
  • 3 bay leaves
Taco Assembly Ingredients
  • 10-12 pieces corn tortillas Warm and crispy when cooked.
  • 12 ounces shredded monterey jack cheese
  • 1 yellow onion diced Used as a topping.
  • 1 bunch cilantro Chopped for garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut open the dried Guajillo peppers and Ancho chilies. Remove stems and seeds, then cut into smaller pieces. Place in a bowl, cover with boiling water, and let rest for 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cut the chuck roast into four equal pieces. Sear each piece for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer the browned pieces to the slow cooker.
Making the Sauce
  1. In a food processor, combine the rehydrated peppers, garlic cloves, one onion, tomato sauce, oregano, cumin, kosher salt, and apple cider vinegar. Blend until smooth.
Cooking
  1. Pour the sauce over the browned meat in the slow cooker. Add bay leaves and beef broth, then stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours.
  2. Once cooking is complete, skim off the oil floating on the surface of the broth using a ladle.
Assembling the Tacos
  1. Carefully remove the beef and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Ensure each piece is coated in the flavorful sauce.
  2. Heat a skillet or flattop grill over medium heat. Dip one side of a tortilla into the reserved oil, then place it oiled side down in the skillet. Top with cheese and shredded beef, cooking until crispy.
  3. Open each taco and sprinkle with diced onion and cilantro before closing. Serve with a side of reserved broth for dipping.

Notes

For extra crispy tacos, ensure the skillet is hot before adding tortillas. You can prepare the sauce a day in advance to save time on cooking day.