Birria Quesatacos
Slow braised beef in corn tortillas with melted cheese, served with consommé for dipping. Available from Dank Burrito.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Transfer Co. Food Hall
Birria, originating from Jalisco, Mexico, began as a humble goat stew. Its transformation into the trendy Birria Quesatacos is a relatively recent phenomenon, fueled by culinary innovation and social media popularity, particularly in the US.
Birria Quesatacos, while a relatively new dish, have quickly become a cultural phenomenon, representing a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with modern culinary trends and social media influence.
Social Media Sensation
The visual appeal of Birria Quesatacos, with their dripping cheese and vibrant consommé, has made them incredibly popular on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, driving their widespread adoption.
Fusion Cuisine
They represent a fusion of traditional birria, often served as a stew, with the popular taco format, creating a new and exciting culinary experience.
Celebratory Dish
While accessible as street food, birria itself, and therefore Birria Quesatacos, is often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions due to the lengthy preparation time involved.
Birria Quesatacos offer a rich and complex flavor profile, balancing savory, spicy, and cheesy elements.
The primary flavor comes from the birria, typically made with beef (though goat, lamb, or veal can be used) that's slow-braised in a complex adobo marinade featuring dried chiles (such as guajillo, ancho, and pasilla), garlic, onions, herbs (like bay leaves and thyme), and spices (like cumin, cloves, and oregano). This results in a deep, earthy, spicy, and umami-rich meat. The melted cheese (often Oaxaca or Monterey Jack) adds a creamy, salty counterpoint, while the crispy corn tortilla provides a textural contrast. Dipping the taco into the consommé, a flavorful broth from the braising liquid, amplifies the savory and spicy notes.
Consommé Quality
The quality of the consommé is crucial. It should be rich, flavorful, and well-strained to remove any excess fat or solids. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Cheese Selection
Choose a cheese that melts well and has a good flavor. Oaxaca or Monterey Jack are excellent choices, but quesillo or a blend of cheeses can also be used.
Tortilla Crispness
Achieving the perfect level of crispness for the tortillas is key. Fry them in the rendered fat from the birria or in oil until golden brown and slightly firm.
Dipping Technique
Don't be shy about dipping the entire taco into the consommé. This maximizes the flavor and keeps the taco moist and delicious.
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