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–+ servings

Birria Hands

Birria Hands are a flavorful and interactive Mexican dish, perfect for gatherings or a cozy meal, featuring tender beef and crispy tortillas.
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Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 7 hours
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Meat & Marinade

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast (or short ribs)
  • 3 pieces dried guajillo chiles (seeded) Use fresh chiles for the best flavor.
  • 2 pieces dried ancho chiles
  • 1 piece dried pasilla chile
  • 1 piece chipotle in adobo (optional) Omit for milder flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic cloves
  • 1 piece white onion, halved
  • 1 tsp Mexican oregano
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • 3 cloves whole cloves
  • ¼ cup vinegar
  • ½ cup beef broth Use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
  • to taste Salt Adjust according to preference.

Tortillas & Toppings

  • 12 pieces corn tortillas Fresh corn tortillas are recommended.
  • 2 cups Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese, shredded Choose cheese according to preference.
  • ½ cup chopped white onion
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro
  • to taste Lime wedges For serving.

Optional Garnishes

  • to taste Pickled red onions
  • to taste Jalapeño slices
  • to taste Radishes

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Soak the dried chiles in hot water for 10 minutes until softened.
  • In a blender, combine the soaked chiles, chipotle, garlic, vinegar, spices, and ½ cup of beef broth. Blend until smooth.
  • Coat the beef with this marinade and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.

Cooking

  • Cook the beef with the marinade, onion, and enough water in a Dutch oven for 3 hours or in an Instant Pot for 45 minutes until tender.
  • Remove the beef, shred it, and reserve the broth. Strain the broth to create consommé. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
  • Keep the shredded beef warm in some of the consommé.

Assembly

  • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Dip tortillas in the top layer of the consommé.
  • Add shredded beef and cheese to one half of each tortilla. Fold and cook until crispy and golden on both sides.
  • Serve hot with consommé on the side for dipping.

Notes

For richer flavor, let the beef marinate overnight. Adjust the heat level by adding or omitting the chipotle. Add more spices or fresh herbs to customize your taste. If you can, use fresh corn tortillas for the best texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g
Keyword Birria, Comfort Food, Mexican Food, Street Food, Tacos
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