Start by making the birria, the star of your Birria Tacos. In a large pot, combine the dried chiles, onion, garlic, cumin, thyme, bay leaves, and beef broth. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes to develop rich flavors. Then, add the beef chuck roast, ensuring it’s submerged in the broth. Cover and braise on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shreds apart.
Once the beef is cooked to perfection, remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. While the beef rests, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, discarding the solids. This will create a beautiful consommé, which is essential for dipping and frying your tacos. Shred the tender beef with two forks and set aside for assembling the Birria Tacos.
Now it’s time to assemble the tacos! Take a corn tortilla and place a generous portion of the shredded beef and a sprinkle of Oaxacan cheese in the center. Fold the tortilla in half to encase the fillings, ensuring the cheese is tucked in to melt beautifully while cooking. Continue this process with the remaining tortillas until all the fillings are used up.
For the next step, preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pour about a cup of the reserved consommé into a shallow dish. Dip each assembled taco into the consommé, ensuring they are well-coated but not overly soggy. Once the skillet is hot, add the tacos, frying them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. This step is crucial for achieving that delectable crunch characteristic of Birria Tacos.
Finally, serve your crispy Birria Tacos immediately, alongside a bowl of the warm consommé for dipping. Add your favorite toppings like chopped onion, cilantro, lime wedges, and radishes to elevate the flavor experience. With each bite, you’ll savor the harmony of tender beef, melty cheese, and crispy tortilla, making every meal a celebration!