Craving authentic Mexican flavors but short on time? This Easy Birria Recipe using your Instant Pot is the perfect solution! Forget hours of simmering; this recipe delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth birria in a fraction of the time. It's a delicious and surprisingly simple recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend fiesta. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredible, homemade dish!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 guajillo chiles, stemmed, seeded, and soaked in hot water for 30 minutes
- 2 ancho chiles, stemmed, seeded, and soaked in hot water for 30 minutes
- 1 pasilla chile, stemmed, seeded, and soaked in hot water for 30 minutes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn tortillas, for serving
- Optional toppings: onions, cilantro, lime wedges, salsa
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chiles
After soaking the chiles, drain them and blend them with a little bit of the soaking water until smooth. This creates a rich and flavorful base for your birria. If you prefer a less spicy birria, you can remove more seeds from the chiles.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
In your Instant Pot, set the "Sauté" function. Add the olive oil, then brown the beef cubes in batches. Don't overcrowd the pot; browning the beef properly develops a deeper flavor. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Add the chopped onion to the Instant Pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the blended chiles, beef broth, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaves to the Instant Pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Instant Pot Cooking
Return the browned beef to the Instant Pot. Season generously with salt and pepper. Secure the lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then allow for a natural pressure release for 20 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Step 6: Shred and Serve
Carefully remove the beef from the Instant Pot. Using two forks, shred the beef. You can skim off some of the excess fat from the cooking liquid if desired. Return the shredded beef to the pot and mix with the sauce.
Serve your delicious birria in warm corn tortillas with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Birria:
- Don't skip the searing: This step adds depth of flavor to your birria.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness level.
- Make it ahead: This birria tastes even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Slow Cooker Version: This recipe can be easily adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the beef as instructed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Add Vegetables: Include diced carrots, potatoes, or other vegetables for a heartier birria.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low (depending on tortilla serving size)
This Easy Birria Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its rich flavors and tender beef make it a truly satisfying and memorable meal. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious dish in your own kitchen! Happy cooking!