How To Fry Birria Taco Shells

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How To Fry Birria Taco Shells

Make Your Own Delicious Birria Taco Shells at Home!

Are you a fan of Mexican cuisine? If so, then you’ve probably heard of the mouthwatering dish called Birria. Traditionally made with tender, slow-cooked meat and fragrant spices, Birria has gained popularity all over the world. While the dish is typically enjoyed as a stew, have you ever thought about taking it to the next level by frying it into crispy taco shells? In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of how to fry Birria taco shells right in the comfort of your own kitchen.

What Exactly is Birria?

Just in case you’re new to the world of Birria, let’s quickly explain what it is. Birria is a Mexican dish that originated in the state of Jalisco, but it is now enjoyed all across the country. The star of the dish is the tender, flavorful meat, typically made from beef, goat, or even lamb. The meat is slow-cooked for hours in a fragrant blend of spices such as cumin, cloves, and dried peppers. The result is a rich, savory dish that is incredibly versatile.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 2 pounds of beef chuck or goat meat
  • 4 dried guajillo peppers
  • 3 dried ancho peppers
  • 1 tablespoon of cumin powder
  • 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 cup of beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Corn tortillas

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Start by rehydrating the dried peppers. Remove the stems and seeds, then place them in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Let them soak for about 20 minutes until they become soft.
  2. In the meantime, take your beef or goat meat and cut it into chunks. Season it generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Once the peppers have softened, drain them and transfer them to a blender. Add the garlic, cumin, oregano, and beef broth. Blend until smooth.
  4. Pour the sauce over the seasoned meat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add enough water to cover the meat.
  5. Cover the pot and simmer the meat over low heat for about 4-5 hours until it becomes tender and falls apart easily.
  6. Once the meat is ready, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks.
  7. In a separate skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  8. Take a corn tortilla and dip it into the hot oil for a few seconds on each side until it becomes pliable.
  9. Remove the tortilla from the oil and place it on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
  10. Take a couple of spoonfuls of the shredded Birria meat and place it in the center of the tortilla.
  11. Fold the tortilla over, creating a half-moon shape.
  12. Gently press down on the tortilla with a spatula to seal it.
  13. Return the folded tortilla to the hot oil and fry it for about a minute on each side until it turns golden brown and crispy.
  14. Once the taco shell is ready, remove it from the oil and let it drain on a paper towel.
  15. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and Birria meat.

Serve and Enjoy!

Now that you’ve mastered the art of frying Birria taco shells, it’s time to assemble your delicious creations. Fill each shell with your favorite toppings such as chopped onions, cilantro, fresh lime juice, and a spicy salsa. Serve them alongside a bowl of the rich Birria broth for dipping, and get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite.

Frying Birria taco shells at home is a fun and tasty way to elevate your taco night. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor the juicy, crispy, and savory goodness of homemade Birria tacos. Your taste buds will thank you!

Share your tips and techniques for frying the perfect Birria taco shells in the Cooking Techniques forum.
FAQ:
What is birria?
Birria is a traditional Mexican dish typically made with goat or beef, cooked in a flavorful broth with various spices and seasonings. It is known for its rich and savory flavors, making it a popular choice for tacos.
Can I make birria with chicken instead of beef or goat?
Absolutely! While traditional birria is made with goat or beef, you can also use chicken as a delicious and flavorful alternative. The cooking method and seasonings can be adjusted accordingly to suit the chicken.
How do I prepare the birria meat for frying taco shells?
To prepare the birria meat for frying taco shells, you will first slow-cook the meat until it becomes tender and easily shreds. Once the meat is cooked, you can shred it using forks or your hands. The flavorful broth from cooking the meat can also be reserved and used for dipping the taco shells.
What type of taco shells are best for frying birria?
Corn tortillas are most commonly used for frying birria taco shells. They provide a delicious and authentic Mexican taste. You can either use store-bought corn tortillas or make your own at home.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
While corn tortillas are the traditional choice, you can certainly use flour tortillas if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste will differ slightly from the authentic birria tacos made with corn tortillas.
How hot should the oil be to fry the birria taco shells?
The oil should be heated to around 350°F (175°C) for frying the birria taco shells. This temperature ensures that the shells cook evenly and become crispy without burning. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature accurately.
What are some popular toppings for birria tacos?
There are many delicious toppings you can add to your birria tacos. Some popular options include diced onions, chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. You can also serve them with a side of consommé, the flavorful broth from cooking the meat, for dipping.

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