Authentic Mexican Birria Recipe Featuring Celery and Fresh Herbs

Birria, a traditional Mexican dish hailing from the state of Jalisco, is known for its rich flavors and tender meat. This recipe takes a classic approach and adds a delightful twist with the inclusion of celery and an array of fresh herbs. The result is a comforting, aromatic stew that is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
• 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into chunks (optional)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 medium onions, quartered
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 2-3 dried guajillo chiles, seeds removed and soaked in hot water
• 1-2 dried ancho chiles, seeds removed and soaked in hot water
• 2 cups celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Fresh lime wedges for serving
• Corn tortillas for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chiles: After soaking the guajillo and ancho chiles, blend them with a bit of their soaking water until smooth. Set aside.

2. Sear the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef and lamb with salt and pepper. Add the meat in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the quartered onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients: Return the browned meat to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, blended chiles, beef broth, and water. Stir to combine.

5. Add Celery and Spices: Toss in the chopped celery, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, and half of the chopped cilantro and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

6. Simmer: Cover and let the birria simmer for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily. Stir occasionally, and if the stew gets too thick, add more water or broth as needed.

7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If desired, add more fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor boost.

8. Serve: Ladle the birria into bowls, garnishing with the remaining cilantro and oregano. Serve with fresh lime wedges and warm corn tortillas for dipping.

Cooking Tips

• Choosing Meat: For authentic birria, a combination of beef and lamb works beautifully. If you prefer a single type, beef chuck alone is a great option.
• Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs whenever possible, as they enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh will always be more aromatic.
• Chili Varieties: Experiment with different dried chiles for varying levels of heat and flavor complexity. Chipotle chiles can add a smoky flavor if desired.
• Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: This recipe can also be adapted for a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience. Adjust cooking times accordingly, with Instant Pot typically needing about 45 minutes on high pressure.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your birria with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal. For a refreshing twist, consider serving a simple salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime.

Food Photography Ideas

When photographing your birria, capture the vibrant colors of the dish, highlighting the rich red hues of the broth and the green of the herbs. Consider serving in rustic bowls with tortillas on the side. Adding a lime wedge for a pop of color can enhance the visual appeal.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and jackfruit, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The spices will still provide that authentic birria flavor.

Further Reading and Resources

For more on the history of birria and its different regional variations, check out Mexican Food Journal.

Glossary of Terms

• Birria: A traditional Mexican stew made with meat, often flavored with spices and chiles.
• Guajillo Chile: A dried chili pepper that provides a mild heat and a rich flavor.
• Ancho Chile: A dried poblano pepper that adds sweetness and depth.
• Cilantro: An herb commonly used in Mexican cuisine, known for its fresh, citrusy flavor.

With its layers of flavor and comforting warmth, this Authentic Mexican Birria featuring Celery and Fresh Herbs is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it out and share your culinary adventure!