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Birria Oxtails Tacos

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Title: Birria Oxtails Tacos: A Flavorful Twist on a Mexican Classic

Birria tacos have taken the world by storm, and for good reason—they’re packed with rich, spicy flavors that are hard to resist. But have you ever tried making them with oxtails? This Birria Oxtails Tacos recipe offers a delicious, tender, and savory twist on the traditional dish. Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering tacos, along with some useful tips and frequently asked questions.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs oxtails
  • 4 dried guajillo chilies
  • 2 dried ancho chilies
  • 1 dried chipotle chili
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp black peppercorns
  • 3 cloves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt to taste
  • Corn tortillas
  • Chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chilies: Remove the stems and seeds from the dried chilies. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet until fragrant, then soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes until softened.
  2. Make the Sauce: Blend the softened chilies with garlic, onion, tomatoes, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, cloves, and a little bit of the soaking water until smooth.
  3. Cook the Oxtails: In a large pot, heat some oil and sear the oxtails until browned on all sides. Pour in the chili sauce, beef broth, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
  4. Shred the Meat: Once the oxtails are cooked, remove them from the pot and shred the meat, discarding the bones. Strain the cooking liquid to use as a dipping sauce for the tacos.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Heat the corn tortillas on a griddle. Place a generous amount of shredded oxtail meat on each tortilla, then fold them in half. Serve with chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges, and don’t forget to dip your tacos in the rich, flavorful broth!

Tips for Perfect Birria Oxtails Tacos:

  • Can I use another cut of meat instead of oxtails?
    Absolutely! While oxtails add a unique richness, you can substitute them with beef short ribs or even chuck roast if you prefer.
  • How do I get the tortillas crispy?
    To get that perfect crispy exterior, lightly fry the assembled tacos in a bit of oil on a hot griddle. This will give them a golden, crispy finish that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside.
  • What if I don’t have all the chilies mentioned?
    Don’t worry! If you can’t find all the specific chilies, you can still make a delicious birria using the chilies you have on hand. Just adjust the quantities to taste.
  • Can I make this recipe in advance?
    Yes, this recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. You can prepare the meat and sauce a day ahead and reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
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Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What makes birria tacos so popular?
    Birria tacos have gained popularity due to their rich, spicy flavor profile, combined with the unique experience of dipping the tacos in a flavorful broth. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender, juicy meat inside makes them irresistible.
  2. Is this dish spicy?
    The spice level can be adjusted to your liking. The dried chilies used in this recipe provide a deep, complex flavor without being overwhelmingly hot. However, if you prefer more heat, feel free to add more chipotle or other spicy chilies.
  3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
    Yes, birria freezes well. Store the shredded meat and broth in separate containers in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
  4. What should I serve with Birria Oxtails Tacos?
    These tacos pair beautifully with Mexican street corn (elote), rice, beans, and a refreshing side salad. A cold beer or a margarita also complements the dish perfectly.

Conclusion:

Birria Oxtails Tacos offer a delicious twist on a beloved Mexican dish. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something incredibly flavorful, this recipe will not disappoint. Don’t forget to experiment with the tips provided to make these tacos your own. Happy cooking!