Birria Burrito: A Complete Guide to This Mexican Favorite

Dive into the savory world of the Birria Burrito, where traditional Mexican birria meets the convenience of a burrito. Born in Jalisco, this dish wraps spiced, slow-cooked goat meat with rice, beans, and cheese in a warm tortilla. Celebrated globally for its rich flavors and satisfying textures, the birria burrito has captured the hearts of foodies worldwide, making it a modern staple in culinary fusion.

Birria Burrito: A Complete Guide to This Mexican Favorite

Recipe by Chef NinaCourse: Main CourseCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

2

hours 

Calories

Approximately 600 kcal per serving

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Birria Meat:

• First, you’ll need 2 lbs beef (chuck roast, short ribs, or brisket).

• Next, gather 2 dried guajillo chiles (seeded and stemmed).

• Additionally, prepare 2 dried ancho chiles (seeded and stemmed).

• Optionally, include 2 dried chipotle chiles (for extra heat).

• Then, have ready 4 garlic cloves (peeled).

• Moreover, you’ll need 1 large onion (quartered).

• Don’t forget 2 medium tomatoes (diced).

• You’ll also need 4 cups beef broth.

• For flavor, add 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar.

• To enhance the spices, include 1 tablespoon ground cumin.

• Follow that with 1 teaspoon dried oregano.

• Afterward, add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.

• Lastly, include 1 bay leaf, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

• For the Tortillas:

• In addition to the meat, have 4 large flour tortillas ready.

• For the Fillings:

• Begin with 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Oaxaca cheese).

• Include 1 cup cooked Mexican rice.

• If desired, prepare 1 cup refried beans (optional).

• Furthermore, chop ½ cup diced white onion.

• Add a fresh touch with ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves (chopped).

• Finally, complete the fillings with salsa (your choice: mild, spicy, or tomatillo salsa) and 1 lime (cut into wedges).

Directions

• Step 1: Prepare the Birria Meat
  Toast the Chiles:
  To begin, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Then, toast the guajillo, ancho, and chipotle chiles for about 30 seconds on each side, until they become fragrant. However, be careful not to burn them.
  Blend the Sauce:
  Next, in a blender, combine the toasted chiles, garlic, onion, tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and 1 cup of beef broth. Afterward, blend until smooth and set the mixture aside.
  Sear the Beef:
  Meanwhile, season the beef generously with salt and black pepper. Then, heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and sear the beef on all sides until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
  Simmer the Birria:
  After searing, pour the blended sauce over the beef. Add the remaining beef broth and the bay leaf. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easy to shred. Alternatively, for convenience, cook in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
  Shred the Meat:
  Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the pot. Using two forks, shred it into small pieces. Finally, return the shredded meat to the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.
• Step 2: Assemble the Burritos
  Prepare the Tortillas:
  First, warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
  Layer the Fillings:
  To start, spread a layer of refried beans (optional) in the center of the tortilla.
  Next, add a generous portion of birria meat. Then, layer with Mexican rice, shredded cheese, diced onion, and fresh cilantro.
  Roll the Burrito:
  After adding the fillings, fold in the sides of the tortilla. Finally, roll it tightly from the bottom to the top to form a burrito.
• Step 3: Toast and Serve
  Toast the Burrito (Optional):
  If desired, heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the rolled burrito seam-side down in the skillet. Toast for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
  Serve:
  Lastly, cut the burrito in half and serve immediately with salsa and lime wedges on the side.
• Optional Add-Ons
  Guacamole: To elevate the flavor, spread a layer of creamy guacamole inside the burrito or serve it as a side.
  Pickled Jalapeños: For an extra kick, add pickled jalapeños.
  Sour Cream: To add richness, drizzle sour cream over the burrito or serve it on the side.

What is Birria?

Birria is a traditional Mexican dish renowned for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. It originates from the state of Jalisco, where it was first crafted as a way to prepare goat meat. The term “birria” refers to something delicious and flavorful, perfectly describing this savory creation. Traditionally, birria is slow-cooked, a method that tenderizes tougher cuts of meat while allowing the vibrant spices to infuse deeply.

Origins and Traditional Preparation

Birria emerged during the colonial period as an ingenious solution to the introduction of goat meat by Spanish colonizers. By marinating the meat in a combination of dried chili peppers, garlic, herbs, and spices like cumin and oregano, and then slow-cooking it, locals transformed it into a delicacy. The traditional cooking method involves steaming or braising the meat in a clay pot, often accompanied by a flavorful broth called consomé. This dish was customarily enjoyed during special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and family gatherings.

Key Ingredients in an Authentic Birria Recipe

An authentic birria recipe typically includes:

• Meat: Goat is traditional, but beef, lamb, or pork are often used today.
• Chilies: Guajillo, ancho, and pasilla chilies provide a smoky, mildly spicy flavor.
• Spices: Garlic, cloves, bay leaves, cumin, and oregano are essential for depth.
• Acids: Vinegar or lime juice is used to tenderize the meat and enhance flavor.

Birria’s Transformation into a Versatile Filling

Over time, birria has transcended its roots as a stew. Its tender, shredded meat became a sought-after filling for tacos, quesadillas, and, more recently, burritos. This adaptation pairs the bold, spicy flavors of birria with the portability of handheld foods, creating a fusion that’s both traditional and innovative. Whether served in its original form or reimagined in modern dishes, birria continues to captivate food lovers around the world.

The Birth of the Birria Burrito

The birria burrito is a mouthwatering fusion that combines the deep, savory flavors of traditional birria with the versatility of burritos. By wrapping the tender, slow-cooked birria meat in a warm flour tortilla, this dish marries the essence of Mexico’s culinary heritage with the practicality and appeal of portable meals. The birria burrito is a celebration of both tradition and innovation, offering a modern twist on a centuries-old recipe.

Combining Birria with Burritos: A Fusion of Mexican Flavors

The concept of the birria burrito arose as birria gained popularity beyond its roots in Jalisco. With tacos already a favorite way to enjoy birria, food enthusiasts experimented with different formats, leading to the creation of the burrito version. This innovation allows for the addition of complementary ingredients like rice, beans, cheese, and even avocado or pico de gallo, creating a hearty, all-in-one meal. The burrito format also makes it easier to carry, making it a convenient choice for those on the go.

Regional Variations and Twists in Preparation

As the birria burrito spread across regions and countries, local influences introduced unique variations. In California, for instance, you might find birria burritos filled with melted cheese and grilled until crispy, while some Tex-Mex versions include extra spice or smoky chipotle flavors. The consomé, traditionally served alongside birria tacos for dipping, often accompanies the burrito as a flavorful side or sauce.

The birria burrito exemplifies how food evolves with creativity and regional adaptations while maintaining its cultural roots, earning its place as a globally adored dish.

Nutritional Insights and Health Benefits

The birria burrito is a flavorful, filling dish, but understanding its nutritional profile can help you enjoy it as part of a balanced diet. A standard birria burrito typically includes tender birria meat, rice, beans, cheese, and a flour tortilla, with optional toppings like sour cream and guacamole.

Caloric Breakdown of a Standard Birria Burrito

A typical birria burrito can range from 700 to 1,000 calories, depending on the portion size and additional ingredients. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Meat (birria): Approximately 250–300 calories, rich in protein and fats.
• Rice and beans: About 200–300 calories, providing carbohydrates and fiber.
• Tortilla: Around 200 calories, depending on its size and type.
• Cheese and toppings: Add 100–200 calories, mainly from fats.

While this makes for a hearty meal, the calorie count can increase with extras like sauces or larger portions.

Click on the name of recipe if you need recipe and more information about it: Birria Pizza – Birria Bombs – Birria Quesadillas – Mexican Rice in a Rice Cooker – Taco Joint Birria Ramen

Variations for a Healthier Version About Birria Burrito

For a lighter option, consider these substitutions:

• Lean protein: Use chicken or lean beef instead of fattier cuts.
• Whole-grain tortilla: Swap the traditional flour tortilla for a whole-grain version to add fiber.
• Vegetable fillings: Add more veggies like lettuce, peppers, or tomatoes for volume and nutrients.
• Reduced cheese: Use a smaller amount of low-fat cheese or skip it altogether.
• Skip heavy sauces: Opt for fresh salsa or lime juice instead of creamy or high-fat toppings.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of a birria burrito while keeping it aligned with your nutritional goals.

Popular Birria Burrito Variations

The birria burrito has evolved into a versatile dish that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. From bowls to plant-based options, these variations highlight the creativity and adaptability of this beloved meal.

1. Birria Burrito Bowl

For those who prefer a lighter, deconstructed version of the classic burrito, the birria burrito bowl is a fantastic option. Instead of wrapping the ingredients in a tortilla, they are served in a bowl, allowing for customization.

• Base: Choose from rice, quinoa, or mixed greens for a low-carb alternative.
• Toppings: Layer birria meat with beans, roasted vegetables, guacamole, pico de gallo, and shredded cheese.
• Sauce: Drizzle with consomé or a tangy lime vinaigrette.
  This variation is perfect for those who want the flavors of a birria burrito without the added calories from the tortilla.

2. Spicy Birria Burrito

For spice enthusiasts, the spicy birria burrito takes the heat up a notch by incorporating fiery ingredients.

• Birria enhancement: Add extra chili peppers, such as chipotle or habanero, to the meat during preparation.
• Spicy fillings: Include jalapeños, spicy salsa, or a dash of hot sauce.
• Creamy balance: Use a dollop of cooling avocado crema or yogurt-based sauce to temper the heat.
  This version caters to those who crave bold, fiery flavors and enjoy a kick with every bite.

3. Vegetarian or Vegan Alternatives

The growing demand for plant-based meals has inspired creative vegetarian and vegan birria burritos. These versions substitute the meat with hearty, flavorful alternatives.

• Protein replacement: Use jackfruit, mushrooms, lentils, or tofu seasoned with traditional birria spices to mimic the dish’s savory essence.
• Consomé alternative: Create a vegetable-based broth with roasted tomatoes, chilies, and herbs.
• Dairy-free toppings: Replace cheese with vegan cheese or omit it altogether, and use guacamole or cashew-based sauces for creaminess.
  These adaptations allow plant-based eaters to enjoy the rich flavors of birria in a sustainable, cruelty-free way.

Whether you’re a fan of the classic version or prefer innovative twists, these variations showcase the endless possibilities of the birria burrito, making it a dish for everyone.

Pairing Your Birria Burrito with the Right Sides

A well-crafted birria burrito becomes even more satisfying when paired with complementary sides and beverages. These additions enhance the flavors and create a balanced, enjoyable meal.

Best Sides

1. Mexican Rice
   • Fluffy, seasoned rice infused with tomatoes, garlic, and spices is the perfect accompaniment. Its subtle flavors balance the boldness of the birria and provide a comforting base.
2. Guacamole
   • Creamy, fresh guacamole adds a cooling contrast to the savory and spiced elements of the burrito. Its mix of avocado, lime, cilantro, and a hint of garlic elevates every bite.
3. Salsas
   • Choose from a variety of salsas to suit your taste:
     • Pico de gallo: A fresh, mild option made from diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
     • Salsa verde: Tangy and slightly spicy, made with tomatillos and green chilies.
     • Spicy red salsa: For those who enjoy an extra kick.

Recommended Beverages

Pairing the right drink enhances the dining experience. Consider these refreshing options:

• Agua fresca: Flavored waters made from fruits like watermelon, pineapple, or lime offer a naturally sweet and light complement.
• Sparkling water with lime: A simple, crisp option that cleanses the palate.
• Horchata: A creamy, cinnamon-infused rice milk beverage that balances the spice of the birria.

These pairings create a harmonious meal, ensuring every bite and sip is a celebration of flavor.

FAQs About Birria Burrito

Conclusion

The birria burrito is a culinary masterpiece that blends tradition with modern convenience, offering a rich and flavorful dining experience. With its roots in Mexico’s iconic birria, this dish has evolved into a versatile favorite enjoyed worldwide. The tender, spiced meat, paired with rice, beans, and a medley of toppings, all wrapped in a warm tortilla, creates a meal that is as satisfying as it is portable. Whether served with a side of consomé for dipping or accompanied by fresh salsas and guacamole, the birria burrito showcases the best of Mexican cuisine in every bite.

What makes the birria burrito so special is its adaptability. From spicy variations that cater to heat seekers to lighter options like burrito bowls or plant-based alternatives, there’s a version for every taste and dietary preference. Its global appeal is a testament to the creativity and innovation that keeps traditional recipes alive while allowing them to adapt to modern palates.

If you haven’t yet experienced the joy of a birria burrito, now is the perfect time to explore this recipe. Whether you prepare it at home or seek out a local restaurant, the birria burrito promises an unforgettable flavor journey. For those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, crafting your own version allows you to tailor the dish to your preferences, making it as spicy, cheesy, or veggie-packed as you like.

Dive into the world of birria burritos and savor a dish that combines heritage, bold flavors, and endless possibilities.