Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Chilies and Vegetables
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Toast the guajillo, ancho, and chipotle chilies for 2-3 minutes per side until fragrant but not burned. Transfer to a bowl and cover with hot water. Let soak for 20 minutes.
- Using tongs or holding with a fork, char the onion quarters and tomatoes directly over a gas flame or under the broiler until blackened in spots, about 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside.
- Drain the soaked chilies and add them to a blender with the charred onion, tomatoes, garlic, salt, peppercorns, oregano, cumin, cloves, and 2 cups of water. Blend until completely smooth, about 2 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
Braise the Meat
- Season the short ribs and chuck roast generously with salt. Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Brown the meat in batches, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Pour the strained chili mixture into the same pot and bring to a boil. Return the meat to the pot, add the bay leaves, beef broth, and remaining 2 cups of water. The liquid should barely cover the meat.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 3-4 hours until the meat is fork-tender and falling apart. Check occasionally and add more water if needed.
- Remove the meat and shred it using two forks, discarding any bones and excess fat. Strain the cooking liquid and skim off the fat from the surface. This is your consomme. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt.
Assemble and Serve
- Dip each tortilla in the warm consomme to coat both sides. Place on a hot griddle or large skillet over medium heat.
- Add a handful of shredded meat to one half of the tortilla, top with cheese, and fold over. Cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden, then flip and cook another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve immediately with small bowls of the warm consomme for dipping, along with diced onion, cilantro, and lime wedges on the side.
Notes
The birria can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated. The fat will solidify on top of the consomme, making it easy to remove. Reheat gently before serving. For extra richness, save some of the skimmed fat to brush on the tortillas before griddling. If you can't find Oaxaca cheese, Monterey Jack or mozzarella work as substitutes.
