One of the most transformative recipes you’ll ever try in your kitchen is the beef birria sliders. This savory delight combines the rich flavors of traditional Mexican birria with the casual and fun appeal of sliders, making it a perfect hit for any gathering.
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Growing up, my grandmother would often prepare a pot of birria that could feed an entire family reunion. The aroma would fill the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen, eagerly anticipating the first bite. When I decided to create a mini version for game day, it quickly became a family favorite. My kids love how they can enjoy the same robust flavors in a fun, bite-sized form.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine into the realm of modern appetizers. Not only is it bursting with bold flavors, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, these sliders are stacked with tender, juicy beef infused with your favorite spices. Plus, they’re versatile enough to satisfy even the pickiest eaters, ensuring that your entire family will ask for more.
Ingredients Notes
Key ingredients include chuck roast, dried guajillo chiles, and a variety of spices like cumin and oregano. For those who prefer a bit more heat, consider adding some dried arbol chiles. If guajillo chiles are difficult to find, ancho chiles can be a good substitute, providing a slightly sweeter flavor. Remember to toast your spices before blending to maximize their aroma and intensity.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by seasoning the beef with salt and pepper generously, then sear it in a heavy pot until all sides are browned. This will enhance the depth of flavor in your birria.
Step 2
Remove the beef and add chopped onions and garlic to the pot, sautéing until golden brown. This step is crucial for building the base flavor of the dish.
Step 3
Add your blended mixture of toasted chiles and spices to the pot with the onions and garlic, and cook for a few more minutes to develop a fragrant paste.
Step 4
Return the beef to the pot, add beef stock, and then let the meat simmer gently for 3 hours until perfectly tender.
Step 5
Shred the beef, and serve it on small slider buns topped with freshly chopped cilantro and onion. Optionally, dip the buns briefly in the birria broth for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage Options
To store leftover sliders, tightly wrap them in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For a longer storage option, freeze the shredded beef and separate buns. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in an oven set to 375°F to crisp up the bread and warm the filling.
Variations & Substitutions
If you’re catering to a vegetarian crowd, substitute the beef with jackfruit or mushrooms. For a tangy twist, add a slice of pickled jalapeño into each slider. You can also experiment by incorporating a slice of melted cheese over the beef for an indulgent cheesy birria slider.
Serving Suggestions
Beef birria sliders are ideal for casual parties, game day spreads, or a fun family dinner. Serve them with a side of pickled red onions and a tangy coleslaw. For a complete Mexican-inspired feast, pair these sliders with a refreshing guacamole and crisp tortilla chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make the beef more tender? Slow cooking is key. Ensure you allow the beef to simmer over low heat for at least 3 hours or until it shreds easily with a fork. If using a slow cooker, set it on low for 6-8 hours.
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, lamb or chicken can be wonderful alternatives in this recipe. Adjust cooking times as necessary, particularly for chicken, which will cook faster than beef.
How spicy are these sliders? The level of spiciness depends on the chiles you use. Guajillo chiles provide a mild heat, so if you’re serving spicy food enthusiasts, you might want to add arbol chiles, which are hotter.
Incorporate these sliders into your next menu rotation, and watch as they become a household favorite. Whether you’re new to Mexican flavors or an expert looking for a fun twist, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
How to Make 7 Lip-Smacking Beef Birria Sliders at Home!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4.5 pounds beef shoulder cut into chunks
- 4 pounds beef brisket boneless, sliced
- 10 cloves garlic smashed
- 1.5 cups apple cider vinegar
- 8 dried ancho chilies stemmed and deseeded
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1.5 cups beef stock
- 2 columns bay leaves
- 2 packages sweet slider buns such as Hawaiian rolls
- 1 pound cheddar cheese sliced
- 1 cup pickled jalapeños sliced
- 2 cups chopped cilantro
- 2 limes cut into wedges for serving
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your pressure cooker or Instant Pot using the sauté setting. Add a drizzle of olive oil and brown the beef shoulder and brisket in batches.
- Remove the beef and set aside. In the same pot, add garlic, dried chilies, and spices. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in apple cider vinegar and beef stock. Stir well and return the beef to the pot, ensuring it's mostly submerged in liquid. Add bay leaves.
- Seal the pot and cook under high pressure for 75 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for at least 15 minutes.
- Remove the beef from the pot, shred with two forks, and discard any excess fat. Strain the cooking liquid and use it as consommé for serving.
- Preheat the oven grill. Split the slider buns and place them on a baking sheet. Toast under the grill for 2 minutes.
- Top the bottom halves with shredded beef and sliced cheddar. Return to the grill until cheese is melted.
- Garnish with pickled jalapeños, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice before serving with a side of the strained consommé for dipping.
