Authentic and Flavorful Slow Cooker Birria Tacos (Shredded Beef)
This authentic birria taco recipe delivers tender shredded beef cooked in a rich, smoky broth with layers of complex spices. Perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal that impresses every time.
Toast the ancho, guajillo, and chiles de arbol in a dry skillet over medium heat. You’ll smell the peppers get fragrant in just 1-2 minutes. Watch so they don’t burn!
Soak the toasted chiles in hot water for about 15 minutes till they soften and get all plump.
Blend the softened chiles with garlic, chopped onion, roma tomatoes, cinnamon stick, black peppercorns, chili powder, and cumin until super smooth.
Pour this rich sauce into your pressure cooker insert. Add bay leaves and water for broth depth.
Add your chuck roast and coat it real good with that sauce. Lock the lid and check your sealing ring’s snug to keep steam in.
Cook on high pressure for about 1 hour until that beef is tender pull ready. Then let natural release do its thing. When you open it, shred the beef with two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
Serve warm with corn tortillas, melted Oaxaca cheese, and a fresh squeeze of lime on top.
Store leftover beef and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
Great served with warmed corn tortillas and fresh lime juice. Store leftovers properly to maintain broth depth and tenderness.