At our Vallarta Mexican restaurants in Manchester, we bring the diverse flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine to New Hampshire. If you take a look at our menu, you’ll see lots of dishes with countless flavor combinations. In this article, we want to highlight a particular item on our menu: birria. Birria is a traditional Mexican food that has gained popularity worldwide, especially in recent years. It originated in the state of Jalisco in Mexico and was traditionally made with goat meat, but now we tend to use beef or lamb. The stewed meat is loaded with flavor and is a delicious part of many dishes, including tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
At its core, birria is meat marinated in a combination of dried chiles, garlic, cumin, and other spices, giving it a deep red color and a slightly spicy kick. The marinated meat is then slow-cooked until tender, often in a broth that enhances its flavor. This slow-cooking method allows the meat to absorb the spices fully to pack maximum flavor into every bite.
Traditionally, birria is a food for celebrations, but it has also found a place in everyday dining. You can enjoy it on its own with rice and beans on the side or in a taco topped with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Many Mexican restaurants serve “birria tacos,” which are corn tortilla tacos filled with birria, dipped in the cooking broth, and then griddled. The result is a crispy taco, which adds a delightful texture to the delicious flavors.
In addition to its delicious taste, birria represents a rich cultural heritage, reflecting the culinary traditions of Mexico. As it continues to evolve and adapt, birria remains a beloved comfort food that brings people together, making it a must-try for anyone exploring Mexican cuisine. Mexican food is about bringing people together, both in the enjoyment and preparation of the food. Birria is a food that takes time to prepare because you have to marinate and slow-cook it. The flavors that result from that patience and effort are best enjoyed surrounded by friends and family.