Birria Tacos: A Culinary Sensation in 2021
Birria is a Mexican dish that recently began to gain the groundswell of popularity that ramen enjoyed here in the U.S. about a decade ago. And just like ramen—and unlike edible cookie dough and unicorn-colored whatever—birria is not some food concept that was born in a marketing boardroom. In fact, birria couldn’t be more of the opposite. Working-class Mexicans make this humble dish as a special occasion meal. Aside from being showcased at weddings and holidays, it was embraced as a surefire hangover cure way before it ever made a cameo in any food influencer’s selfies.
The Origins of Birria Tacos
Birria tacos have a rich history that traces back to the state of Jalisco in Mexico. This traditional Mexican dish is believed to have originated in the town of Cocula. Birria is a flavorful stew traditionally made with slow-cooked meat, typically goat or beef, combined with various spices and seasonings. Over time, this hearty stew has evolved into a popular filling for tacos, gaining immense popularity both in Mexico and worldwide.
The Birria Taco Craze
In recent years, Birria tacos have experienced a surge in popularity, becoming a culinary sensation in 2021. Food enthusiasts and chefs worldwide have embraced this flavorful delight, and Birria taco vendors have popped up in various cities, captivating taste buds and creating a buzz on social media. The combination of tender, juicy meat, flavorful broth, and the unique twist of being served in a crispy, grilled tortilla has made Birria tacos a must-try dish for many food enthusiasts.
The Making of Birria Tacos
The process of making Birria tacos involves slow-cooking meat, typically beef or goat, in a flavorful broth infused with an array of aromatic spices and seasonings. The meat is traditionally marinated overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat. The slow-cooking process results in succulent, melt-in-your-mouth meat that is then shredded and placed in corn tortillas. The tortillas are grilled until crispy, creating a delicious contrast of textures. The final touch is dipping the tacos in the flavorful cooking broth, known as consommé, or serving it alongside for dipping.
Variations and Accompaniments
While the traditional Birria tacos feature goat or beef, creative variations have emerged in 2021, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. Some vendors offer options like chicken or vegetarian fillings, expanding the range of choices for taco lovers. Additionally, various toppings and garnishes such as diced onions, cilantro, lime, and a variety of salsas can be added to enhance the flavors. The consommé, with its rich flavors, is often served alongside the tacos for dipping or as a side soup.
The popularity of Birria tacos in 2021 can be attributed to their rich flavors, unique presentation, and the social media buzz surrounding them. Whether enjoyed from a food truck, a street vendor, or a trendy restaurant, Birria tacos have captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts around the world. The combination of tender, flavorful meat, crispy tortillas, and the rich consommé creates a memorable dining experience that continues to delight taco lovers in 2021 and beyond.
