Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. of beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp. of vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp. of ground cumin
- 1 tbsp. of chili powder
- 1 tsp. of dried oregano
- 1 tsp. of salt
- 1/2 tsp. of black pepper
- 4 cups of beef broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 can of tomato sauce
- 1 lb. of frozen french fries
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, add the beef chuck roast, onion, garlic, vegetable oil, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.
4. Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
5. Preheat the oven according to the instructions on the package of the frozen french fries.
6. Arrange the french fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake according to the instructions on the package.
7. Once the french fries are cooked, remove them from the oven and top them with the shredded beef and shredded cheese.
8. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the chopped cilantro on top of the fries.
10. Serve the birria fries hot with lime wedges on the side.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 8 hours (slow cooker) + 30 minutes (oven)
Temperature:
- Slow cooker: low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours
- Oven: follow the instructions on the package of the frozen french fries
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 650
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 34g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Beef chuck roast: beef brisket or beef short ribs
- Vegetable oil: canola oil or olive oil
- Beef broth: chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Frozen french fries: homemade french fries or tater tots
- Shredded cheese: Monterey Jack cheese or cheddar cheese
- Cilantro: parsley or green onions
Variations:
- Birria tacos: use the shredded beef to make tacos instead of fries
- Birria quesadillas: use the shredded beef to make quesadillas instead of fries
- Birria nachos: use the shredded beef to make nachos instead of fries
Tips and tricks:
- Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
- Make the shredded beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use leftover shredded beef to make other dishes like tacos, quesadillas, or nachos.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover birria fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the birria fries in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the birria fries on a large platter for sharing.
- Garnish the fries with additional cilantro and lime wedges.
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
Pairings:
- Mexican beer
- Margaritas
Suggested side dishes:
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Refried beans
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beef is tough, cook it for an additional hour in the slow cooker.
- If the cheese is not melted, broil the fries for 1-2 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Store leftover birria fries in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
- Birria is a traditional Mexican dish that originated in the state of Jalisco.
- It is typically made with goat or lamb, but beef is also used.
- Birria is often served as a stew or in tacos.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy
- Savory
- Tangy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the birria fries as a main dish for dinner or as an appetizer for a party.
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Region: Mexican