Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsEl Pollo LocoShredded Beef Birria Recipe

Shredded Beef Birria Recipe

Inspired by El Pollo Loco
Time3h
Serves6

Includes dipping sauce.

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Ingredients

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Beef

Chilies and Sauce

Serving

Method

Beef Preparation

  1. 1

    Season the Beef

    Rub the chuck roast with salt, black pepper, cumin, dried oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to coat it evenly.

  2. 2

    Sear the Meat

    In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned beef on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add Broth

    Pour the beef broth into the pot with the seared meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds.

Chili Sauce Preparation

  1. 4

    Prepare the Chilies

    Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillo and ancho chilies. Rinse them under cold water.

  2. 5

    Blend the Sauce

    In a blender, combine the prepared chilies, large tomato, garlic cloves, apple cider vinegar, and water. Blend until smooth.

  3. 6

    Combine Sauce with Beef

    Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it. Add the blended sauce to the pot with the beef broth and let it simmer for an additional 20 minutes.

Serving Preparation

  1. 7

    Prepare Tortillas

    Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or on a griddle until soft and pliable.

  2. 8

    Assemble the Dish

    Serve the shredded beef in the warm tortillas and top with chopped onion and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

  3. 9

    Dipping Sauce

    Use the remaining broth and sauce as a dipping sauce for the tacos.

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