====== Birria de Res, or Mexican Beef Stew ====== Birria de Res is a traditional Mexican stew, the perfect comfort food with rich, bold flavors that your tastebuds will enjoy. Prep Time 30 minutes, Cook Time 6 hours, Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes ===== Ingredients ===== * 4 lbs roast beef * 3-4 cups water * 5 dried chile guajillo * 2 dried chile ancho * 2 garlic cloves * 1 teaspoon dried oregano * 1 teaspoon dried thyme * 1 clove * ¼ whole cinnamon stick * 1 tablespoon beef bouillon * 2 laurel leaves (or bay leaves) * 2 tablespoons oil * Salt and pepper ===== Instructions ===== - Toast the chiles on the griddle for 2-3 minutes, turning frequently while making sure they do not burn. If they burn, discard the chiles and start again. - Once toasted, transfer to a heatproof bowl. Add 1 cup hot water and let the chiles soak for 5 minutes, or until pliable. - Seed and devein the chiles, saving the water. Don’t worry if some seeds remain. - Add the saved water, the chiles, garlic, oregano, thyme, clove, cinnamon, bouillon, laurel leaves (or bay leaves), salt and pepper in a blender and blend until smooth, then set aside. - In a large pot, heat two tablespoons oil, and salt and pepper to the beef. - Sear the beef on all sides. Once the meat is brown, transfer to the slow cooker. - Add the chile mixture from the blender, and add enough water to cover the meat. - Set slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. - Once done, shred the beef. - Serve with diced onions, chopped cilantro, and tortillas. ===== Notes ===== * Searing the meat before adding to the slow cooker locks in flavor. Don't skip this step! * Cut of beef used was chuck roast. https://inmamamaggieskitchen.com/slow-cooker-birria-de-res-mexican-beef-stew/