Birria Ramen is a delightful fusion dish that brings together the rich, spiced flavors of traditional Mexican birria with the comforting texture of Japanese ramen noodles. The slow-cooked, tender meat combined with a deeply flavorful broth creates an irresistible combination. The birria broth, simmered with chili peppers, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, serves as the base, while the ramen noodles soak up all the goodness. Topped with fresh cilantro, onions, lime, and sometimes even cheese or avocado, this dish delivers a perfect balance of heat, heartiness, and refreshing brightness.
Birria Ramen Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef (chuck roast or short ribs)
- 2 dried guajillo chiles
- 2 dried ancho chiles
- 1 dried chipotle chile (optional for heat)
- 4 tomatoes, roasted
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 onion, roughly chopped
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 4 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 packs of ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced onion
- Lime wedges for serving
- Optional toppings: cheese, avocado, or pickled jalapeños
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chiles: Remove the stems and seeds from the dried chiles. Toast them lightly in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes to soften.
- Blend the Sauce: In a blender, add the softened chiles, roasted tomatoes, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, and a cup of beef broth. Blend until smooth.
- Cook the Birria: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium heat. Brown the beef on all sides, then pour in the blended sauce. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, bay leaves, and remaining beef broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 3-4 hours on low heat, until the meat is tender and shreddable.
- Shred the Meat: Once the beef is done, remove it from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot and simmer for another 15-20 minutes.
- Cook the Ramen: While the birria finishes simmering, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Assemble the Ramen: To serve, divide the ramen noodles between bowls. Ladle the birria broth over the noodles and top with the shredded meat.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. Optional toppings like cheese or avocado can be added for extra flavor.
Enjoy your fusion of flavors with this mouthwatering Birria Ramen!
