Birria Ramen Recipe: Savory Fusion Delight
Hey y’all! Today, we’re diving into the world of fusion cuisine with a dish that’s sure to wow your taste buds: Birria Ramen. This savory delight combines the rich, spicy flavors of traditional Mexican birria with the comforting slurp of Japanese ramen noodles. Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is both a comfort food classic and a modern twist. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- This Birria Ramen combines rich, spicy flavors with comforting noodles.
- It’s the perfect dish for impressing friends and family.
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Delicious and satisfying on a cold day.
- Ready in under 2 hours with minimal prep work.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 dried guajillo chiles
- 2 dried ancho chiles
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 packs of ramen noodles
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chiles
Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillo and ancho chiles. Soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to soften.
Step 2: Blend the Sauce
In a blender, combine the soaked chiles, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, and a cup of the soaking liquid. Blend until smooth.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Simmer the Birria
Return the beef to the pot and pour over the blended sauce. Add the cinnamon stick, beef broth, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1.5 hours or until the beef is tender.
Step 5: Cook the Ramen
Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Assemble the Birria Ramen
Divide the noodles among bowls. Top with the beef and broth. Garnish with cilantro, onion, and lime wedges. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight. Check Serious Eats for marination tips.
- For a spicier kick, add more chipotle peppers.
- You can use a slow cooker for this recipe to enhance the flavors further.
Variations
- Chicken Birria Ramen: Substitute chicken thighs for beef.
- Vegetarian Birria Ramen: Use vegetable broth and add mushrooms or tofu.
- Spicy Miso Birria Ramen: Add a tablespoon of miso paste for a unique twist.
Required Equipment
- Large pot
- Blender
- Knife and cutting board
- Ramen noodle cooker
Storage Instructions
Store leftover birria in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving. The noodles are best cooked fresh, but can be stored separately for 1 day.
Suggested Pairings
Pair this Birria Ramen with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the rich broth. A refreshing Mexican beer or a sake cocktail complements the spicy notes beautifully.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh ramen noodles for the best texture. See Bon Appétit for noodle recommendations.
- For deeper flavor, allow the birria to sit overnight before reheating and serving.
- Adjust the consistency of the broth by adding more beef broth as needed.
FAQ
- Can I make Birria Ramen in advance? Yes, the birria can be made a day in advance and reheated with fresh noodles for serving.
- What can I use instead of beef chuck? Lamb or goat can be used for a traditional twist.
- How do I adjust the spice level? Reduce or increase the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to your taste preference.
