Joe Sasto’s “Chicago Beef” Birria Tacos, as seen on Guy's Ranch Kitchen.
Recipe courtesy of Joe Sasto

"Chicago Beef" Birria Tacos

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  • Level: Intermediate
  • Total: 1 day 2 hr 15 min (includes pickling time)
  • Active: 1 hr 10 min
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Take your taste buds on a trip to Chicago with these bold and flavorful beef tacos, inspired by birria and the famous Chicago beef dip sandwich. Made with tender boneless short ribs and cooked in a pressure cooker with a blend of spices, this beef birria is packed with savory flavors that will satisfy your cravings. Topped with shredded provolone, tangy giardiniera and a drizzle of horseradish sauce, these tacos are the perfect balance of heat and coolness. Dip them in a rich and aromatic jus made with dried chiles, tomato paste and beef broth for a deliciously messy and satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a family dinner or a game-day snack, these tacos are sure to be a crowd pleaser!

Ingredients

"Chicago Beef" Birria:

Tacos:

Giardiniera:

Horseradish Sauce:

Directions

  1. For the "Chicago Beef" birria: In a pressure cooker, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the beef on all sides with salt and pepper. Add the beef to the pressure cooker and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the pepperoncini, beef broth, garlic powder, ground mustard, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, celery salt, fennel seed, garlic, bay leaves and onion. Stir to combine.
  3. Secure the lid of the pressure cooker and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.
  4. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
  5. Using a slotted spoon, remove the beef from the pressure cooker and shred it with two forks.
  6. Reduce the remaining braising liquid over medium heat.
  7. For the tacos: Dip the corn tortillas into the beef broth, then fill with the beef and shredded cheese. Place in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and slightly toasted.
  8. Add a spoonful of Giardiniera, chopped parsley and a drizzle of Horseradish Sauce.
  9. Serve the tacos with a side of warm jus for dipping.

Giardiniera:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the carrots, celery, cauliflower, red and yellow bell peppers, garlic and onion.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, salt, sugar, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
  3. Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables and stir to combine.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a quart-sized jar and press down with a spoon to pack the vegetables.
  5. Cover the jar tightly with a lid and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Horseradish Sauce:

  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, horseradish, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt and pepper until well combined.
  2. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more horseradish for a spicier flavor or more sour cream for a milder flavor.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Stir the sauce again before serving.