Name: Heavenly Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria Jalisco Style
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 can Young green jackfruit (drained and rinsed); 1 cup Shredded oyster mushrooms; 1 medium Onion (chopped); 3 cloves Garlic (fresh, whole); 4 medium Roma tomatoes (roasted); 2 each Chile Ancho, Guajillo, Pasilla, Morita (adjust for heat); 1 teaspoon Spices (Allspice, Peppercorns, Cloves, Cumin, Ceylon Cinnamon) (mixed); 1 teaspoon Herbs (Marjoram, Thyme, Oregano) (mixed); 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar; 8 each Corn tortillas (fresh); 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil; 1 cup Vegetable broth (adjust for brothiness); 1 cup Vegan cheese (optional for quesabirrias)

The aroma wafts through the kitchen, evoking memories of bustling street vendors in Jalisco. I can’t help but smile, knowing that these Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria bring the heart of Mexican cuisine right to my home. Featuring a savory blend of meaty oyster mushrooms and young jackfruit, this recipe delights with a rich and spicy sauce that’s a joy to prepare. Best of all, it comes together in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering with friends. Not only are these tacos utterly delicious, but they also prove that plant-based cooking can be hearty and satisfying, easily impressing even the most dedicated meat lovers. Ready to take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey? Let’s dive into these mouthwatering tacos that redefine comfort food!

Why you’ll savor this vegan delight?

Quick Preparation: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, coming together in under an hour without compromising on flavor.

Rich, Bold Flavors: The combination of spicy chiles and aromatic spices creates a complex sauce that’s a delight to every palate.

Meaty Texture: With the use of jackfruit and oyster mushrooms, you’ll enjoy a texture that mimics traditional birria, perfect for satisfying those comfort food cravings.

Versatile Serving Options: Whether you’re making tacos or quesabirrias, this dish adapts beautifully to your preferences. Try serving with a bowl of broth for dipping—just like they do in Jalisco!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for gatherings, your friends and family will be impressed, even if they typically lean towards meat dishes. If you enjoy global flavors, don’t miss out on more excitement with recipes like Sausage Sweet Sauce or Pepper Chicken Mac.

Vegan Birria Tacos Ingredients

For the Filling

Jackfruit – Young green jackfruit in brine is essential for providing a meaty texture; be sure to drain and rinse it well to avoid brine flavor.
Oyster Mushrooms – Shredded oyster mushrooms create a satisfying, meat-like texture in the filling; feel free to experiment with other mushrooms if preferred.
Onion – Used in both the filling and sauce for enhanced flavor; yellow onion is a fine substitute if needed.
Garlic – Fresh whole garlic cloves deepen the flavor; you can adjust the amount based on your preference.

For the Sauce

Roma Tomatoes – Roasting tomatoes brings out their sweetness and acidity; you can substitute with other varieties if necessary.
Chile Ancho, Guajillo, Pasilla, Morita – These dried chiles add depth and spice; adjust the quantity for desired heat in your Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria.
Spices (Allspice, Peppercorns, Cloves, Cumin, Ceylon Cinnamon) – A blend of aromatic spices for a complex flavor; feel free to tailor based on your taste preferences.
Herbs (Marjoram, Thyme, Oregano) – Fresh herbs impart lovely herbal notes; dried herbs can be used as a substitution.
Apple Cider Vinegar – A splash of vinegar provides acidity and balances the rich sauce.

For Assembly

Corn Tortillas – Use fresh corn tortillas for that authentic texture, whether for tacos or quesabirrias.
Vegetable Oil – Necessary for sautéing the mushrooms until golden; omit for a no-oil version.
Vegetable Broth – Adds moisture and flavor; adjust to your preference for brothiness.
Vegan Cheese (optional) – Perfect for quesabirrias, it lends a creamy texture that enhances the experience.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria (Jalisco Style)

Step 1: Prepare the Jackfruit
Start by draining and rinsing the young green jackfruit to remove the brine flavor. In a medium pot, combine the jackfruit with chopped onion and a bay leaf, then cover with water. Simmer for 10 minutes over medium heat, ensuring the jackfruit becomes tender. Once done, drain the water and squeeze out any excess moisture from the jackfruit.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
To create the flavorful sauce for your Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria, begin by toasting the dried chiles (ancho, guajillo, pasilla, morita) in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes until fragrant. Next, soak the toasted chiles in boiling water for 15 minutes. While the chiles soak, roast the Roma tomatoes and chopped onion, along with whole garlic cloves, on an open flame or under a broiler until charred blackened, giving a smoked flavor.

Step 3: Blend the Sauce
Once the chiles have softened, drain them and add to a blender with the roasted tomatoes, onion, garlic, a mix of spices (allspice, peppercorns, cloves, cumin, Ceylon cinnamon), herbs (marjoram, thyme, oregano), and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Blend until you achieve a smooth and rich consistency, adding a little water if necessary to loosen the sauce. This will be the heart of your Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria.

Step 4: Cook the Filling
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shredded oyster mushrooms and sauté for about 7-10 minutes or until golden brown. Then, add the prepared jackfruit and sauté for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Pour in the blended sauce along with vegetable broth according to your preference for moisture, then simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the filling becomes thick and flavorful.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Heat corn tortillas on a griddle or skillet until they are warm and pliable. Fill each tortilla generously with the jackfruit and mushroom mixture, adding diced onion and fresh cilantro on top. Serve your Vegan Birria Tacos with a side of broth (consomé) for dipping, inviting everyone to enjoy the delicious flavors straight from Jalisco.

Step 6: Make Quesabirrias
For the quesabirrias, dip the tortillas briefly in the warm broth, then fill them with a layer of vegan cheese and the jackfruit-mushroom filling. Fold the tortillas in half and grill them on a skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Slice the quesabirrias and serve with a side of broth for an irresistible, hearty meal that will impress all.

What to Serve with Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria?

Elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments that enhance the rich and hearty flavors of these plant-based tacos.

Creamy Guacamole: The smoothness of fresh avocados complements the spicy kick of birria perfectly, creating a luscious contrast.
Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of bright lime juice adds a refreshing brightness and cuts through the richness, elevating each bite.
Fresh Pico de Gallo: This vibrant salsa made of diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro provides a crisp, refreshing texture that balances the tacos.
Corn Elote: The sweetness of grilled corn, slathered with creamy vegan sauce and sprinkled with chili powder, makes a delightful side with a smoky flavor.
Crisp Cabbage Slaw: The crunch of cabbage, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty filling and texture of the tacos.
Spicy Pickled Jalapeños: Add heat with these pickled slices, which bring a vinegary punch that pairs beautifully with the savory tacos.
Chilled Cerveza: A refreshing beer or even a citrusy mocktail can cleanse your palate and enhance the culinary experience.
Rich Consomé: Serve with a bowl of warm, seasoned broth for dipping, just like they do in Jalisco—a cozy way to enjoy every last bit!

Storage Tips for Vegan Birria Tacos

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps your Vegan Birria Tacos fresh and flavorful, ready for a quick meal.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the filling and tortillas separately in airtight containers for up to 6 months for the best quality.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm, adding a splash of vegetable broth to keep them moist.

Assembly Before Serving: If preparing in advance, assemble the tacos right before serving to maintain the perfect texture of the tortillas.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can make the rich, flavorful sauce up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant taste. The jackfruit and mushroom filling can also be prepared ahead of time and stored for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the filling in a skillet, warm the tortillas, and assemble your tacos or quesabirrias. This preparation ensures that your meal tastes just as delicious and saves you valuable cooking time!

Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Vegan Birria Tacos to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas to keep this dish gluten-free while still enjoying all the delicious flavors.
Jackfruit Only: Substitute the mushrooms entirely with additional jackfruit for a heartier texture and its signature sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra punch of heat that will thrill spice lovers.
No-Oil Option: Sauté your vegetables in vegetable broth instead of oil for a healthier, no-oil version that doesn’t compromise flavor.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different types of vegan cheese, like cashew-based or almond cheese, to elevate your quesabirrias with a creamy touch.
Mushroom Medley: Mix in other types of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, for a deeper umami flavor and varied texture.
Veggie Booster: Add finely diced bell peppers or zucchini to the filling for extra nutrients and a delightful crunch.
Herbial Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, into the mixture for an aromatic freshness that brightens each bite.

For more exciting meal ideas, explore Garlic Chilli Noodles or indulge in Honey Sriracha Ground for another flavorful experience!

Expert Tips for Vegan Birria Tacos

Quality Ingredients: Choose vibrant, fresh chiles and ripe tomatoes to ensure a flavorful sauce that enhances your Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria.
Proper Jackfruit Prep: Make sure to drain and rinse your jackfruit thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent any brine flavor from overpowering your filling.
Simmer for Flavor: Allow the filling to simmer well after adding the sauce and broth. This ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, making your dish truly irresistible.
Balance Your Spices: Toast spices until they’re fragrant but not burnt. Burning can lead to bitterness, compromising the richness of your Vegan Birria Tacos.
Customize Your Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the types and amounts of chiles based on your heat preference. It’s all about personal taste and making these tacos your own!

Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe jackfruit for this recipe?
When selecting jackfruit, look for young green jackfruit in brine, which is essential for that meaty texture. Ensure it is firm and has no dark spots, as these can indicate overripeness. Drain and rinse thoroughly before using to remove excess brine flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover Vegan Birria Tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to save them for a longer time, freeze the filling and tortillas separately in airtight containers for up to 6 months to ensure quality.

Can I freeze Vegan Birria Tacos?
Absolutely! To freeze, first cool the filling completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. You can freeze it for up to 6 months. For the tortillas, stack them with parchment paper in between and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What if the sauce is too spicy for my taste?
If you find the sauce too spicy, you can add more roasted tomatoes to balance the heat and bring sweetness. Another option is to mix in some coconut milk or a touch of maple syrup to offset the spice level. Tasting as you go is key to achieving your desired flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, this Vegan Birria Tacos and Quesabirria recipe is plant-based and gluten-free if you use corn tortillas. Keep in mind any allergies to the specific ingredients, such as mushrooms or certain spices, and feel free to make substitutions based on dietary needs.

What if my jackfruit doesn’t shred easily?
If your jackfruit isn’t shredding well, it may need more cooking time. Ensure it’s cooked until tender—if it’s still tough after simmering for 10 minutes, give it another few minutes. Once it’s adequately heated, it should pull apart with a fork easily, creating that perfect texture for your tacos.