Birria — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Birria photo

Listonic Team

March 10, 2025

Birria, a traditional Mexican dish from Jalisco, is celebrated for its rich flavors and nutritional benefits, often featuring tender meat that provides essential protein and vitamins. As you explore this culinary delight, discover tips for selecting the best ingredients and storing leftovers to preserve its deliciousness and healthful qualities.

Nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of birria, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 130 kcal

Nutrients per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs3 g1.09%
Fiber1 g3.57%
Sugars1 g2%
Glycemic Index30 -
Protein11 g22%
Sodium380 mg16.52%
Total Fat5 6.41%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Key takeaways

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When shopping for birria, choose cuts of meat that have good marbling for tenderness and flavor, and look for fresh herbs and spices to enhance the dish's rich taste.
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Birria, a traditional Mexican dish originally made with goat meat, is celebrated for its rich, complex flavors, often enhanced by a blend of spices and slow-cooking techniques; it has recently gained popularity as a taco filling, especially when served with a side of its savory broth for dipping.
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To preserve the rich flavors of birria, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions, ensuring it's well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
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Birria, a traditional Mexican dish, originally comes from the state of Jalisco and was traditionally made with goat meat, though beef is now commonly used.

Health benefits

Discover the health benefits of birria, a flavorful dish rich in protein and essential nutrients that can enhance your overall wellness while satisfying your taste buds.
  • High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, making it a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
  • Rich in vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, iron, and zinc, which are important for energy production and immune function.
  • Contains healthy fats from the meat and broth, which can provide sustained energy and support heart health when consumed in moderation.
  • Boosts hydration due to its broth base, helping to keep the body hydrated while also providing electrolytes.

Health risks

Understand the potential health risks associated with birria.
  • High saturated fat content which can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
  • Potential for foodborne illnesses if not prepared or stored properly, leading to risks such as salmonella or E. coli infections.
  • High sodium levels which can lead to hypertension and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to certain ingredients, such as spices or meat types used in birria.
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How to choose birria

When choosing birria, look for options that feature tender, well-marinated meat, typically beef or goat, that has been slow-cooked to perfection. The broth should be rich and flavorful, with a deep red hue that indicates the use of quality chiles and spices.

Avoid birria that appears overly greasy or lacks depth in flavor, as these can be signs of poor preparation. Additionally, be cautious of birria that has a watery consistency, as this can indicate a lack of proper cooking techniques, which may compromise the dish's authentic taste and texture.

How to store birria

To properly store birria, it’s essential to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its rich flavors and prevent spoilage. Refrigeration is highly recommended for short-term storage, ideally within 3-4 days after preparation. Make sure to let the birria cool to room temperature before sealing it in the container to avoid condensation, which can affect its texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing birria in portion-sized containers. This method allows you to enjoy your delicious dish later without sacrificing quality. When reheating, ensure that it is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Avoid leaving birria at room temperature for extended periods, as this can promote bacterial growth and spoilage.

✅ Extra Tip

For optimal flavor, let your birria rest in the refrigerator overnight before serving, as this allows the spices to meld and intensify.

How long does it last?

Birria, a flavorful Mexican stew traditionally made with goat or beef, can last for a considerable time when stored correctly. When refrigerated, birria can remain fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, freezing birria is an excellent option; it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer without losing its delicious taste and texture. To ensure optimal freshness, store birria in an airtight container, and make sure it cools down to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheating birria thoroughly before serving is essential to enjoy its rich flavors fully.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover birria is a culinary treasure that can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes. Reheat it and serve it as a taco filling with fresh toppings like onions, cilantro, and lime for a quick meal. You can also use the tender meat in quesadillas or tortas, adding cheese for a melty, flavorful treat. If you have leftover broth, consider using it as a base for soup or stew, enriching your dish with its deep, savory flavors. For a creative twist, shred the meat and incorporate it into enchiladas or chili, giving those dishes a unique birria flair. Additionally, you can freeze the leftovers in portion-sized containers to enjoy later, ensuring that the rich taste of birria is just a quick reheat away.

👨‍⚕️️ Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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