Prepare for a culinary adventure that fuses the beloved comfort of a grilled cheese with the bold, savory depths of authentic Mexican birria. This isn't your average lunchtime sandwich; we're talking tender, slow-cooked beef birria, simmered in a rich, aromatic consommé, then layered between perfectly toasted bread and melted cheese. Imagine the explosion of flavors: the spicy, slightly tangy birria, the gooey, stretchy cheese, and the satisfying crunch of the bread – all working in perfect harmony. This recipe elevates the humble grilled cheese to a whole new level, transforming it into a truly unforgettable meal.
Forget everything you thought you knew about grilled cheese sandwiches. This Disneyland-inspired creation is a masterpiece of flavor and texture, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step process of creating your own unforgettable Beef Birria Toasted Cheese Sandwich.
Tools Needed
- Small saucepan
- Blender
- Pressure cooker
- Comal
Ingredients
- New Mexico Chile pods: 7
- Ancho Chile: 5
- Chile de Arbol: 5
- Bay leaves: 2
- Cinnamon stick: a little piece
- Whole cloves: 8
- Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin seeds: 1/2 teaspoon
- Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
- Peppercorns: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground ginger: 1/4 teaspoon
- Garlic cloves: 5
- Chuck roast: 3 pounds
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Water or beef broth: 4 cups
- Roma tomato: 1
- Queso Oaxaca
- Pepper Jack cheese
- Sourdough bread: 2
- Butter
- Onion
- Cilantro
- Salsa verde
- Lime juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Birria
- Boil the New Mexico Chile pods, Ancho Chile, and Chile de Arbol in water until they are soft.
- Drain the water and set aside.
- bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves, oregano, cumin, thyme, peppercorns, and ginger.
- Add the crushed spices, garlic cloves, and the boiled chiles to a blender. Add 4 cups of water or beef broth and blend until smooth to create the Adobo sauce.
- Pat dry the chuck roast, cut it in half, and season it with salt and pepper.
- In a pressure cooker set to saute, sear the chuck roast on both sides in oil.
- Scrape the bottom of the pot and add the Adobo sauce, return the meat, adding more water or broth if necessary. Add a Roma tomato, and two bay leaves.
- Cover and cook in the pressure cooker on the meat/stew setting for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Once the pressure cooker is done, carefully release the steam and shred the cooked beef.
- Taste and season the shredded beef with salt if needed. Add a little bit of the cooking liquid (consomé).
Step 2. Prepare the Cheese Filling
- Shred the queso Oaxaca and pepper Jack cheese.
Step 3. Assemble and Grill the Cheese
- Butter a comal and place it over medium-low heat. Place one slice of sourdough bread on the comal and top with Queso Oaxaca, shredded birria, and onions, cilantro, and salsa verde.
- Top with pepper jack cheese and another slice of bread. Press down and cook until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown, flipping occasionally.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately, dipping into the remaining consomé with lime juice, onion, and cilantro.
Read more: Grilled Mexican Octopus Recipe: A Sakora Gastronomy Delight
Tips
- Make sure to clean the chiles before using them.
- Pat the meat dry before seasoning and searing for better browning.
- Be careful when releasing the steam from the pressure cooker.
- Enjoy the sandwich as soon as it's cooked for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-800
- Fat: 40-60g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-made birria for this recipe?
Yes! To save time, feel free to use store-bought birria. Just ensure it's well-seasoned and flavorful.
2. What kind of cheese melts best in this sandwich?
Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, or a blend of Mexican cheeses work wonderfully. They melt beautifully and complement the birria's flavor.
So there you have it – your very own Disneyland-inspired Beef Birria Grilled Cheese! This recipe is a delightful fusion of comfort food and exciting flavors, perfect for a special occasion or a truly satisfying weeknight meal. Enjoy the magic of this unforgettable sandwich!