Dip corn tortillas into the fatty surface of a slow-cooked meat and bean broth, then fry them with Mexican cheese and shredded meat. Serve with a side of the remaining broth as a dipping consommé.
The secret to the signature red, crispy exterior is using the rendered fat from the broth to fry the tortilla.
Preparing the Consommé
Roast tomatoes and garlic until charred, then mash them with rock salt and coriander in a mortar and pestle. Simmer this mixture with bean broth, meat, and a pinch of epazote, blending a small portion of the beans and broth to thicken the soup. This creates the deep, savory liquid used both as a filling and a dipping sauce.
The Frying Technique
Carefully dip a corn tortilla into the top layer of the broth where the fat has settled. Heat a pan over medium heat and fry the tortilla until golden, then add a shredded Mexican cheese mix—such as white cheddar, mozzarella, and asiago—and the tender, shredded meat. Fold the tortilla over and cook until the cheese is fully melted and the shell is crisp.
Serving and Garnishing
Ladle the remaining hot broth into small bowls and top with diced onion, sliced radish, and a squeeze of lime for acidity. Serve the crispy tacos alongside the broth, allowing the juices to soften the corn shell upon dipping. This combination of a rich, fatty dip and a crisp tortilla provides the authentic textural contrast required for the dish.
Why Authentic Masa Matters
Customers at our Kensington tortilleria often ask how to achieve the perfect crunch without the tortilla breaking; this is where nixtmalization is critical. When we stone-grind our corn fresh each day rather than using instant masa harina, the corn grains retain a structural integrity that allows them to absorb broth fat without becoming soggy. Flour tortillas lack this property and will fail to crisp properly in the pan.
We recommend trying this with this
To add a layer of bold, traditional heat to your quesabirria, we recommend serving them with our authentic salsas. The medium heat of the Roja or the mild, smoky profile of the Chipotle complements the richness of the meat broth.
Where to find them in Australia
Our authentic nixtamal corn tortillas are available for purchase online or at our store. They are also stocked by selected independent grocers across Australia to ensure you have access to real masa.
