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A quick 15‑minute Mexican‑inspired taco that packs 20 g of protein per taco. Seasoned 93/7 lean ground beef is smashed, mashed to a pebbly texture, and combined with a spicy, aromatic dipping broth. Crispy corn tortillas are folded over melted Jack cheese and the beef, then served with the fresh broth, diced onion and cilantro for a satisfying high‑protein meal.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
Quesabiria tacos blend the street‑food tradition of quesadillas with the rich, broth‑laden birria from Jalisco. Historically, birria was a slow‑cooked goat stew, and the dipping broth version became popular as a quick, flavorful snack in modern Mexican street markets.
In Jalisco, birria broth is made with goat or beef and lots of rendered fat, while in other regions like Michoacán it may include pork and a different blend of chilies. The spicy dipping broth in this recipe uses lean beef broth and smoked paprika for a lighter, high‑protein twist.
Traditionally, the crispy cheese‑filled tortilla is served on a plate with a small bowl of steaming birria broth, topped with chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Diners dip each bite into the broth for a burst of flavor.
Quesabiria tacos are popular as a late‑night snack after festivals, at fairs, and during weekend street‑food gatherings. They’re also a favorite comfort food for family movie nights because they’re quick to make and satisfying.
Authentic versions use goat or beef birria broth, corn tortillas, and Oaxaca or Chihuahua cheese. Acceptable substitutes include lean beef broth for a healthier version, Jack cheese for easy melting, and store‑bought taco seasoning when time is limited.
Common errors include adding the beef to a cold pan (no crust), over‑mixing the meat (loss of pebbly texture), dumping all the broth at once (over‑saucing), and not letting the cheese spill over the edges before flipping, which reduces crunch.
The mini potato masher efficiently creates uniformly small, pebble‑like pieces, increasing surface area for seasoning and moisture retention. A fork can leave larger clumps and uneven texture.
Yes, the seasoned beef can be cooked up to a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore juiciness before assembling the tacos.
The beef should have a deep brown crust on the bottom, be broken into fine, pebble‑size bits, and appear glossy from the added broth. It should feel moist but not soggy.
The YouTube channel Cook Well w/ Ethan Chlebowski focuses on high‑protein, quick‑prep meals that balance flavor with nutrition, often featuring lean meats, smart seasoning techniques, and practical kitchen hacks for home cooks.
Ethan emphasizes protein density and time efficiency, using lean cuts and streamlined four‑step methods, whereas many Mexican cooking channels focus on traditional, slower‑cooked preparations. His style blends classic flavors with modern fitness‑friendly goals.
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