Mexican Ramen with Birria - knedir Recipes

This Mexican Ramen with Birria brings together the flavors of traditional Mexican birria and the comforting elements of a ramen dish. The beef is tender and juicy, absorbing all the aromatic spices from the rich, flavorful broth. Paired with fresh cilantro, crunchy radishes, and a squeeze of lime, this dish is a symphony of flavors that will warm you from the inside out.

With its deep and smoky flavors from the dried chilies and the complexity of the beef broth, this dish is the perfect fusion of Mexican comfort food and Japanese ramen. Serve it on a chilly day to impress your family and friends or as a special treat for yourself. The bright garnishes add a beautiful contrast to the dark, rich broth, making it as visually pleasing as it is delicious.

Full Recipe:

2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
1 onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves, smashed
3 dried guajillo chilies, seeds removed
2 dried ancho chilies, seeds removed
2 dried pasilla chilies, seeds removed
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground oregano
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 cups beef broth
4 cups water
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 ounces ramen noodles
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Sliced radishes (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

In a large pot, add the beef chuck roast, onion, garlic, and bay leaves. Fill the pot with water, covering the beef.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 2 hours or until the beef is tender and can be shredded easily. Skim off any foam that forms.
While the beef is cooking, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the dried chilies and toast them for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant. Remove from the skillet and soak the chilies in warm water for 10 minutes.
Blend the soaked chilies, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, cloves, and vinegar in a blender until smooth.
After the beef has cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it with a fork. Set aside.
In the same pot, heat olive oil and sauté the tomato paste for 2 minutes. Add the blended chili paste and stir. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for another 20 minutes to develop the flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and divide between bowls.
Ladle the birria broth over the noodles and top with shredded beef, cilantro, radishes, and lime wedges.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Kcal: 485 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

History and Origin

The origin of birria dates back to the state of Jalisco in western Mexico, where it was traditionally made as a celebratory dish. Originally, birria was a goat stew, made with a variety of aromatic chilies and spices. Over time, different regions of Mexico adapted the dish, using beef or lamb instead of goat. The dish is typically served during special occasions, particularly around festive celebrations such as weddings, birthdays, or holidays.

Ramen, on the other hand, originates from Japan, where it has become a beloved comfort food. Although ramen was first introduced to Japan from China in the late 19th century, it quickly evolved into a distinctly Japanese dish. Its versatility and deep umami flavor have made it a staple of Japanese cuisine, with countless regional variations.

The idea of combining Mexican birria with ramen is a relatively modern take on both dishes, bridging two beloved cuisines into one delicious bowl. It plays on the cultural trend of fusion cuisine, where elements from different culinary traditions come together to create something new. This fusion dish captures the essence of both Mexican and Japanese culinary traditions while offering a fresh, innovative twist on both.

Variations and Adaptations

While the concept of combining ramen and birria is relatively new, it offers a variety of ways to make the dish your own. The most obvious variation is the type of meat used for the birria. Traditionally, birria is made with beef, goat, or lamb, but you can substitute with chicken for a lighter version, or even go fully plant-based by using a meat substitute such as jackfruit or soy protein. The richness of the broth remains, but the protein changes the overall flavor and texture.

In terms of the ramen noodles themselves, many ramen recipes call for fresh noodles, but you can easily use dried noodles if that’s what you have on hand. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade ramen noodles are an option, although they require a bit more effort.

Another variation might involve the addition of toppings. While this recipe uses cilantro, radishes, and lime as garnishes, you could also experiment with avocado, pickled onions, or a dash of chili oil for some extra heat. Some people enjoy a more decadent version with melted cheese, while others prefer to keep it lighter and fresher.

The broth is also an area where variations can take place. Some recipes might call for adding a splash of tomato paste to deepen the flavor of the broth, or even a bit of chocolate to enhance the richness, which is a nod to the traditional mole sauces found in Mexican cuisine.

Nutritional Information

Mexican Ramen with Birria packs a punch in terms of both flavor and nutrition. The beef in the birria is an excellent source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins such as B12. When paired with the ramen noodles, the dish offers a good balance of carbohydrates and protein, making it a hearty meal that keeps you full and satisfied.

In terms of calories, a single serving of this dish can be between 450-500 kcal, depending on the portion size and the type of meat used. The ramen noodles themselves are typically the highest source of carbohydrates, so if you’re looking to lower the carb count, you can adjust the amount of noodles or swap them out for a lower-carb alternative like zucchini noodles.

The rich broth provides a decent amount of fat, primarily from the beef, and contributes to the deep, satisfying flavor. The spices and herbs used in the birria—such as cumin, oregano, and cinnamon—not only add flavor but can also offer health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the fresh cilantro, radishes, and lime provide a boost of vitamins and antioxidants, while also adding some crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the dish.

While this dish is relatively balanced in terms of macronutrients, it’s also important to be mindful of sodium content. Depending on the broth and seasonings used, the sodium levels can add up, so you may want to adjust salt usage or opt for low-sodium beef broth if you’re watching your sodium intake.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Mexican Ramen with Birria is a filling dish on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of sides to make for a more complete meal. Consider serving the ramen with a side of warm, homemade tortillas to soak up the rich broth, or a simple Mexican street corn (elote) for a more authentic touch. A fresh, tangy cucumber salad with a sprinkle of chili powder and lime is a great contrast to the heat of the birria, providing some crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the ramen.

For a light appetizer, you could serve a classic guacamole with crispy tortilla chips, or perhaps a refreshing salsa fresca made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a hint of lime. These sides can add different textures and flavors that complement the savory and spicy notes of the birria ramen.

In terms of beverages, Mexican Ramen with Birria pairs well with cold, refreshing drinks such as a glass of agua fresca or a citrusy margarita. If you’re in the mood for something non-alcoholic, a chilled Mexican cola or lime-infused sparkling water would be an excellent choice to cleanse the palate between bites.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Mexican Ramen with Birria turns out perfect every time, here are a few expert tips:

Slow cook the beef: To achieve the tender, fall-apart texture of the beef, it’s important to cook it low and slow. If you have time, consider using a slow cooker or pressure cooker for even better results.
Don’t skip the chili toasting step: Toasting the dried chilies before blending them releases their natural oils, which enhances their flavor and helps deepen the color of the broth.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier ramen, you can always add more chili or a dash of hot sauce to the broth. Conversely, if you’re not a fan of heat, remove the seeds from the chilies for a milder flavor.
Taste and adjust the broth: Make sure to taste the broth before serving. Depending on your preferences, you may want to add a bit more salt, vinegar, or even a dash of sugar to balance out the flavors.

Potential Health Benefits

Mexican Ramen with Birria, while indulgent, does offer some potential health benefits due to the nutritional profile of its ingredients. The beef provides a high-quality protein source, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The chili peppers used in birria are rich in capsaicin, a compound known to have anti-inflammatory properties and promote metabolism. The fresh cilantro and radishes provide antioxidants and vitamin C, which can support immune function and overall wellness. Additionally, the spices used—such as cinnamon and cumin—are known for their digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits.

While the dish is relatively high in fat due to the beef and broth, it is important to remember that this is a wholesome source of fat. If you’re looking to make it even healthier, you can always adjust the amount of beef and noodles and incorporate more vegetables to balance the dish further.

Conclusion

Mexican Ramen with Birria is a truly unique dish that offers the best of both Mexican and Japanese culinary worlds. The hearty, flavorful broth, tender beef, and satisfying noodles make it the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming you up on a cold day or impressing guests with something truly special. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or ramen, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. The rich, spicy broth combined with the freshness of garnishes and tender beef is a flavor explosion that will keep you coming back for more.

So, the next time you’re looking for a comforting meal with a twist, give Mexican Ramen with Birria a try—you won’t be disappointed!