Mexican Ramen with Birria

This Mexican Ramen with Birria brings together the rich, tender birria meat and flavorful broth, creating a perfect harmony with the chewy ramen noodles. The heat from the chiles and the deep, earthy flavors of the birria elevate this dish to an unforgettable level of comfort food.

The dish is as satisfying to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Garnished with fresh cilantro, crunchy radishes, and a squeeze of lime, this ramen offers a vibrant combination of textures and flavors. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening or served as the star of a dinner gathering, this dish will leave everyone craving more.

Full Recipe:

1 lb birria meat (beef or lamb)
2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cups beef broth
2 dried guajillo chiles
2 dried ancho chiles

1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf

2 cups ramen noodles
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon vinegar

2 teaspoons cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Lime wedges, for serving
2 radishes, thinly sliced (optional)
1/4 cup chopped onions, for garnish

1/2 cup cheese, shredded (optional)

Directions:

Begin by preparing the birria. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the birria meat and sear on all sides until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Add the dried guajillo and ancho chiles to the pot and cook for another minute. Add the beef broth, soy sauce, vinegar, cumin, bay leaf, and salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Add the seared birria meat back into the pot, cover, and simmer on low for 1.5–2 hours until the meat is tender and easily shreds.
While the birria is cooking, prepare the ramen noodles according to package instructions, then set aside.
Once the birria is cooked, remove the meat from the broth and shred it with a fork. Discard the bones if using lamb.

Return the shredded birria to the broth, and bring the broth to a simmer again.
To serve, divide the cooked ramen noodles into bowls, pour the birria broth over the noodles, and top with shredded birria meat. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, radishes, and chopped onions. Optionally, sprinkle with cheese.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Recipe Overview

Mexican Ramen with Birria is an exciting and flavorful fusion dish that brings together two beloved cuisines: Mexican and Japanese. The savory and spicy birria broth, traditionally made with tender beef or lamb, is infused with bold spices like guajillo chiles, cumin, and garlic, creating a hearty and flavorful base. Paired with ramen noodles, a Japanese staple, this dish marries the rich flavors of Mexican comfort food with the satisfying chewiness of ramen. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys spicy, hearty meals and is looking for a new twist on classic ramen.

History and Origin

The history of birria traces back to Jalisco, Mexico, where it has been a staple of Mexican cuisine for centuries. Birria was originally a dish made from goat meat, though in modern times, it is commonly made with beef or lamb. The dish was created by the people of Jalisco as a way to celebrate special occasions and gatherings. Over time, birria became a symbol of Mexican hospitality, often served during celebrations and holidays like weddings and Christmas.

The fusion of birria and ramen in this recipe is a relatively recent phenomenon, born from the increasing popularity of cross-cultural cooking. As Mexican cuisine gained global recognition and ramen became a universal favorite, food enthusiasts began to experiment with combining the two. This fusion has taken off, especially in trendy restaurants and home kitchens, blending the deep, spicy flavors of birria with the beloved Japanese noodle soup. The result is a dish that offers the best of both worlds—rich, comforting, and full of bold flavors.

Variations and Adaptations

While the classic birria is made with beef or lamb, the fusion recipe of Mexican Ramen with Birria offers several possibilities for variation, depending on your preferences or dietary needs. For example, some people may choose to use chicken instead of beef or lamb to make the dish lighter. This can still provide a flavorful broth, but the texture and richness of the meat will be less intense.

Another variation of this dish involves experimenting with the ramen noodles. While traditional ramen noodles are used in this recipe, you could opt for egg noodles, udon, or even rice noodles for a different texture and flavor. If you’re not fond of spicy food, you can also reduce the heat level by using fewer chiles or opting for milder ones like poblano peppers.

The birria broth itself can be adapted depending on personal taste. Some people like to add additional vegetables such as carrots or potatoes to the broth for extra texture and flavor. Additionally, certain regions of Mexico prepare birria with different seasonings, which can offer a unique twist to this dish. For instance, a few regions might add cinnamon or cloves to the broth, infusing it with a warm and aromatic undertone that would pair beautifully with ramen noodles.

Nutritional Information

Mexican Ramen with Birria is a rich and hearty dish, providing a balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Depending on the meat used (beef, lamb, or chicken), the calorie count can vary. A typical serving of beef birria with ramen might contain approximately 450 to 500 calories. This dish is an excellent source of protein, with about 30-35 grams per serving, making it a great option for those looking to build or repair muscle.

The birria broth, which is packed with spices, also provides a significant amount of vitamins and minerals. Chiles, for example, are a great source of Vitamin C, which supports immune health, while garlic and onions are packed with antioxidants that promote heart health. The ramen noodles themselves contribute carbohydrates, providing energy, though they may be high in sodium depending on the brand used.

If you’re looking to make this dish healthier, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free ramen noodles. You can also lower the fat content by choosing leaner cuts of meat or reducing the amount of oil used in preparation. Additionally, for those watching their sodium intake, homemade broth is always a better option than store-bought varieties, which tend to be high in salt.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Mexican Ramen with Birria is a meal that can stand on its own, but there are plenty of side dishes and drinks that can enhance the experience. To start, a side of freshly made corn tortillas or crusty bread is a great accompaniment, as it allows you to scoop up the flavorful broth and birria meat, making for a complete meal.

For a fresh contrast to the rich and spicy flavors of the ramen, a simple Mexican slaw made with cabbage, radishes, and a tangy lime dressing can be a refreshing addition. The crunchiness and citrusy bite of the slaw provide a nice balance to the deep flavors of the birria.

If you’re in the mood for a beverage to pair with your ramen, a cold Mexican beer such as a crisp lager or a light pilsner would complement the dish nicely. The beer’s crispness contrasts the richness of the broth and brings out the flavors of the chiles and meat. Alternatively, a refreshing agua fresca, like watermelon or cucumber-lime, would offer a cool contrast to the heat of the dish.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Mexican Ramen with Birria turns out perfectly, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, when preparing the birria broth, make sure to let it simmer for a long time. The longer the meat and spices cook, the more flavorful the broth will become. Don’t rush this process—slow cooking is key to extracting the deep, rich flavors from the meat and chiles.

Another tip is to use a good quality beef or lamb for the birria. Choose a cut with some marbling, as this will make the meat more tender and flavorful when cooked. If you’re using beef, cuts like chuck roast or brisket work wonderfully, as they become tender after slow cooking. If you prefer lamb, shoulder or shank are excellent options.

When cooking the ramen noodles, be sure not to overcook them. Ramen noodles are meant to have a firm, chewy texture, so follow the package instructions closely and stop cooking once they reach the desired consistency. It’s also a good idea to rinse the noodles after cooking to remove excess starch, which will help the broth adhere better to the noodles.

Potential Health Benefits

Mexican Ramen with Birria contains several ingredients that provide health benefits, particularly from its spices and the meat itself. The guajillo and ancho chiles used in the birria broth are packed with antioxidants and can promote healthy digestion. Chiles are also known to boost metabolism, which can aid in weight management and promote heart health.

Garlic and onions, which are key ingredients in the broth, are also rich in compounds that have been linked to improved immune function and anti-inflammatory benefits. These ingredients have been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to their health-boosting properties.

As for the meat, beef and lamb are excellent sources of protein, iron, and B-vitamins, all of which are essential for energy production and overall health. These nutrients are particularly beneficial for individuals with an active lifestyle or those looking to improve their muscle mass.

Conclusion

Mexican Ramen with Birria is a flavorful and comforting fusion dish that combines the best of Mexican and Japanese cuisines. The tender birria meat, rich and spicy broth, and chewy ramen noodles create a dish that is as satisfying as it is unique. Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal for a chilly evening or a new take on your favorite ramen, this recipe offers a delicious and comforting option that’s sure to impress. So why not give it a try? This fusion dish is a celebration of bold flavors, cultural exchange, and creativity in the kitchen!