If you’re craving bold, rich flavors with a unique twist, our Birria Turkey recipe is a must-try. Inspired by the traditional Mexican dish, this version swaps the usual beef or goat for tender turkey, creating a lighter yet equally flavorful take on a classic. It’s the perfect way to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress guests with something unexpected.
Birria has roots in Jalisco, Mexico, where it’s often enjoyed as tacos or a comforting stew. By using turkey, we add a leaner protein while keeping all the smoky, spicy, and savory notes that make birria so irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of slow-cooked meals or just love experimenting with new flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Birria Turkey Recipe
Transform your kitchen into a culinary haven with this bold and flavorful Birria Turkey recipe. By swapping traditional proteins like beef or goat for lean turkey, we’re crafting a dish that’s both lighter and just as satisfying. Follow these precise steps to infuse your turkey with the smoky, spicy depth characteristic of Mexican birria.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds turkey thighs or breast, bone-in (skin removed for leaner preparation)
- 5 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 3 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 2 dried chipotle chiles for smoky heat
- 3 Roma tomatoes, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 large white onion, quartered
- 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 bay leaves
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 4 tablespoons neutral oil (like vegetable or avocado oil)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Equipment Needed
| Equipment | Use |
|---|---|
| Large Dutch oven | Slow simmering the turkey and sauce |
| Blender | Pureeing the chiles and tomato mixture |
| Fine mesh strainer | Straining the sauce for a smooth texture |
| Tongs | Handling turkey pieces |
| Cutting board and knife | Prepping vegetables and turkey |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chile Sauce
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast the guajillo, ancho, and chipotle chiles for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Avoid burning.
- Place the toasted chiles in a bowl and cover with hot water. Soak for 10 minutes until softened.
- In the same skillet, char the quarter onions, Roma tomatoes, and garlic cloves until slightly blackened.
- Transfer the softened chiles, charred vegetables, and 2 cups of broth to a blender. Add the apple cider vinegar, cumin, paprika, oregano, cinnamon, and ground cloves. Blend into a smooth sauce.
- Use a fine mesh strainer to strain the sauce for a velvety texture. Set aside.
2. Sear the Turkey
- Pat the turkey thighs or breast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the neutral oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the turkey and set aside.
3. Combine and Simmer
- In the same Dutch oven, pour in the prepared chile sauce. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon.
- Return the turkey pieces to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Add the bay leaves and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the turkey cook gently for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreddable. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Shred the Turkey
- Once the turkey is fork-tender, remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board.
- Use two forks to shred the turkey into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded turkey to the pot, mixing it well with the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Ladle the Birria Turkey into bowls for a hearty stew. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of lime juice.
- For tacos, warm corn tortillas and fill them with shredded birria turkey. Add diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
- Dip warm tortillas into the rich broth for birria-style tacos that are absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
Creating this Birria Turkey recipe requires a handful of flavorful ingredients broken into three essential components: the turkey, the richly spiced birria sauce, and the fresh garnishes. Let’s ensure everything is prepped and ready.
For The Turkey
- 2 pounds of turkey thighs or breast, bone-in and skinless
- 1 tablespoon of kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of neutral oil (like canola or vegetable oil)
For The Birria Sauce
- 4 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 2 dried chile de árbol, stems and seeds removed (adjust for spice level)
- 4 Roma tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium white onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 4 cups of chicken or turkey broth
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon of sugar for balancing the heat
For The Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced white onion
- Fresh lime wedges
- Warm corn tortillas
- Optional: Crumbled cotija cheese or sliced avocado for extra richness
Tools And Equipment
To create the perfect Birria Turkey, having the right tools and equipment is essential. These items ensure the preparation process is smooth and the final dish achieves its rich, bold flavors. Below is a breakdown of the key tools you’ll need:
Essential Tools
- Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: This is crucial for searing the turkey and simmering the birria sauce. A Dutch oven helps evenly distribute heat, maintaining the low and slow cooking required for tender turkey and a deeply flavored sauce.
- Blender: A high-powered blender is necessary to puree the chile sauce to a smooth, velvety texture that coats the turkey beautifully. If you prefer, you can also use an immersion blender.
- Tongs: To handle the turkey pieces safely during searing and transfer them without breaking.
- Fine-mesh strainer: Straining the chile sauce ensures a silky, lump-free consistency before combining it with the meat.
- Large mixing bowl: Useful for soaking the dried chiles and preparing marinade ingredients.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Precision in spice measurements is key to maintaining the balance of smoky and bold flavors.
Optional but Helpful Tools
- Kitchen shears: Perfect for trimming any excess fat from the turkey or snipping dried chile stems.
- Food thermometer: Helps confirm the turkey is cooked to the recommended internal temperature of 165°F.
- Skimmer or ladle: Ideal for skimming the surface of the birria sauce during simmering for excess fat or foam.
Tools and Their Purposes at a Glance
Here’s a quick reference table of the tools and their specific purposes in the recipe:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dutch oven | Searing turkey, simmering the sauce |
| Blender | Pureeing chiles into a smooth sauce |
| Tongs | Safely handling turkey during cooking |
| Fine-mesh strainer | Straining sauce for silky texture |
| Large mixing bowl | Preparing marinade and soaking chiles |
| Measuring tools | Ensuring accuracy of spices and ingredients |
| Kitchen shears | Trimming turkey and cleaning dried chiles |
| Food thermometer | Checking turkey’s internal temperature |
| Skimmer/ladle | Removing excess fat or foam from the sauce |
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a flavor-packed Birria Turkey that’s perfect for any occasion. From preparing the turkey to simmering it in the rich birria sauce, here’s how we do it.
Prep The Turkey
- Start with 2 pounds of bone-in, skinless turkey thighs or breast. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season generously with 1 tablespoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper on all sides. Set the turkey aside while we prepare the sauce.
Make The Birria Sauce
- Prepare the chiles:
- Remove the stems and seeds from 4 dried guajillo chiles, 2 dried ancho chiles, and 2 dried chipotle chiles.
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast the chiles for 30 seconds on each side until aromatic.
- Rehydrate chiles:
- Place the toasted chiles in a bowl. Cover with 1 cup of boiling water and let them soak for 15 minutes.
- Roast the aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add 1 large tomato (quartered), ½ large onion (quartered), and 5 garlic cloves (unpeeled). Cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly charred.
- Blend the sauce:
- Transfer the rehydrated chiles, roasted aromatics, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, and 2 cups of chicken or turkey broth to a high-powered blender.
- Blend on high until the mixture becomes smooth. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh strainer for a silky texture.
Marinate The Turkey
- Place the seasoned turkey pieces into a large mixing bowl or a zip-top bag.
- Pour the birria sauce over the turkey, making sure every surface is well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate to marinate for at least 2 hours, or for a deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
Cook The Turkey
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the marinated turkey pieces for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Work in batches if necessary.
- Once seared, return all turkey pieces to the Dutch oven. Pour any remaining marinade over the meat.
- Add 1 extra cup of chicken or turkey broth to the pot. Cover with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
- Braise for 2½ to 3 hours, or until the turkey is tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove the turkey from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded turkey to the sauce and stir to combine.
- Serve as a hearty stew or use the filling for tacos paired with warm corn tortillas, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Birria Turkey, the possibilities are both delicious and versatile. This savory and deeply flavorful dish shines on its own or as part of various meals. Below are some of our favorite ways to serve it, guaranteeing a crowd-pleasing experience.
1. Birria Tacos
One of the most popular ways to enjoy Birria Turkey is as tacos. Here’s how:
- Warm up corn tortillas using a griddle or skillet until pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with the tender, shredded birria turkey.
- Top with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
- For extra indulgence, dip the taco in the rich birria broth (consomé) before eating.
2. Birria Quesadillas
Transform your birria turkey into melty, cheesy quesadillas:
- Spread shredded cheese like Oaxaca or Monterey Jack on half of a tortilla.
- Add a generous layer of the shredded birria turkey.
- Fold the tortilla in half and grill until golden and the cheese is melted.
- Serve with a side of birria broth for dipping.
3. Birria Ramen
Fuse Mexican and Japanese flavors by preparing Birria Ramen:
- Cook a package of ramen noodles according to instructions.
- Replace regular broth with the spiced birria consomé.
- Add the shredded turkey to the noodles and garnish with cilantro, lime, and sliced onions.
4. Classic Birria Stew
If you prefer keeping it traditional, serve Birria Turkey as a comforting stew:
- Ladle the turkey and consomé into bowls.
- Garnish generously with onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.
- Pair with warm corn tortillas on the side for dipping and scooping.
5. Loaded Nachos
Take your nachos up a notch with this fun twist:
- Spread a layer of tortilla chips on an oven-safe dish.
- Top with birria turkey, shredded cheese, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes.
- Bake at 375°F until the cheese melts.
- Drizzle with crema and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Garnishing Tips
Always keep the garnishes fresh and vibrant to elevate the presentation and flavors. A combination of diced onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and optionally sliced radishes can make all the difference.
Suggested Pairings
Here’s a quick table outlining ideal sides and drinks for this birria turkey recipe:
| Side Dish | Drink Pairing |
|---|---|
| Mexican Rice | Horchata or Agua Fresca |
| Refried Beans | Tamarind Margarita |
| Grilled Street Corn | Michelada or Lager |
| Pickled Vegetables | Sparkling Water with Lime |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Birria Turkey ahead of time can save us precious moments on busy days while ensuring a flavor-packed, ready-to-go meal. This dish benefits from resting time, allowing the bold, smoky, and spicy flavors to deepen. Follow these steps to make our birria turkey in advance:
1. Make the Birria Sauce in Advance
We can prepare the luscious birria sauce up to 3 days ahead.
- After blending the sauce smooth, let it cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Before use, reheat the sauce gently in a saucepan until warmed through.
Pro Tip: The flavors of the sauce intensify as it rests in the fridge, making it even more flavorful!
2. Marinate the Turkey Overnight
For the most tender and flavorful turkey, we recommend marinating it in the birria sauce.
- Coat the raw turkey thoroughly with the cooled sauce.
- Place the turkey in a resealable plastic bag or a covered dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or, preferably, overnight.
- The longer marination time allows the spices and chiles to penetrate the meat deeply.
3. Cook and Store the Turkey
We can cook the turkey up to 2 days in advance and store it properly.
- Follow the recipe instruction for braising the turkey in the oven until tender.
- Once cooked, let the turkey cool to room temperature.
- Store the turkey with its sauce in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavors.
| Cooking Step | Storage Information |
|---|---|
| Cooked Turkey | Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days |
| Birria Sauce | Refrigerate separately for up to 3 days |
4. Reheat Before Serving
Reheat the turkey and sauce when ready to serve:
- Transfer everything to a Dutch oven or deep skillet.
- Heat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Add a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
Make-Ahead Serving Tip: The birria turkey reheats wonderfully and can be served for multiple meals like tacos, ramen, or nachos, making it incredibly versatile!
Tips For Success
Achieving the perfect Birria Turkey involves a combination of proper techniques and attention to detail. To enhance the flavors, texture, and overall experience of this dish, we’ve compiled these key tips to ensure your cooking process is seamless and your results are always exceptional.
Choosing The Best Turkey Cut
- Opt for bone-in, skinless turkey thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness. Thighs stay moist during long braises, making them ideal for this dish.
- If using turkey breast, be mindful of cooking time as it can dry out more quickly. A food thermometer ensures perfectly cooked meat.
Mastering The Birria Sauce
- Always toast the dried chiles in a dry skillet before rehydrating them. This step releases their smoky, earthy flavor.
- Allow the chiles to soak in hot water for at least 10 minutes to soften fully. This ensures a silky sauce when blended.
- Use a high-powered blender and, for an ultra-smooth finish, strain the sauce through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bits.
Marination Makes a Difference
- Marinate the turkey for at least 2 hours or overnight in the birria sauce. The longer marination enhances the depth of flavors and results in tender, juicy meat.
- Always cover and refrigerate the marinated turkey to maintain freshness and allow the flavors to meld.
Perfect Braising
- A Dutch oven is the preferred equipment for braising, as it distributes heat evenly and retains moisture throughout cooking.
- Maintain a slow and steady braise at a temperature of 325°F (163°C) in the oven, ensuring the turkey becomes tender without overcooking.
Shredding Like a Pro
- Let the turkey rest for at least 10-15 minutes before shredding. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
- Use two forks to pull apart the turkey into bite-sized pieces, then mix it thoroughly with the sauce before serving.
Garnishes and Serving for Elevated Flavor
- Garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced onion, and lime wedges are not optional—they add brightness and balance to the rich flavors.
- Serve with warm corn tortillas or crispy fried tortillas for tacos, or pair with a side of Mexican rice or elote for a full meal.
Reheating Without Drying Out
- Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency and prevent dryness.
- Always reheat only the portion you’ll eat to preserve freshness for future servings.
Storage Recommendations
| Storage Method | How To | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Store in an airtight container with sauce to prevent drying. | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Freeze in a freezer-safe airtight container. Separate into portions for convenience. | Up to 3 months |
By following these simple but effective tips, we can ensure that our Birria Turkey turns out tender, flavorful, and utterly satisfying every time.
Conclusion
Birria Turkey is a delicious way to bring bold Mexican flavors to your table with a leaner protein option. Its versatility lets us enjoy it in tacos, stews, or even creative dishes like birria ramen or nachos. By following the steps and tips shared, we can create a dish that’s rich, tender, and full of vibrant flavors.
Whether we’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or an impressive spread for guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With a little planning and the right ingredients, Birria Turkey can easily become a favorite in our recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Birria Turkey?
Birria Turkey is a lighter version of the traditional Mexican birria dish, replacing beef or goat with turkey. It retains the smoky, spicy flavors of traditional birria, making it a delicious yet leaner option for tacos, stew, or other dishes.
Why use turkey instead of beef or goat?
Turkey is a leaner protein than beef or goat, making it a healthier choice while still delivering bold and rich birria flavors. It’s perfect for those seeking a flavorful but lighter dish.
What ingredients do I need to make Birria Turkey?
You’ll need turkey thighs or breast, dried chiles, tomatoes, garlic, onion, spices, and broth. Fresh garnishes like cilantro, onion, lime, and tortillas are recommended for serving.
Can I marinate the turkey in advance?
Yes, marinating the turkey for at least two hours or overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, enhancing the dish’s richness and tenderness.
What is the best cut of turkey to use?
Bone-in, skinless turkey thighs are recommended because they remain tender and flavorful during the braising process. Turkey breast can also work as a leaner option.
How do I serve Birria Turkey?
Birria Turkey can be served as tacos, a hearty stew, quesadillas, birria ramen, or loaded nachos. Garnish with fresh cilantro, onion, and lime for added flavor.
Can I prepare Birria Turkey ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the birria sauce up to three days in advance, marinate the turkey overnight, and store cooked turkey in the fridge for up to two days.
What equipment will I need to make this recipe?
A Dutch oven for even cooking, a blender for making the sauce smooth, tongs for handling the turkey, and a fine-mesh strainer for a silky sauce texture are essential.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze Birria Turkey?
Yes, Birria Turkey freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
What are some good side dishes to pair with Birria Turkey?
Pair Birria Turkey with Mexican rice, grilled street corn, or a refreshing drink like horchata or a michelada for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
What tips can improve my Birria Turkey?
Toast dried chiles before rehydrating for maximum flavor, marinate overnight, and let the turkey rest before shredding. Always use fresh garnishes to enhance the dish.
Is this recipe beginner-friendly?
Yes, this recipe has detailed, step-by-step instructions, making it suitable for beginner cooks looking to try a traditional Mexican dish with a modern twist.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! You can adjust the heat by using fewer dried chiles or choosing milder varieties like guajillo chiles. Add broth or tomatoes for a more balanced flavor.
Is Birria Turkey gluten-free?
Yes, Birria Turkey is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any broth or tortillas used are certified gluten-free if needed.