Vegan Birria Tacos Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Delicious

Updated On: September 29, 2025

Birria tacos have taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason! Traditionally made with slow-cooked beef simmered in a rich, spicy broth, these tacos are bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.

But what if you’re vegan or just looking to enjoy this delicious dish without animal products? Enter our Vegan Birria Tacos Recipe — a plant-based twist that captures all the smoky, spicy, and comforting elements of classic birria, minus the meat.

Using hearty mushrooms, jackfruit, or even seitan, this recipe transforms familiar ingredients into something extraordinary.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is approachable, delicious, and perfect for impressing friends and family. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy traditional Mexican flavors while keeping your meal 100% plant-based.

Ready to dive into the world of vegan birria tacos? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan birria tacos recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it delivers the complex, deep flavors of authentic birria without any animal products.

The secret lies in the combination of smoked dried chilies, aromatic spices, and umami-rich mushrooms or jackfruit that mimic the texture and heartiness of meat.

Second, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling with your favorite plant-based proteins or vegetables, making it suitable for any dietary preference.

Finally, the recipe uses accessible ingredients and straightforward cooking methods, so you don’t need to be a professional chef to nail it.

Not to mention, it’s perfect for gatherings and celebrations, and pairs wonderfully with homemade tortillas or your favorite vegan sides. If you love Mexican cuisine, you’ll definitely want to try this alongside these delightful recipes: Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade and Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Dried guajillo chilies 4-5
Dried ancho chilies 2-3
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 2 tablespoons
White onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic cloves 4 large
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Vegetable broth 3 cups
Fresh oregano 1 teaspoon
Cumin powder 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Bay leaves 2
Mushrooms (cremini or portobello), sliced 500 grams (about 1 lb)
Jackfruit (young green, canned, drained and shredded) 1 can (20 oz)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Corn tortillas 12 small
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) ½ cup
Diced white onion (for garnish) ½ cup
Lime wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or pot for simmering the birria broth
  • Blender for making the chili sauce
  • Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
  • Cutting board
  • Large skillet or frying pan for sautéing mushrooms and jackfruit
  • Slotted spoon for removing chilies from hot water
  • Tongs for handling tortillas
  • Serving plates or taco stands

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dried chilies: Remove stems and seeds from the guajillo and ancho chilies. Place them in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let soak for about 20 minutes until softened.
  2. Make the birria sauce: Drain the chilies and add them to a blender along with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped onion, garlic cloves, tomato paste, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, and half of the vegetable broth. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Simmer the sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Pour in the blended sauce and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the remaining vegetable broth and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes to develop flavors.
  4. Prepare the filling: While the sauce simmers, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet. Add sliced mushrooms and shredded jackfruit. Season with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat until mushrooms release moisture and begin to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Combine filling with sauce: Remove bay leaves from the birria sauce. Pour the sauce over the cooked mushrooms and jackfruit in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Simmer together for another 10 minutes so the filling absorbs the flavors; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Warm the tortillas: Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side until pliable and slightly toasted. For extra flavor, you can dip the tortillas briefly in the birria broth before frying them lightly in a pan with a bit of oil (optional but highly recommended).
  7. Assemble the tacos: Spoon a generous amount of the birria filling onto each tortilla. Top with chopped white onion and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.
  8. Optional dipping broth: For an authentic experience, ladle some of the birria broth into small bowls to use as a dipping sauce for your tacos. This adds moisture and extra flavor with every bite.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, toast the dried chilies lightly in a dry pan before soaking. This enhances their smoky aroma.

Want a different protein? Try substituting mushrooms and jackfruit with shredded seitan, tempeh, or even lentils for a unique texture and taste.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add extra chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

For a gluten-free option, be sure to use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.

Try pairing these tacos with homemade guacamole or a fresh Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.

Make extra birria sauce and store it in the fridge – it’s perfect for adding to soups or stews later on.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (2 tacos)
Calories 320 kcal
Protein 12 grams
Fat 9 grams
Carbohydrates 45 grams
Fiber 8 grams
Sugar 6 grams
Sodium 580 mg

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients and tortilla brands used.

Serving Suggestions

Vegan birria tacos are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve them with a side of tangy pickled red onions or a simple cabbage slaw for crunch and brightness.

Don’t forget the classic accompaniments like lime wedges and fresh cilantro to elevate every bite.

For a full meal, consider pairing these tacos with a refreshing Vegan Chocolate Milk Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or a hearty side like Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor.

If you’re feeling adventurous, serve alongside some rice and beans or a fresh avocado salad for a colorful, satisfying feast.

Conclusion

Our Vegan Birria Tacos Recipe proves that you don’t need meat to enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of traditional birria. With a blend of dried chilies, aromatic spices, and hearty plant-based fillings like mushrooms and jackfruit, this recipe offers a nutritious, delicious, and satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy night in, these tacos are sure to impress with their authentic taste and vibrant colors. Plus, the recipe is flexible enough to tweak according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

Don’t miss out on exploring more vegan delights on our site, like the Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade to make your tacos truly homemade from start to finish. Happy cooking and buen provecho!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Birria Tacos

Description: A flavorful plant-based twist on traditional birria tacos using jackfruit and spices. Perfectly spiced and served with a rich dipping broth.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT1H
Total Time: PT1H20M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cans young green jackfruit in water, drained and shredded
  • 2 dried guajillo chilies, seeds removed
  • 2 dried ancho chilies, seeds removed
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Toast dried chilies in a dry pan for 2 minutes, then soak in hot water for 15 minutes.
  2. Blend soaked chilies, onion, garlic, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and spices with 1 cup vegetable broth until smooth.
  3. Heat a large pot and add the chili sauce and remaining broth; bring to a simmer.
  4. Add shredded jackfruit, salt, and pepper; cover and cook on low for 45 minutes.
  5. Preheat a skillet and lightly warm tortillas.
  6. Assemble tacos with jackfruit filling, garnish with cilantro and lime wedges, and serve with broth for dipping.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 50 g

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Marta K

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