What to Serve with Birria Tacos? Delicious Pairing Ideas
Birria tacos are a fan favorite, but when you’re sitting down to enjoy these tasty bites, you might find yourself wondering, “What to serve with birria tacos?” Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Finding the perfect sides to pair with your birria tacos can take the meal to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy dinner, knowing what to serve alongside this flavorful dish is essential.
First off, serving birria tacos is all about balance. You want sides that complement the richness of the tacos without overshadowing them. Next, think about freshness and crunch to contrast the tender meat. From zesty salsas to creamy sides, there are endless options that’ll make your tacos shine. You’re going to love these delicious and easy-to-make pairing ideas, so keep reading to discover the best sides to complete your birria taco feast!
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Fresh Salsas and Sauces to Complement Birria Tacos
Spicy Salsa Verde for Extra Flavor
If you’re wondering what to serve with birria tacos, salsa verde is always a great choice! This tangy, spicy salsa is made with fresh ingredients like tomatillos, cilantro, and green chilies. First, the mild sweetness of the tomatillos balances out the heat from the chilies. Then, cilantro adds a burst of freshness that’s perfect with the rich flavors of birria. You’re going to love how it contrasts with the tacos, giving each bite a delightful kick!
Next, it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply blend the ingredients together and add a bit of lime juice for an extra zing. You can even make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few days. Salsa verde brings a unique, zesty punch that pairs perfectly with your tacos. It’s a must-try side that adds bold flavor without overpowering the dish.
Tangy Red Salsa for a Bold Kick
Now, let’s talk about another fantastic option: tangy red salsa. If you’re asking yourself, “What to serve with birria tacos?” this salsa will definitely do the trick! Red salsa typically combines tomatoes, onions, garlic, and dried chilies for a smoky, flavorful punch. It’s just the right combination of savory and spicy. When drizzled over birria tacos, it adds a whole new depth of flavor. The smokiness from the dried chilies brings out the richness of the slow-cooked meat in a way that’s simply irresistible.
Plus, making it is super simple! Blend the ingredients and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime. You can adjust the spiciness based on your preferences by using more or fewer chilies. This tangy red salsa is the perfect complement to your birria tacos, and I promise it’ll be the hit of the meal.
Sides That Balance the Richness of Birria Tacos

Cilantro Rice as a Light and Flavorful Side
If you’re wondering what to serve with birria tacos, cilantro rice is a perfect option! It’s light, refreshing, and has just the right amount of flavor. First, the fluffy rice provides a mild base that balances the richness of the tacos. Then, the bright cilantro adds a pop of freshness that complements the savory meat. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it’s sure to be a hit!
Next, you can customize it with lime juice or a pinch of chili powder to give it your personal touch. It’s simple to prepare and makes the perfect side for birria tacos. Whether you’re having a big family meal or a casual dinner with friends, this cilantro rice is a must-try. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a light and flavorful addition to your taco feast!
Creamy Mexican Street Corn to Enhance the Meal
Another great side to pair with birria tacos is creamy Mexican street corn. If you’re still wondering what to serve with birria tacos, this is the answer! The corn is coated with a rich blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. The result is a creamy, flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with the savory tacos. It’s a little indulgent but totally worth it!
Plus, it’s easy to make and can be served on the cob or in a bowl. To top it off, a squeeze of lime adds a tangy kick, while chili powder gives it just the right amount of heat. This creamy Mexican street corn will definitely take your meal to the next level. It’s the kind of side that makes every bite even more enjoyable!
Perfect Vegetables to Pair with Birria Tacos

Grilled Onions for a Smoky Addition
When you’re thinking about what to serve with birria tacos, grilled onions are a must-try! These onions bring a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the savory richness of the tacos. First, grilling the onions caramelizes their natural sugars, making them soft and delicious. Then, their smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with the tender, slow-cooked meat of the birria. You’ll love how this simple addition adds an extra layer of depth to the meal.
Next, grilling onions is super easy. Just slice them, toss them in a little olive oil, and place them on the grill until they’re soft and charred. You can even throw in a little salt and pepper for extra seasoning. These grilled onions will enhance your birria tacos in the best way, adding a savory and smoky punch that’s truly irresistible!
Roasted Bell Peppers for a Sweet Touch
Roasted bell peppers are another fantastic option when you’re wondering what to serve with birria tacos! They add a delicious, sweet flavor that balances out the rich meat. First, roasting the peppers brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a nice, tender texture. Then, their subtle smokiness complements the flavor of the tacos without stealing the spotlight. The sweetness of the peppers is a refreshing contrast to the savory meat of the birria, and you’re going to love it!
To make roasted bell peppers, simply cut them into strips, toss them in olive oil, and roast them in the oven until they’re soft and slightly charred. You can easily customize them with a dash of chili powder or garlic if you like. These peppers are a great side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to your birria taco meal. They’re the perfect veggie addition!
Refreshing Drinks That Pair Well with Birria Tacos

Agua Fresca for a Light and Sweet Taste
If you’re thinking about what to serve with birria tacos, agua fresca is an awesome drink choice! It’s refreshing, light, and just the right amount of sweet. First, agua fresca is made with fresh fruits like watermelon, pineapple, or mango. These fruits are blended with water and a little sugar, creating a natural, hydrating drink. Then, the fruity flavors balance the savory richness of the birria tacos, making each bite even better! You’ll love how refreshing it is, especially on a warm day.
Next, making agua fresca is super simple. You can even prepare it in advance and keep it chilled for the perfect pairing when you serve your tacos. Add a squeeze of lime or a few mint leaves for an extra burst of freshness. Agua fresca is the perfect drink to complement the bold flavors of birria tacos. You’re going to love it!
Limeade to Add a Zesty Twist
Another great option when wondering what to serve with birria tacos is limeade. It’s tangy, tart, and has just the right amount of sweetness. First, limeade is made by squeezing fresh limes and mixing the juice with water and sugar. The result is a sweet and tangy drink that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the tacos. The lime’s zesty kick cuts through the richness of the birria, making it feel light and refreshing. You’ll love how it complements the meat and brings everything together!
Next, limeade is super easy to make. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, depending on your taste. You can even get creative by adding a few slices of cucumber or mint to give it a twist. Limeade is the perfect drink to balance the richness of birria tacos. It’s simple, flavorful, and refreshing!
Warm and Hearty Dishes to Serve Alongside Birria Tacos
Mexican Rice to Balance the Flavor Profile
When you’re thinking about what to serve with birria tacos, Mexican rice is an excellent choice! This dish adds a light, flavorful balance to the richness of the tacos. First, the rice is perfectly fluffy, with just the right amount of seasoning. It’s made with ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and onions, which gives it a subtle, savory flavor. The rice’s texture complements the tender birria, and together they create a delicious combination.
Next, it’s super easy to make Mexican rice. You can prepare it in a pot or a rice cooker. Add a little lime juice or cilantro to make it even fresher. Mexican rice is the perfect way to bring balance to the meal, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This dish is comforting, filling, and a great addition to your birria taco feast!
Pinto Beans for a Savory Side Dish
Another great option when considering what to serve with birria tacos is pinto beans. These beans are a hearty and savory side that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of birria. First, pinto beans have a creamy texture that complements the tacos without overpowering them. Their mild, earthy flavor balances out the spices in the birria, creating a well-rounded meal. You can cook the beans with garlic, onion, and a bit of cumin for extra flavor!
Next, pinto beans are easy to prepare. You can cook them from scratch or use canned beans for a quicker option. If you want to add some extra flair, top them with a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream. Pinto beans are a classic and comforting side that will complete your birria taco meal. You’ll love how they enhance the overall flavor!
For more delicious recipes, explore What to serve with ceviche, What to eat with cottage cheese, What to eat with ribs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s a good side dish for birria tacos?
When you’re wondering what to serve with birria tacos, there are so many great options! A classic choice is Mexican rice. It’s light and flavorful, which balances the richness of the tacos. You can add cilantro, lime, or a bit of chili powder for extra zest. Another great side is Mexican street corn. The creamy and smoky flavors perfectly complement the savory birria. Plus, don’t forget about grilled onions or roasted bell peppers! They add a smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tacos. You’re going to love how these sides take your birria tacos to the next level!
What is a good side dish with tacos?
If you’re looking for what to serve with birria tacos, there are plenty of sides to choose from! One great option is a simple side salad. Fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado give a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tacos. Also, consider making some guacamole or a tangy salsa for dipping. These are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your taco experience. You can even make homemade tortilla chips for a crispy crunch on the side. No matter what you choose, these sides will elevate your taco meal and make it even more enjoyable!
How are you supposed to eat birria tacos?
Eating birria tacos is all about enjoying the flavors! To start, grab a soft tortilla, then load it up with the tender, juicy birria meat. You’ll want to dip your taco into the flavorful broth called consomé. The consomé is rich and savory, adding a delicious depth to each bite. Once you’ve got your taco ready, take a big bite and let the juicy flavors sink in. It’s totally fine to get messy – that’s part of the fun! You can also top your tacos with fresh cilantro, onions, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor. Enjoy!
Do you eat birria with corn or flour tortillas?
When deciding what to serve with birria tacos, you’ll typically see them served with corn tortillas. Corn tortillas have a traditional flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich birria meat. The texture is also perfect for holding all that juicy, tender meat! While flour tortillas can be used, they’re less traditional and a bit softer than corn tortillas. If you’re aiming for authenticity, corn tortillas are the way to go. They also add a nice crispy edge when slightly fried, making them even more delicious. You can’t go wrong with either, but corn tortillas are the classic choice!
Wrapping Up: Perfect Pairings to Enjoy with Birria Tacos
Now that you know what to serve with birria tacos, you’re ready to create a meal that everyone will love! Whether it’s the refreshing taste of agua fresca or the savory crunch of grilled onions, each side adds something special to your birria experience. From creamy street corn to the light balance of cilantro rice, you have plenty of delicious options to choose from.
The great thing about birria tacos is that they pair well with so many flavors. So, don’t be afraid to get creative and mix and match your favorite sides! These tasty additions will elevate your birria tacos and make every bite more enjoyable. You’re going to have a blast experimenting with different pairings. So, grab those tacos, choose your sides, and get ready to dive into a flavorful feast!