Birria Seasoning is the secret to making rich, deeply flavorful birria at home without the long prep work. Instead of rehydrating dried chiles and blending marinades, this Birria Seasoning gives you all the authentic Mexican flavors in one easy spice mix. With dried guajillo, chipotle, cumin, oregano, cloves, and cinnamon, it delivers bold, smoky, slightly spicy depth in every bite. I created this Birria Seasoning to make weeknight birria tacos possible without sacrificing flavor. Once you mix up a batch, you’ll have everything you need to create tender, restaurant-quality birria anytime.
Authentic Flavor, Simplified
Traditional birria requires soaking dried chiles, blending marinades, and marinating meat overnight. While that process creates incredible flavor, it takes time.
This Birria Seasoning captures:
- Sweet fruity chile flavor
- Smoky heat
- Warm spices
- Subtle earthiness
- Balanced salt
All without the extra steps.
Why You’ll Love This Birria Seasoning
- No soaking dried chiles
- No overnight marinating required
- Works in slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven
- More affordable than store-bought packets
- Stays fresh for 6 months
It’s a time-saving kitchen staple.
Ingredients for Birria Seasoning
The Spice Blend
- 3 tablespoons dried guajillo chili powder
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 tablespoon dried arbol chili powder (or cayenne)
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Why These Ingredients Matter
Guajillo chili powder adds mild sweetness and color.
Chipotle provides smokiness.
Arbol adds heat (adjust to taste).
Cumin and oregano create warmth and depth.
Cloves and cinnamon bring authentic birria aroma.
How to Make Birria Seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Add all spices to a small bowl.
Step 2:
Whisk thoroughly until evenly combined.
Step 3:
Transfer to an airtight container.
Step 4:
Store in pantry up to 6 months.
How to Use Birria Seasoning
Slow Cooker Method
- Cut 2 pounds beef chuck into large chunks.
- Season with 4 tablespoons Birria Seasoning.
- Sear meat 2–3 minutes per side.
- Transfer to Crock Pot.
- Add:
- 1 ½ cups beef stock
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- Cook:
- High 4–5 hours
- Low 8–10 hours
Instant Pot Method
- Season and sear meat using sauté function.
- Add stock, vinegar, tomato sauce.
- Cook high pressure 40 minutes.
- Natural release 10 minutes.
Oven Method
- Sear seasoned beef in Dutch oven.
- Add liquids.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 2 hours.
Shred beef and use for tacos, quesabirria, burritos, or bowls.
If you want the full step-by-step version, check out my authentic Beef Birria recipe for detailed cooking instructions and taco assembly tips.
Storage, Cost Savings & Variations
Storage
- Airtight container
- Pantry up to 6 months
- Keep away from moisture
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
- One homemade batch makes multiple meals
- Costs far less than $8-10 birria bombs
- No fillers or added sugar
Adjusting Spice Level
- Mild: Replace arbol with extra guajillo
- Medium: Use full recipe
- Spicy: Add extra chipotle or cayenne
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Birria Seasoning made of?
Birria Seasoning includes dried guajillo, chipotle, arbol chiles, cumin, oregano, cloves, cinnamon, and garlic.
Can I make birria without soaking chiles?
Yes. This seasoning blend eliminates the need to rehydrate dried chiles.
How spicy is birria seasoning?
It ranges from medium to spicy depending on arbol chili amount.
How long does homemade birria seasoning last?
Up to 6 months stored in an airtight container.
Print
Birria Seasoning (Authentic Mexican Spice Blend)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 batch seasoning
- Category: Seasoning
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Birria Seasoning is a bold Mexican spice blend made with dried chiles, cumin, oregano and warm spices. Perfect for authentic beef birria.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons guajillo chili powder
1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
1 tablespoon arbol chili powder (or cayenne)
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons Mexican oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. Combine all spices in bowl.
2. Whisk thoroughly.
3. Store in airtight container.
4. Use 4 tablespoons per 2 pounds beef.