Birria Ramen

Birria Ramen | Recipe Remix

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Time to read 6 min

Transform your leftover birria taco meat into a bowl of rich and flavorful Birria Ramen, combining the best of Mexican and Japanese cuisine. This fusion dish takes the savory, spiced goodness of birria and pairs it with the comfort of ramen noodles, creating a meal that's as unique as it is delicious. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's a quick and satisfying way to enjoy your leftovers, with the added bonus of mushrooms, bok choy, and a perfectly cooked egg for extra flavor and texture. Whether you're looking to impress with a fancy cracked egg or keep it simple, this Birria Ramen is sure to become a favorite.

birria ramen

Prep time

10 min

Cook time

10 min

Servings

2 servings

Category

Recipe Remix & Leftovers

Origin

InstaBomb Kitchen

Ingredients

  • 1-3 lbs of beef chuck roast

  • 1 InstaBomb Birria Bomb

  • 2 cups of water


  • 2 packets of ramen noodles (discard seasoning packages)

  • 4 cups Birria broth

  • 1 cup Birria meat

  • 2 large soft or hard boiled eggs (optional)

  • Chopped cilantro (garnish)

  • Chopped white onions (garnish)

Birria Cooking Methods

INSTANT POT

Add 1-3 pounds of Beef Chuck Roast, pour in 2 cups of water, place 1 InstaBomb Pot Roast Bomb (make sure bomb is touching the water), push "Pressure Cook" button, set cook time for 1 hour (allow to go 10 mins after done before releasing steam).


SLOW COOKER

Add 1-3 pounds of Beef Chuck Roast, pour in 2 cups of water, place 1 InstaBomb Pot Roast Bomb (make sure bomb is touching the water), set on low for 8 hours, or set on high for 6 hours. Stir after first hour.


STOVE TOP

Add 1-3 pounds of Beef Chuck Roast, season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper to both sides of meat. Heat on high with 2 tablespoons of oil of choice, sear each side of meat for 4 minutes per side, add 3 cups of water and 1 InstaBomb Pot Roast bomb (make sure bomb is touching the water). Once the water starts to boil, reduce flame to medium low and keep covered. Cook 3.5 hours. Stir after first hour.

Directions

Step 1

In a saucepan, heat the Birria broth with meat until it starts boiling. If you'd like a thinner soup, add one cup of water or beef broth.

Step 2

Add ramen noodles to the soup and cook per package instructions and set aside.

Step 3

Boil the eggs for 5 minutes, until soft boiled (optional). 

Step 4

Divide the soup between 2 bowls, slice the egg in half in each one and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and chopped white onions.

Birria Ramen: A Fusion of Mexican and Japanese Culinary Traditions

Imagine combining the bold, savory flavors of Mexican birria with the comforting warmth of Japanese ramen—this is the culinary magic that is Birria Ramen. This fusion dish is not only a creative way to repurpose leftover birria taco meat but also a mouthwatering meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for those who crave something different yet familiar, Birria Ramen brings together two beloved cuisines in a single bowl. Whether you’re a fan of birria’s rich, spiced broth or ramen’s slurp-worthy noodles, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.

The History of Birria and Ramen

The Origins of Birria

Birria hails from the Mexican state of Jalisco, particularly from the town of Cocula, where it has been enjoyed for centuries. Originally, birria was made with goat meat, slow-cooked in a rich, spiced broth until tender. Over time, the dish evolved, with beef becoming a popular substitute for goat. The broth, infused with a blend of chiles, spices, and herbs, became the heart of the dish, often served with tortillas or used as a dipping sauce for tacos, now famously known as "birria tacos."

The Ramen Revolution

Ramen, on the other hand, is a Japanese noodle soup with roots that trace back to China. It became popular in Japan in the early 20th century and has since become a global sensation. Traditional ramen is made with wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, flavored with soy sauce or miso, and topped with ingredients like sliced pork, nori (seaweed), and green onions. The dish's adaptability and endless variations have made it a favorite comfort food around the world.

The Fusion of Two Worlds

Birria Ramen is the perfect example of culinary fusion, where two distinct food traditions come together to create something entirely new and exciting. This dish leverages the hearty, spiced broth of birria and pairs it with the chewy, satisfying noodles of ramen. The result is a flavor-packed bowl that honors the heritage of both cuisines while offering something fresh and innovative.

Why Birria Ramen Is the Perfect Fusion Dish

Rich in Flavor

Birria Ramen combines the best of both worlds—Mexican spices and Japanese comfort. The birria broth, with its deep, complex flavors, perfectly complements the simple yet satisfying ramen noodles. The addition of mushrooms and bok choy adds earthiness and a touch of bitterness that balances the richness of the broth.

Easy and Quick to Make

One of the biggest advantages of Birria Ramen is how quickly it comes together. With leftover birria meat and broth, this dish can be whipped up in just 20 minutes. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of your leftovers, transforming them into something entirely new and exciting.

A Dish for All Seasons

Birria Ramen is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Its warming, hearty nature makes it perfect for colder months, while the fresh vegetables and light noodles keep it from feeling too heavy during warmer weather. Whether you’re craving comfort food on a chilly evening or a quick lunch on a busy day, Birria Ramen fits the bill.

Interesting Variations on Birria Ramen

Spicy Birria Ramen

For those who love a kick, try adding extra chiles or a spoonful of chili oil to the broth. This will elevate the heat level and add another layer of flavor to the dish. You can also garnish with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Birria Ramen with Miso

Incorporate a Japanese twist by stirring a spoonful of miso paste into the broth. The miso will add depth and a slightly salty, umami flavor that compliments the spices in the birria.

Vegan Birria Ramen

If you’re looking for a plant-based option, you can make a vegan version of Birria Ramen by using a vegetable broth base and substituting the birria meat with jackfruit or mushrooms. The jackfruit mimics the texture of shredded meat, while the mushrooms provide a rich, umami flavor.

Birria Ramen with Toppings Galore

Get creative with your toppings! In addition to the traditional green onions and boiled eggs, consider adding fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or even a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish. Crispy fried onions or garlic chips can also add a delightful crunch.

Birria Ramen Around the World

Popularity in the United States

Birria Ramen has become increasingly popular in the United States, particularly in cities with large Mexican and Japanese communities. Places like Los Angeles, with its vibrant food scene, have seen a surge in food trucks and restaurants offering this fusion dish. The combination of familiar flavors with an innovative twist has made Birria Ramen a hit among food enthusiasts.

Global Appeal

While Birria Ramen is most popular in the U.S., its appeal is spreading globally. Food lovers in Canada, the U.K., and even parts of Asia are starting to embrace this fusion dish. Its ability to bring together two beloved cuisines in one bowl makes it a fascinating and delicious option for adventurous eaters.

Why You Should Try Birria Ramen

A Fusion of Cultures

Birria Ramen is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of cultural exchange. By combining the bold flavors of Mexican birria with the comforting simplicity of Japanese ramen, this dish represents the best of both worlds. It’s a testament to the creativity and innovation that can happen when different culinary traditions come together.


A Delicious Way to Repurpose Leftovers

If you’re a fan of birria tacos, Birria Ramen is a fantastic way to enjoy your leftovers in a completely new format. The rich broth and tender meat are just as delicious when paired with ramen noodles, making this dish both economical and satisfying.


Quick and Easy Comfort Food

In our fast-paced world, finding time to cook can be a challenge. Birria Ramen offers a quick and easy solution without compromising on flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in minutes.



Birria Ramen is a delightful fusion dish that combines the best elements of Mexican and Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of birria or a ramen enthusiast, this dish is sure to win you over with its rich flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility. Next time you have leftover birria taco meat, don’t hesitate to turn it into a steaming bowl of Birria Ramen—a meal that’s as satisfying as it is unique.



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birria ramen recipe