Instant Pot Birria

Step 1

In a small bowl combine the salt (1 1/2 tablespoons), pepper (1 tablespoon), and cumin (1 teaspoon). Dab meat completely dry with paper towels, then sprinkle with seasoning on all sides and press to adhere.

Step 2

Turn the IP to saute, and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once the IP says "hot", add the ancho chilis (4), guajillo chilis (4), and chipotle pepper (1). Saute in the hot oil for about 3 minutes - they should just slightly start to soften. The IP gets HOT! So be sure to stir constantly.

Step 3

Place toasted chilies and pepper in your blender, and pour the boiling water over the top. Press the tops of these down to ensure they're fully submerged, and set aside for 10 minutes.

Step 4

Meanwhile, add 2 remaining tablespoons of oil to the IP. Once the screen says "hot", add the onions (1), and saute until they begin to soften and turn golden. Add the tomatoes (and toss to combine. Add all the spices (peppercorns [8], cloves [2], thyme [1 teaspoon], Marjoram [1 teaspoon], oregano [1 teaspoon], bay leaves [2], cumin [1/2 teaspoon], ginger, cinnamon [1 teaspoon], and garlic powder [1 teaspoon]). Continue to stir as they become fragrant, about 2 minutes. Press "cancel" on the IP.

Step 5

Add sauteed onions, tomatoes, and spices to the blender with the chilis. Add the salt (start with 2 teaspoons), sugar (1/2 teaspoon), and apple cider vinegar (1/4 cup). Blend until completely smooth. Taste and adjust the sauce to your liking, I always add an additional teaspoon of salt here.

Step 6

Pour sauce into the IP, and nestle the meat in it. Secure the lid, and press pressure cook - make sure it's set to "high", and that the pressure release valve is set to "sealing". Cook for 45 minutes. Once the meat is done cooking, turn the pressure release valve to "venting". Once the pin drops, remove the lid. Check the meat, it should shred easily using 2 forks, if not, feel free to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Step 7

Remove the meat. Once cool enough to handle, shred using 2 forks.

Step 8

Serve as a stew in a bowl, with the consume ladled on top. Or in a tortilla, with a side of consume. Top with cilantro, white onions and lime wedges. Enjoy!