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Birria Seasoning (DIY Spice Blend)

Birria seasoning is a rich, deep-colored spice blend with visible chile, cumin, and oregano for a bold, savory coat. Mix the spices into an even powder blend, then turn it into a paste with vinegar and olive oil for birria-ready meat.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 38
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Birria seasoning spice blend
  • 2 tbsp ancho chili powder
  • 1 tbsp chipotle chili powder
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp cloves
  • 0.5 tsp cinnamon
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper

Method
 

Mix the spice blend
  1. Measure ancho chili powder, chipotle chili powder, ground cumin, and dried oregano into a small bowl, then whisk until evenly combined.
  2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and cloves, then whisk again until the blend looks uniformly speckled.
  3. Whisk in cinnamon and cayenne pepper until fully distributed, creating a rich, deep-colored seasoning with visible chile throughout.
Store
  1. Transfer the birria seasoning to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dark place for up to six months.
Use for birria (make a paste)
  1. To coat meat, mix 3 tablespoons of the seasoning blend with apple cider vinegar and olive oil to form a paste.

Notes

Pro tip: Whisk thoroughly so no single spice clumps—this keeps the deep chile color and aroma consistent batch to batch. Store the seasoning blend in an airtight container for up to 6 months in a cool, dark place. Freezing is not recommended; for a quicker birria, make the paste right before cooking. Dietary swap: use all-smoked paprika instead of chipotle chili powder if you want a milder, less smoky heat.