Combining two distinct dishes that are otherwise unrelated can be a challenge for any chef, but birria ramen is one of those fusion creations that just seems to work. Taqueria El Ranchero De Jalisco on San Antonio’s Southeast Side offers its own take on the noodle-forward riff. After a reader recommended the $5.99 dish, I had to try it for myself.
Opposite The Home Depot on Fair Avenue, Taqueria El Ranchero stands unassuming and almost hidden right off Highway 281. Inside, the open-concept dining room is painted wall-to-wall with murals of pastoral Mexican scenery, while Latin music fills the room with a danceable beat. After finding a table, a server came by to drop off a menu and take my drink order — a Mexican Coke ($3.69) and a water.
While I looked over the menu options, the server returned with a complimentary chips, salsa and queso, a trio that would normally set you back a few dollars elsewhere. The chilled salsa had some bite and a roasted smokiness that paired well with the warm chips. The queso was reminiscent of the kind you get with an order of nachos at sporting events. It took some self-control to resist downing the whole portion before the entree arrived.
The birria ramen was listed on the menu as “birriuchan,” and it was truly the best of both worlds, pairing a rich, savory consomme and stewed meat with the salty goodness of instant noodles. The brothy bowl came with a side of diced onions, cilantro, and lime slices, so I could add extra texture and flavor as I desired. If you’re not into onions or cilantro, at least squirt in some lime juice because that citrusy addition really balances out the robust caldo.
Taqueria El Ranchero De Jalisco might seem like just another taco spot to some, but the restaurant has plenty of affordable options, including the $5.99 birria ramen that kept my belly full for hours. Just keep in mind that a nap might be in order after downing an entire bowl of the flavorful soup…