Benji Xavier, a popular TikToker known as @benjixavier, has captured the attention of many with his remarkable journey of losing 100 pounds. His transformation is not just a testament to his commitment to health and fitness, but it also emphasizes that enjoying delicious food is still possible while pursuing weight loss goals.
In a recent TikTok video, Benji shared a mouthwatering recipe for Birria Quesadillas, showcasing how flavorful meals can be part of a mindful eating plan. This recipe has played a significant role in his weight loss journey, proving that you can savor your favorite dishes without compromising your health.
The key to Benji’s success lies in balance. He emphasizes that it’s possible to enjoy birria by making smart ingredient choices, such as using lower-calorie tortillas and reduced-fat cheese. This approach allows for a satisfying meal that aligns with weight loss objectives.
To recreate this delicious dish, here’s what you’ll need:
– 3-4 lbs of Chuck Roast
– 10-12 Guajillo Peppers
– 2-5 Chiles Anchos
– 3-5 Chiles de Árbol
– 2 Roma Tomatoes
– 1/2 White Onion
– 6 Garlic Cloves
– A few Bay Leaves
– Lower-Calorie Wraps
– Reduced-Fat Mozzarella
For the seasoning mixture, gather:
– 32 oz Low Sodium Beef Broth
– 2 tbsp Chicken Bouillon
– 8 Pepper Corns
– 1 tbsp Cumin
– 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
– 1 tbsp Onion Powder
– 1 tbsp Thyme
– 1 tbsp Paprika
– 1 tbsp Oregano
– 1/2 tsp Salt
Now, let’s dive into the preparation steps.
Start by browning the chuck roast on both sides in a pan. Once browned, transfer it to a slow cooker.
Next, prepare the seasoning mixture. De-seed the guajillo peppers, chiles anchos, and chiles de árbol. In a pot, simmer the de-seeded peppers along with the tomatoes, white onion, and garlic cloves until everything is softened, which should take about 10 minutes.
Once softened, blend the mixture with apple cider vinegar, beef broth, and all the spices. Strain this flavorful mixture over the meat in the slow cooker and add a few bay leaves on top.
Cook the meat on low for 7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until it becomes tender. After cooking, shred the meat and return it to the slow cooker with the broth.
To prepare the quesadillas, dip each tortilla into the broth to soak it slightly. Place the soaked tortilla on a hot pan, sprinkle with reduced-fat mozzarella, and add the shredded meat. Fold the tortilla over and cook until both sides are browned, which should take about 2-3 minutes on medium heat.
Serve the quesadillas hot and enjoy a flavorful meal that fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
Benji’s Birria Quesadilla recipe is an excellent choice for anyone on a weight loss journey who still wants to indulge in their favorite foods. Here are a few reasons why this recipe stands out:
First, it features nutrient-dense ingredients. The chuck roast is a great source of protein and iron, while the variety of chiles and spices provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. These elements contribute to overall health and help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Second, the recipe controls fat content. By opting for lower-calorie tortillas and reduced-fat cheese, Benji successfully lowers the overall fat content of the quesadillas without sacrificing flavor. This allows for a richer-tasting meal with fewer calories and less saturated fat, which is beneficial for weight management.
Third, the dish is high in protein and fiber. The chuck roast offers a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Protein also increases satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer. The spices and herbs not only enhance flavor but can also boost metabolism and improve digestion.
Lastly, the recipe is customizable and balanced. It can be easily adjusted to fit various dietary preferences. For instance, you can use even lower-calorie tortillas or incorporate more vegetables into the quesadilla. This flexibility allows you to tailor the meal to your specific nutritional goals while maintaining a balanced diet.
Ultimately, Benji’s Birria Quesadilla recipe provides a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a favorite dish while adhering to weight loss goals. By focusing on nutrient-dense ingredients, controlling fat content, and using a slow cooking method, this recipe supports weight loss and promotes overall health and well-being.
Benji’s message is clear: you can still enjoy food while losing weight. It’s all about finding the right balance that works for you, allowing you to enjoy food while achieving your weight loss and health goals.
Source: TikTok/@benjixavier
