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Braised Beef Barbacoa

Irresistibly Tender Braised Beef Barbacoa for Every Feast

This Braised Beef Barbacoa recipe delivers tender, smoky beef, perfect for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 3 lbs Chuck Roast Can substitute with brisket.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt Essential for enhancing meat flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Black Pepper Essential for enhancing meat flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil Can substitute with olive oil.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Onion Adds natural sweetness; omit if desired.
  • 2 medium Green Chiles Swap with jalapeños for spicier kick.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Lime Juice Fresh lime is recommended.
  • 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar Can replace with red wine vinegar.
  • 2 tbsp Brown Sugar Honey can be a good substitution.
For Flavoring
  • 2 tsp Cumin Essential spice for authentic flavor.
  • 2 tsp Oregano Essential spice for authentic flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Chili Powder Essential spice for authentic flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Cloves Essential spice for authentic flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Liquid Smoke Smoked paprika can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Can be omitted for simplicity.
For the Cooking Liquid
  • 1 cup Beer (Modelo) Can substitute with beef broth.

Equipment

  • slow cooker
  • Large skillet
  • blender

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Generously season your chuck roast with kosher salt and black pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow to rest for about 30 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil and heat until shimmering. Sear seasoned beef for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker and add the onion, green chiles, garlic, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cumin, oregano, chili powder, ground cloves, and liquid smoke. Stir gently.
  4. Blend chipotle peppers with a splash of water in a blender until smooth. Mix this into the slow cooker with other ingredients.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
  6. Shred the beef into bite-sized pieces and return to the slow cooker. Mix with braising liquid before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store in airtight containers. Reheat slowly to retain moisture and flavor.

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