Oh, the joy of discovering a recipe so simple yet so transformative! This Easy Slow Cooker Barbacoa Beef is like a cozy hug for your taste buds, effortlessly blending flavors with the patience of a Sunday afternoon nap. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen—could anything be more comforting?
Steps
- Cut the chuck roast into six equal portions, removing any large pieces of fat. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear half of the beef pieces until all sides are browned, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Repeat with the remaining pieces.
- In a food processor, blend chipotle chilies, garlic, and 1/4 cup of beef broth until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix the remaining beef broth with the chili blend, cumin, oregano, and cloves.
- Pour the chili and spice mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, and add bay leaves. Cover and cook on low heat for 8 to 9 hours until the beef is tender.
- Once cooked, take the beef out of the slow cooker and shred it. Add fresh lime juice to the broth in the slow cooker, then return the shredded beef to soak for another 20 to 30 minutes on low or warm.
- Strain the beef from the liquid and serve it in warm corn tortillas with your choice of toppings.
Ingredients
- Chuck roast, cut into 6 portions
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt (approximately 1 teaspoon)
- Black pepper (approximately 3/4 teaspoon)
- 1/2 cup beef broth, divided
- Chipotle chilis in adobo sauce
- 4 cloves fresh garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh lime juice
- Optional: Hot sauce
- Warm corn tortillas, for serving
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2792 | Calories from Fat: 1656 | Total Fat: 184g | Saturated Fat: 88g | Cholesterol: 936mg | Sodium: 4000mg | Potassium: 5480mg | Total Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 264g | Vitamin A: 360IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 424mg | Iron: 36.8mg
FAQ
- What is Barbacoa?
- Barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish often made with beef, goat, or lamb. It is typically seasoned with dried chilies and spices and cooked slowly until it becomes incredibly tender. This flavorful meat is commonly used as a filling for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes.
- Can I cook Barbacoa Beef on high heat in a slow cooker?
- It is not advisable to cook Barbacoa Beef on high heat in a slow cooker. Cooking on low heat ensures that the beef becomes tender and flavorful, so it’s best to stick with the low and slow method.
- How can I make Barbacoa Beef less spicy?
- If you prefer a milder version, you can substitute the chipotle peppers with 4 teaspoons of chili powder. Additionally, you can skip the step involving a food processor and simply mince the garlic instead.
- What are some recommended ways to serve Barbacoa Beef?
- Barbacoa Beef is versatile and can be served in various ways, including tacos, burritos (either wraps or bowls), salads, nachos, quesadillas, and enchiladas.
- What sides pair well with Barbacoa Beef?
- Some great side dishes to complement Barbacoa Beef include Mexican rice, cilantro lime rice, and refried beans.
Tips
- Searing for Flavor: Before placing the beef in the slow cooker, make sure to sear it on all sides. This step enhances the flavor by caramelizing the outer layer, which adds depth to the final dish.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder barbacoa, substitute the chipotle chilies with 4 teaspoons of chili powder. Simply mince the garlic instead of processing it with the chilies to maintain the flavor without the heat.
- Low and Slow Cooking: For the most tender beef, cook on low heat for 8–9 hours in the slow cooker. Avoid the temptation to cook it on high heat, as this can result in tougher meat.
- Enhance with Lime: After shredding the beef, stir fresh lime juice into the broth in the slow cooker. Let the meat soak in the lime-infused broth for an additional 20–30 minutes on low or warm to enhance the flavors before serving.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker (Crockpot)
- Food Processor
