Slow Cooker Barbacoa Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Barbacoa Beef recipe is the ultimate hands-off meal for busy days. The chuck roast or pot roast becomes incredibly tender and flavorful as it simmers in the slow cooker, absorbing all the wonderful spices and seasonings. The combination of smoky chipotle peppers, tangy vinegar, and earthy cumin creates a deep, complex flavor profile that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re making tacos, burritos, or bowls, this barbacoa beef will elevate any meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds chuck roast or pot roast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely diced
• ½ cup beef broth
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 small lime, juiced
• 4 chipotle peppers in adobo, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 to 3 bay leaves
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chuck roast or pot roast with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step enhances the flavor of the meat.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared beef to your slow cooker.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Add the beef broth, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, diced chipotle peppers, cumin, oregano, bay leaves, and ground cloves to the slow cooker. Pour the onion and garlic mixture over the beef.
5. Slow Cook the Beef: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Shred the Beef: Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir it in with the sauce. Discard the bay leaves.
7. Serve: Serve the barbacoa beef in tacos, burritos, or over rice. You can top it with cilantro, lime wedges, and your favorite toppings like salsa, cheese, or avocado.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Total Time: 8-10 hours (slow cook on low) or 4-5 hours (slow cook on high)

Variations

• Different Cuts of Beef: You can use other cuts of beef, such as brisket or round roast, for this recipe. Just ensure they are well-marbled for the best texture and flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers in adobo to suit your heat preference. For a milder version, use fewer peppers or remove the seeds before dicing them.
• Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the slow cooker for added flavor and texture.
• Serving Suggestions: This barbacoa beef works great in tacos, burritos, or bowls, and it pairs wonderfully with rice, beans, and a variety of toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may want to add a little beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without chipotle peppers?

If you prefer a milder barbacoa, you can omit the chipotle peppers or substitute them with a mild green chili pepper. You could also use a mild salsa as a replacement for the chipotles.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To make the barbacoa beef spicier, add more chipotle peppers in adobo, or include a dash of hot sauce or some fresh jalapeños for an extra kick.

Can I make this barbacoa ahead of time?

Yes! This barbacoa beef can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after resting, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the barbacoa beef for up to 3 months. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use beef stew meat instead of a roast?

Yes, beef stew meat can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. The stew meat might cook a bit faster than the roast, so check for tenderness around 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.

How do I know when the beef is done?

The beef is done when it is fork-tender and shreds easily. You should be able to pull the meat apart with little effort using two forks.

Can I use fresh lime juice instead of bottled?

Absolutely! Fresh lime juice is preferred for its vibrant, tangy flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.

Can I add beans to this recipe?

Yes, beans like black beans or pinto beans can be added to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. They’ll soak up the flavors of the sauce and make the dish even heartier.

Can I serve this barbacoa beef with something other than tortillas?

Definitely! You can serve the barbacoa beef over rice, on a salad, or with roasted vegetables for a low-carb option.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Barbacoa Beef is the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold, smoky flavors and tender, fall-apart beef. With its rich sauce and aromatic spices, this barbacoa is perfect for tacos, burritos, or any meal where you want a comforting, flavorful filling. The slow cooker does all the hard work, making it an effortless and satisfying dish that will quickly become a family favorite.

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