Name: Mouthwatering Barbacoa Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 lb Beef brisket or chuck roast (trimmed and cut into 2 inch chunks); 1/2 cup Beef broth (or chicken broth); 2 medium Chipotle chiles in adobo (including the sauce, about 4 tsp); 5 cloves Garlic (minced or coarsely chopped); 2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar; 2 tbsp Lime juice; 1 tbsp Dried oregano; 2 tsp Cumin; 2 tsp Sea salt; 1 tsp Black pepper; 1/2 tsp Ground cloves (optional); 2 whole Bay leaf

Prepare yourself for a flavor explosion with this incredible Barbacoa recipe! This tender, juicy, and oh-so-flavorful beef dish is perfect for your next taco night or any time you’re craving some seriously delicious Mexican-inspired cuisine. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking method, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Melt-in-your-mouth tender: The slow cooking process transforms tough cuts of beef into succulent, falling-apart meat that’s irresistibly good.
Bursting with flavor: A perfect blend of spices and aromatics creates a depth of flavor that’ll have your taste buds dancing.
Versatile: Use this barbacoa in tacos, burritos, salads, or even as a topping for nachos – the possibilities are endless!
Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd with ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Beef: Brisket or chuck roast, for that perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
Broth: Beef or chicken, to keep everything moist and add depth.
Chipotle chiles in adobo: The secret weapon for smoky heat and complexity.
Garlic: Because, well, garlic makes everything better!
Apple cider vinegar and lime juice: For that perfect tangy kick.
Dried oregano: A classic herb that pairs beautifully with beef.
Cumin: For earthy, warm notes that are essential in Mexican cuisine.
Salt and pepper: To enhance all the other flavors.
Ground cloves: Optional, but adds a subtle warmth and complexity.
Bay leaves: For an extra layer of aromatic goodness.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Spice it up: Add more chipotle peppers or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
Go citrusy: Increase the lime juice or add some orange zest for a brighter flavor.
Herb it up: Try fresh cilantro or a mix of fresh herbs for a different twist.
Protein swap: Use pork shoulder for a different but equally delicious barbacoa.

How to Make Barbacoa

Step 1: Blend the Flavor Base

Toss all your liquid ingredients and spices (except the bay leaves) into a blender and whizz until smooth. This magical mixture is going to infuse your beef with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Prep the Slow Cooker

Place your beef chunks in the slow cooker, pour over your blended mixture, and tuck in those bay leaves. It’s like tucking your beef into a cozy, flavorful bed.

Step 3: Let it Cook

Now, here’s the hardest part – waiting! Cook on high for 4-6 hours or low for 8-10 hours. Your house is going to smell amazing.

Step 4: Shred and Serve

Once the beef is fall-apart tender, remove the bay leaves, shred the meat, and let it soak up all those delicious juices for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Choose the right cut: Brisket or chuck roast are perfect for barbacoa. They have the right amount of fat to keep the meat moist during the long cooking process.
Don’t skip the resting time: Those 5-10 minutes at the end allow the shredded beef to soak up even more flavor.
Adjust the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less chipotle and add more to taste.

How to Serve Mouthwatering Barbacoa

Barbacoa is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

Taco style: Serve in warm tortillas with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Burrito bowls: Layer over rice with black beans, corn, and your favorite toppings.
Salad topper: Use as a protein-packed topping for a fresh, crisp salad.
Nachos: Pile onto crispy tortilla chips with melted cheese and all the fixings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled barbacoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This barbacoa freezes beautifully! Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Use the same ingredients but cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes with a natural release.

What if I can’t find chipotle peppers in adobo?
You can substitute with 1-2 tablespoons of chipotle powder and a tablespoon of tomato paste for a similar smoky, spicy flavor.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! The barbacoa itself is low in carbs. Just be mindful of what you serve it with to keep it keto-compliant.

Can I use a different type of meat?
While beef is traditional, you can absolutely use pork shoulder or even chicken thighs for a different twist on barbacoa.

This Barbacoa recipe is a game-changer for your Mexican-inspired meals. With its rich, complex flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or just want to elevate your weeknight dinners, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

Lisa

Hi, I’m Lisa Denton! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

Mouthwatering Barbacoa Recipe