Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

Last Updated on July 15, 2024 by Nicole

beef barbacoa

Beef Barbacoa Recipe – Authentic Mexican Flavors You’ll Love!

Indulge in this mouthwatering beef barbacoa recipe! Enjoy tender, flavorful beef infused with authentic Mexican spices, perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls. This easy-to-make dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 5 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Blender or food processor
  • 1 Large bowl or resealable plastic bag 
  • 1 Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with lid 
  • 1 set Measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Cutting board 
  • 1 Knife
  • 2 Forks for shredding the beef
  • 1 Large spoon or spatula  for mixing
  • 1 Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast cut into large chunks
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro optional

Instructions
 

Prepare the marinade:

  • In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, onion, chipotle peppers, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, beef broth, ground cumin, dried oregano, ground cloves, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.

Marinate the beef:

  • Place the beef chunks in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Cook the beef:

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
  • Transfer the marinated beef and all the marinade to a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot. Add the bay leaves.
  • Cover the pot with a lid and cook in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Shred and serve:

  • Remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard the bay leaves.
  • Return the shredded beef to the pot and mix it with the cooking juices.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve with tortillas, rice, or your favorite sides.

Video

Notes

1. Beef Cut: Use beef chuck roast for its marbling, which helps keep the meat tender and juicy during slow cooking.
2. Marinating Time: Marinate the beef for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
3. Cooking Method: Slow-cooking in the oven at a low temperature ensures the beef becomes tender and easy to shred.
4. Adjusting Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to control the spiciness of the dish. For a milder version, use less peppers or remove the seeds.
5. Shredding Technique: Shred the beef while it’s still warm for easier handling and better absorption of the cooking juices.
6. Storage and Reheating: Store leftover barbacoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
7. Variations: Experiment with different serving styles such as tacos, burritos, bowls, or even as a topping for salads.
8. Enhancements: Serve with fresh lime wedges, cilantro, diced onions, and your favorite salsa or hot sauce for added flavor and freshness.
These tips will help you create a delicious and authentic beef barbacoa dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 550mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 4IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 20mg
Keyword beef barbacoa, Mexican recipe, shredded beef, tacos
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Papadzules-Recipe

Papadzules Recipe – Mexican Traditional

No Comments

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HvXYmEuOLzg&pp=ygURUGFwYWR6dWxlcy1SZWNpcGU%3D Papadzules Recipe – Mexican Traditional Beef Barbacoa Recipe – Chipotle Style – Ultimate Instant…

Read More
Flautas Chicken Recipe

Perfectly Crispy Mexican Chicken Flautas

No Comments

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9u-buPbCdQk&pp=ygUWRmxhdXRhcyBjaGVja2VuIFJlY2lwZQ%3D%3D Papadzules Recipe – Mexican Traditional Beef Barbacoa Recipe – Chipotle Style – Ultimate Instant…

Read More
Flautas Beef Recipe

Flautas Beef Recipe

No Comments

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXu_9J0J5jg Papadzules Recipe – Mexican Traditional Beef Barbacoa Recipe – Chipotle Style – Ultimate Instant…

Read More
carne-asada-recipe

Traditional Carne Asada Recipe

No Comments

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhW7nSvLJ9Y&pp=ygULQ2FybmUgQXNhZGE%3D Papadzules Recipe – Mexican Traditional Beef Barbacoa Recipe – Chipotle Style – Ultimate Instant…

Read More
chilaquiles recipe

Give Me Your Favorite Chilaquiles Recipe!

No Comments

chilaquiles recipe https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zx-rX3Du20Y&pp=ygUSY2hpbGFxdWlsZXMgcmVjaXBl Papadzules Recipe – Mexican Traditional Beef Barbacoa Recipe – Chipotle Style –…

Read More