Beef Barbacoa Slowcooked Mexican Bliss

Recipe Introduction
Craving Mexican Tonight?
Fancy some proper Mexican food? Ever get that hankering for authentic flavours? This Mexican dishes with beef recipe is exactly what you need. It's packed with smoky, spicy goodness.
Barbacoa Breakdown
Barbacoa is traditionally slow cooked meat. It's originated in the Caribbean with the Taíno people, and later adopted in Mexico. This Beef Barbacoa Recipe is dead easy to make.
This version uses a slow cooker. It takes about 8- 10 hours on low . It feeds 6-8 people easily.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
It’s a great source of protein. This Slow Cooker Mexican Beef is perfect for a casual get-together. Or, just a satisfying mid-week meal. What makes it special? The flavour explosion, innit!
Time to gather your ingredients. Let's get this Chipotle Beef Recipe started. We're making Barbacoa for Burritos , so get the tortillas ready!
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Best Beef Barbacoa Ever
So, you're ready to tackle some Mexican dishes with beef ? Awesome! We're starting with an all-time favourite: Beef Barbacoa .
This isn't some fancy restaurant fare. It’s honest-to-goodness, slow cooked goodness that anyone can make. Trust me, it's easier than ordering takeout.
And way more satisfying. Forget dry, tough beef. This is about melt-in-your mouth, flavour packed Mexican shredded beef .
Main Players: Your Beef & More
First, let's talk beef. You'll need 2 lbs (900g) of beef chuck roast. Chuck is king here because it gets incredibly tender when slow cooked.
Don't be tempted to use a leaner cut. Trust me on this. Trim off any excess fat. A little fat is good for flavour, but we don't want a grease slick.
You will also need:
- 1 tbsp (15ml) vegetable oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced + 1 tbsp adobo sauce
- 1 (10 ounce/280g) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
- 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Quality indicators? The beef should be a nice, deep red colour, with good marbling. Don't buy that pale, sad-looking stuff. Your chipotle peppers should be plump and smell smoky.
Spice Up Your Life: Seasoning Like a Pro
Okay, the seasoning. This is where the magic happens. Cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cloves it’s a party in your mouth.
The chipotle peppers in adobo are a MUST. That's what gives it that authentic smoky, chipotle beef recipe flavor. If you're a bit spice averse, start with just one pepper and taste as you go.
Don't have adobo sauce? A little tomato paste with a pinch of smoked paprika will do in a pinch. Fresh lime juice makes a difference, so skip the bottled stuff.
Essential Equipment: Keep It Simple
You absolutely need a slow cooker. A 6-quart one is ideal. If you don't have a slow cooker, you could try this in a Dutch oven in the oven at 275° F ( 135° C) for about 3- 4 hours, but I haven’t tested it so I don't know how well it will turn out.
You will also need:
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
That's it. See? No fancy gadgets needed.
Once you got this you can make amazing Mexican Beef Tacos , or maybe a good Barbacoa for Burritos
Let's get cooking some great Spicy Mexican Beef Recipes !
Slow Cooked Beef Barbacoa: Mexican Comfort Food at Its Finest
Oh my gosh, are you ready for some seriously delicious mexican dishes with beef ? This recipe for Beef Barbacoa is about to become your new favorite.
Forget takeout; we're making proper, tender, slow cooker mexican beef right in your kitchen. Trust me, it's easier than you think! I remember the first time I tried making barbacoa.
Honestly, it was a bit of a disaster. I skipped the searing step, and the beef turned out bland and mushy.
Lesson learned!
Prep Like a Pro: Your Barbacoa Mise en Place
Before we even think about turning on the hob, let's get organised. This is essential for smooth sailing.
- First, trim that 2 lbs beef chuck roast of any massive chunks of fat. A little is good, but we don't want it swimming in grease, you know?
- Chop your 1 medium yellow onion and mince those 4 cloves of garlic . It's all about getting ahead of the game, babes.
- Dig out your 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and give them a good mince too. Don't forget that 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce from the can it's liquid gold.
- Grab your 1 (10 ounce) can of diced tomatoes and green chilies , 1 cup beef broth , 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar , 2 tablespoons lime juice , and all those lovely spices – 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce , 1 teaspoon cumin , 1 teaspoon dried oregano , 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika , and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves . Salt and pepper at the ready!
step-by-step to Barbacoa Heaven
Right, let's get this chipotle beef recipe cooking!
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium high heat . Season your beef generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the beef on all sides until browned. This is crucial for flavour. Don't skip it!
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes , until softened and fragrant.
- Transfer the beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker . Add the diced tomatoes and chilies, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cloves.
- Cover and cook on low for 8- 10 hours or on high for 4- 5 hours , until the beef is fall apart tender. My advice? Go low and slow, always!
- Remove the beef and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker to soak up all those lovely juices.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. More salt? More lime? You do you!
- Serve hot and enjoy your easy mexican beef dishes.
Barbacoa Boss Moves: Pro Tips for Perfection
Want to take your barbacoa to the next level? I've got you covered.
- Don't be shy with the seasoning! Taste as you go and adjust accordingly. A little extra lime juice can work wonders.
- If you're short on time, you can cook this on high. But honestly, low and slow is the way to go for maximum tenderness. It's worth the wait.
- This mexican shredded beef is even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully overnight. Plus, it's perfect for barbacoa for burritos .
So there you have it, my friend! My recipe for authentic mexican beef . Give it a go, and let me know what you think.
I'm betting this beef barbacoa recipe is going to become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes: Nailing That Mexican Beef Barbacoa
Alright, so you're gonna make some banging Mexican dishes with beef , right? Before you dive headfirst into this Beef Barbacoa Recipe , let's chat about a few things that'll make your life easier.
Trust me, I've been there, done that, almost burned the kitchen down. Honestly, though, these tips are gold.
Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters, you know? Slap that Mexican shredded beef into a bowl and call it a day? Nah, we're going fancy ish.
Think vibrant colors! How about piling your spicy Mexican beef recipes high on warm tortillas with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro? I always add a dollop of sour cream, too, because why not? It is so easy.
Oh my gosh, if you are looking for something different, serve it in a bowl with rice, black beans, and all your favourite toppings.
For drinks, a cold Mexican Coke is always a winner. If you're feeling fancy, Margaritas are the obvious choice. I once tried pairing it with a Paloma. Also awesome.
Storage Secrets: Keeping It Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Refrigeration guidelines are simple: chuck that slow cooker Mexican beef into an airtight container. It'll keep in the fridge for like, 3-4 days.
Freezing? Yeah, you can totally freeze barbacoa. Let it cool completely first. Then, portion it out into freezer bags or containers.
It'll last for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, let it thaw and pop it in the microwave or a pan.
To make it extra, add a splash of beef broth for moisture.
Remix Time: Variations on a Theme
Want to mix things up? For a low-carb version, skip the tortillas and serve it over cauliflower rice. Seriously tasty.
For a seasonal twist, in the summer I add grilled corn to my bowls. It's so easy and yum. In the winter, roasted butternut squash adds a sweet note.
Nutrition Lowdown: Goodness Inside
Okay, let's be real, this isn't health food. But it is packed with protein. We're talking around 35-45g per serving of Barbacoa for Burritos .
Plus, beef has iron, which is important. Just watch the salt. Use it sparingly.
Look, making authentic Mexican beef dishes doesn't have to be scary. A good Chipotle Beef Recipe is amazing to cook.
This Easy Mexican Beef Dishes is about having fun and tweaking things to your taste. So go on, give it a go! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of beef is best for Mexican dishes with beef like this barbacoa, and why?
Beef chuck roast is the star of the show for this barbacoa, and for good reason! It's a tougher cut with lots of connective tissue that breaks down during slow cooking, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful shredded beef.
Think of it like the Mary Berry of beef cuts reliable, flavourful, and always delivers a great result.
Can I make this Beef Barbacoa ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead is a great shout. The flavours actually deepen overnight in the fridge. Just shred the beef, store it in the cooking juices, and then gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the slow cooker before serving. It's like a culinary time machine, making it even better!
How can I make this Beef Barbacoa spicier, and what other variations are there?
Fancy turning up the heat? You can add extra minced chipotle peppers, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even some finely diced jalapeños. For variations, consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness.
Or, for a completely different take, try adding a splash of dark beer to the slow cooker for a deeper, richer flavour. It's your barbacoa, so have it your way!
What's the best way to serve this barbacoa, and what sides go well with it?
Tacos are a classic choice warm tortillas filled with the barbacoa and your favourite toppings like cilantro, onion, salsa, and guacamole. You can also make burrito bowls with rice, beans, corn, and sour cream. For sides, try some Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh and zingy slaw.
And don't forget the Margaritas! It’s a proper fiesta.
How long does leftover Beef Barbacoa last, and what's the best way to store it?
Leftover barbacoa will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container, ideally with some of the cooking juices to keep it moist. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
It's like having a delicious emergency stash ready to go whenever the craving hits.
I'm trying to be health conscious. Are there any nutritional considerations I should be aware of when making this and other Mexican dishes with beef?
Absolutely! While this barbacoa is delicious, it can be relatively high in fat and sodium. To reduce fat, trim the beef chuck well before cooking and consider using leaner cuts. Control the amount of salt added, and choose whole grain tortillas or cauliflower rice for a healthier meal.
Also, load up on veggies and lighter toppings like salsa and cilantro, rather than heavy creams and cheeses to balance things out a bit.
Beef Barbacoa Slowcooked Mexican Bliss

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350-450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-30g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |