How To Cook Barbacoa Beef Cheek In The Oven

The Art of Cooking Barbacoa Beef Cheek: Unlocking the Secrets

Barbacoa beef cheek is a delicacy that is sure to elevate any dining experience. If you’re looking to impress your guests with a flavorful and tender dish, then this is the recipe for you. Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with cooking Barbacoa beef cheek in the oven – we’re here to guide you through the process step-by-step.

Gather the Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of Barbacoa beef cheek
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 chipotle peppers, minced
• 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
• 1 cup of beef broth
• Juice of 2 limes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Prepare and Preheat:

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure to preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will ensure even cooking and optimal tenderness for your Barbacoa beef cheek.

Searing the Beef Cheek:

Start by heating the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef cheek with salt and pepper, then add it to the hot skillet. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until nicely browned. This step will help seal in the juices and enhance the flavor profile of the final dish.

The Flavorful Base:

Remove the beef cheek from the skillet and set it aside momentarily. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chipotle peppers. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This aromatic blend will infuse the meat with a rich and smoky taste.

Slow Cooking the Barbacoa Beef Cheek:

Add the seared beef cheek back to the skillet with the flavorful base. Sprinkle the ground cumin and dried oregano over the meat, ensuring an even distribution of flavors. Next, pour in the beef broth and lime juice, which will tenderize the meat and provide a tangy kick. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil.

The Oven Magic:

Transfer the skillet or Dutch oven to the preheated oven and let the Barbacoa beef cheek cook low and slow for approximately 3-4 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and succulent.

The Final Touches:

Once the cooking time is up, remove the meat from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the Barbacoa beef cheek, allowing the strands to soak up the savory juices.

Serving Suggestions:

The options are endless when it comes to serving Barbacoa beef cheek. You can create mouthwatering tacos, serve it over a bed of rice and beans, or even incorporate it into a flavorful sandwich. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime to enhance the taste and presentation.

Now that you have mastered the art of cooking Barbacoa beef cheek in the oven, it’s time to impress your family and friends with this delectable dish. We guarantee it will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!