This slow cooker barbacoa-style beef tacos recipe is a delight for anyone who enjoys tender, flavorful beef. Infused with chipotle peppers, garlic, and a mix of traditional seasonings, the beef simmers until it's pull-apart tender. Add it to your next Taco Tuesday lineup for a hearty meal that's sure to impress.
Chipotle peppers may not be a regular item in your pantry but they are a key ingredient in this recipe, adding a smoky heat to the beef. You can find them canned in the international or Mexican section of most supermarkets. Beef chuck roast is the preferred cut for this recipe due to its marbling, which breaks down during slow cooking to create incredibly tender and flavorful meat.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos
Beef chuck roast: This cut of beef is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful after several hours.
Salt and pepper: Used to season the beef before searing and added to the marinade for extra flavor.
Oil: Used for searing the beef to develop a rich, brown crust.
Chipotle peppers: These smoked jalapenos add a fiery, smoky flavor to the dish.
Garlic: Adds a robust, savory flavor to the marinade.
Cumin: This warming spice gives the marinade an earthy depth.
Dried oregano: A herb that adds a sweet, slightly bitter flavor to the dish.
Ground cloves: A spice that adds a warm, sweet flavor to the marinade.
Beef broth: Used as the cooking liquid in the slow cooker to keep the meat moist.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds tanginess to balance the heat and richness of the other ingredients.
Fresh lime: Adds a tangy brightness to the marinade.
Bay leaves: These leaves add a subtle bittersweet flavor to the dish.
One reader, Inness Vines says:
This slow cooker barbacoa-style beef tacos recipe is a game-changer! The beef is so tender and flavorful, and the chipotle marinade adds a perfect kick. It's incredibly easy to make and the whole family loved it. I'll definitely be making this again!
Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos
How to sear the beef: Sear the beef in a hot skillet to brown the exterior, creating a flavorful crust and locking in the juices.
How to shred the beef: After cooking, remove the beef from the slow cooker and use two forks to pull it apart into small, shredded pieces.
How To Make Slow Cooker Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos
Level up your usual tacos with our barbacoa-style beef tacos recipe made with juicy beef chuck roast slow-cooked in a tasty mix of chipotle and herbs!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Barbacoa Style Beef:
- 3lbsbeef chuck roast
- salt and pepper,to taste
- drizzleoil
- 4chipotle peppers,in adobo sauce, chopped
- 5clovesgarlic,chopped
- 1tbspcumin,ground
- 3tspdried oregano
- ¼tspground cloves
- ½cupbeef broth
- ¼cupapple cider vinegar
- ¼cupfresh lime,juiced
- 3bay leaves
For Serving, Optional:
- flour tortilla,or corn tortillas
- rice,cooked
- Pico de Gallo
- cheese,shredded
- sour cream
- guacamole
- fresh cilantro leaf
- avocado,sliced
Instructions
-
Cut the beef into 6 to 8 large chunks. Season all over with pepper and salt.
-
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef, in batches if necessary, on all sides, until browned.
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Transfer the seared meat to a slow cooker.
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In a medium bowl, combine the chipotles, garlic, cumin, oregano, cloves, salt, pepper, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and lime juice. Mix well.
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Pour the marinade over the beef in the slow cooker and add the bay leaves.
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Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours, until the meat can be shredded easily.
-
Remove and discard the bay leaves.
-
Remove and shred the beef, then return to the slow cooker to marinate in the sauce for at least 10 more minutes, or until ready to serve.
-
To serve, add the shredded beef to your choice of tortillas along with your favorite toppings.
-
Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 278.13kcal
- Fat: 12.64g
- Saturated Fat: 3.90g
- Trans Fat: 0.43g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.70g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.98g
- Carbohydrates: 4.94g
- Fiber: 1.28g
- Sugar: 1.52g
- Protein: 37.12g
- Cholesterol: 108.86mg
- Sodium: 587.38mg
- Calcium: 50.44mg
- Potassium: 843.62mg
- Iron: 5.69mg
- Vitamin A: 232.18µg
- Vitamin C: 28.26mg
Technique Tip for Achieving Tender and Flavorful Barbacoa-Style Beef in a Slow Cooker
When searing the beef, ensure that the skillet is hot enough before adding the meat. This will ensure a good, deep brown crust forms, which adds a lot of flavor to the final dish. Also, don't overcrowd the pan. If necessary, sear the meat in batches. Overcrowding can cause the meat to steam instead of sear, preventing that desirable crust from forming.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos in a Slow Cooker
Prep ahead: Chop and measure ingredients the night before. This will save time and make the cooking process smoother.
Use a slow cooker: Let the slow cooker do the work for you. Simply set it and forget it while the flavors meld together.
Invest in a good knife: A sharp knife can make prep work quicker and more efficient, saving you valuable time in the kitchen.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the barbacoa beef and freeze the extra portions for future quick and easy meals.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to streamline the cooking process and minimize time spent searching for tools and ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos Recipe
beef chuck roast - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder can be used as a flavorful and tender alternative to beef chuck roast in slow-cooked dishes. It has a similar texture and can absorb the rich flavors of the marinade.
chipotle peppers - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can provide a similar smoky flavor to the dish without the heat of chipotle peppers. Use it in smaller quantities and adjust to taste.
beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth to maintain the savory flavor in the dish while making it suitable for vegetarian diets.
flour tortilla - Substitute with corn tortilla: Corn tortillas can be used as a gluten-free alternative to flour tortillas, and they add a deliciously rustic flavor to the tacos.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream, providing a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor to the tacos.
Best Way to Present Slow Cooker Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos
Elevate the plating: When presenting the barbacoa-style beef tacos, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and minimalistic plating to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to shine through.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the tacos with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. The vibrant green hues will contrast beautifully with the rich, savory beef.
Utilize contrasting textures: Consider adding a side of crispy tortilla chips or a crunchy slaw to provide a textural contrast to the tender, succulent beef. This will elevate the dining experience and add depth to the dish.
Emphasize balance: Ensure that the flavors are well-balanced by incorporating a zesty pico de gallo or a tangy lime crema to complement the richness of the barbacoa-style beef.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that every element is thoughtfully arranged to create a visually stunning and harmonious presentation.
Highlight the beef: Showcase the star of the dish by arranging the shredded barbacoa-style beef as the focal point of the plating, allowing its succulent texture and aromatic spices to take center stage.
Consider the vessel: Choose a sophisticated and visually appealing serving vessel that complements the upscale dining experience, such as a sleek ceramic plate or a stylish taco holder.
Artful drizzling: Use a squeeze bottle to delicately drizzle a vibrant sauce or a swirl of crema over the tacos, adding an artistic touch to the presentation while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the finer details, such as wiping the edges of the plate to ensure a clean presentation, and meticulously arranging the toppings to create a polished and professional look.
Elevate the dining experience: Consider incorporating a unique element, such as a smoky presentation using a cloche to infuse the dish with aromatic flavors, adding an element of surprise and sophistication to the overall dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos in a Slow Cooker
- Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop kitchen appliance used for cooking food at a low temperature for an extended period. It's perfect for slowly cooking the barbacoa-style beef to tender perfection.
- Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It's essential for searing the beef before transferring it to the slow cooker.
- Medium bowl: A medium bowl is used for mixing the chipotle marinade, ensuring all the flavors are well combined before pouring it over the beef in the slow cooker.
- Tongs: Tongs are essential for flipping and transferring the beef while searing it in the skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons: These are used to accurately measure and add ingredients such as beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and lime juice to the chipotle marinade.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife is necessary for cutting the beef chuck roast into chunks before seasoning and searing it.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for cutting the beef chuck roast into chunks.
- Slow cooker: A slow cooker is an essential tool for cooking the beef to tender perfection over a long period, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.
- Serving platter: A serving platter is used for presenting the shredded barbacoa-style beef and accompanying taco ingredients for a beautiful and appetizing display.
How To Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos
- Allow the barbacoa-style beef to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For short-term storage, place the cooled shredded beef in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the barbacoa-style beef:
- Divide the cooled shredded beef into portion-sized freezer bags or airtight containers.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the bags or containers with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen barbacoa-style beef:
- Thaw the desired amount of beef in the refrigerator overnight.
- Place the thawed beef in a saucepan or microwave-safe dish.
- Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- If the beef seems dry, add a small amount of beef broth or water to help moisten it.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen barbacoa-style beef directly from the freezer:
- Place the frozen beef in a saucepan or microwave-safe dish.
- Heat over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- This method may take longer, and you may need to add a little extra liquid to prevent the beef from drying out.
How To Reheat Leftover Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos
- The best way to reheat leftover slow cooker barbacoa-style beef is to place it in a covered dish with a little bit of the cooking liquid or beef broth and heat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to keep the meat moist and prevents it from drying out.
- Another option is to reheat the shredded beef in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a little bit of the cooking liquid or beef broth to the skillet and stir the meat occasionally until it's heated through. This method is quicker than the oven method, but you'll need to keep a closer eye on the meat to make sure it doesn't dry out.
- If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the barbacoa-style beef in the microwave. Place the meat in a microwave-safe dish with a little bit of the cooking liquid or beef broth, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave it on high for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. Be sure to stir the meat halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
- If you have leftover tortillas, you can wrap them in foil and place them in the oven alongside the reheating beef. This will help to warm them up and make them more pliable.
- For any leftover toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole, or sour cream, it's best to store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to reheat the barbacoa-style beef, you can simply take the toppings out of the fridge and add them to your tacos once the meat is heated through.
Random Fact About Slow Cooker Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos
Barbacoa-style beef tacos are a popular dish in Mexico and are often made using slow cooking methods to achieve tender, flavorful meat. Traditionally, barbacoa refers to meat that is slow-cooked over an open fire or in an underground pit, but this recipe offers a convenient and delicious alternative using a slow cooker. This cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and savory beef filling for tacos. The use of chipotle peppers, garlic, and spices adds a smoky and aromatic dimension to the dish, making it a perfect choice for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Is Making Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos in a Slow Cooker Economical for Home Cooking?
This slow cooker barbacoa-style beef tacos recipe offers great cost-effectiveness for a household. The use of beef chuck roast and affordable pantry staples makes it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the dish allows for creative use of leftovers, reducing food waste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict rates this recipe at 9 out of 10 for its affordability, flavor, and flexibility.
Is This Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This slow cooker barbacoa-style beef tacos recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:
- The recipe uses a fatty cut of beef (chuck roast), which is high in saturated fat and calories.
- The marinade contains high-sodium ingredients like beef broth and chipotle peppers.
- Traditional taco toppings like cheese and sour cream can add extra fat and calories to the dish.
However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe:
- The use of fresh lime juice and apple cider vinegar can help tenderize the meat and add a tangy flavor without relying on excessive salt.
- The slow cooking method helps to break down the tough fibers in the beef, making it easier to digest.
- The recipe includes the option to serve the beef with rice and fresh vegetables like pico de gallo and cilantro, which can add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Trim any visible fat from the beef before cooking to reduce the overall fat content.
- Use a low-sodium beef broth or replace it with water to cut down on added salt.
- Opt for whole-grain tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of flour tortillas to increase the fiber content.
- Choose low-fat or non-fat versions of toppings like cheese and sour cream, or omit them altogether.
- Increase the amount of fresh vegetables served with the tacos, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado, to boost the nutrient density of the meal.
- Consider using a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak, to reduce the saturated fat content.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delicious Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos Recipe
The slow cooker barbacoa-style beef tacos recipe is a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures. The tender beef, infused with smoky chipotle and aromatic spices, creates a rich and savory filling for the tacos. The balance of acidity from the apple cider vinegar and lime juice adds a delightful tanginess. The versatility of this dish allows for endless customization with your favorite toppings, making it a perfect choice for a festive gathering or a casual weeknight meal. Whether served with traditional accompaniments or personalized to individual tastes, this recipe promises a memorable and satisfying dining experience.
Enhance Your Slow Cooker Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Slow Cooker Barbacoa-Style Beef Tacos Recipe:
This slow cooker barbacoa-style beef tacos recipe is a must-try for all beef lovers. The beef chuck roast is seared to perfection, then slow-cooked with a flavorful blend of chipotle peppers, garlic, and aromatic spices. The combination of cumin, oregano, and a hint of cloves creates a rich and robust flavor profile. With the addition of beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and lime juice, the meat becomes tender and succulent. This recipe promises to deliver an authentic barbacoa experience, making it a trustworthy choice for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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