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Barbacoa Tacos

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  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) / 1 hour (Instant Pot)
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Tacos
  • Method: Slow Cooker, Instant Pot
  • Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Barbacoa Tacos are bursting with rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors, made with tender, slow-cooked beef infused with chipotle peppers, garlic, and citrus. This easy recipe can be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth meal. Perfect for taco nights, gatherings, or meal prep, these tacos are incredibly versatile and can be served with your favorite toppings like cilantro, onions, and avocado.

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast
  • 2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: cilantro, diced onions, avocado, crumbled cheese, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: Trim excess fat from the chuck roast and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
  2. Sear the Meat (Optional): In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the beef on all sides for extra depth of flavor.
  3. Slow Cook: Place the beef in a slow cooker and add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chipotle peppers, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, oregano, and bay leaves. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Shred the Beef: Remove the beef, discard the bay leaves, and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the sauce to soak up the flavors.
  5. Warm the Tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or over an open flame for a slight char.
  6. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each tortilla with shredded barbacoa and top with cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Spicier Version: Add extra chipotle peppers or a dash of cayenne.
  • Taco Bowls: Serve over rice with black beans, salsa, and guacamole.
  • Pork Barbacoa: Substitute beef with pork shoulder for a different take.
  • Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas.
  • Low-Carb: Serve in lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.

Find it online: https://justcooksimple.com/barbacoa-tacos/