Go Back

Homemade Beef Barbacoa

This dish uses slow simmering in a smoky, spiced marinade made with chipotle peppers, garlic, and cumin to transform beef into tender, flavorful bites. The final dish has a melt-in-your-mouth texture with rich, smoky, and tangy flavors, often served in tacos or bowls. The recipe emphasizes braising and seasoning techniques for a quick but deeply satisfying meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast cut into large chunks
  • 3 dried chipotle peppers chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for smoky flavor
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon cumin ground
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for tang and tenderizing
  • 1 teaspoon oregano dried
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 medium onion chopped

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Blender or food processor
  • Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Tongs
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Blend the dried chipotle peppers, minced garlic, cumin, vinegar, oregano, and salt with beef broth until smooth to create the marinade.
  2. Place the beef chunks in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over, tossing to coat thoroughly. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Heat a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the beef chunks with marinade and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until they become translucent and fragrant.
  5. Pour in additional beef broth if needed, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the beef simmer gently for about 40 minutes, until it is tender and easily pulls apart.
  6. Uncover the pot and transfer the beef to a serving dish. Use two forks to shred the meat into tender, bite-sized pieces.
  7. Taste the shredded beef and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or vinegar for tang. Serve hot, garnished with fresh toppings or in tacos.