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Slow Cooker Barbacoa

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Slow Cooker Barbacoa for Tacos Tonight

Slow Cooker Barbacoa is a tender, flavorful Mexican-inspired shredded beef that transforms simple ingredients into a meal perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 hours
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat
  • 3 pounds Boneless Chuck Roast Opt for quality cuts for the best results.
  • 1 cup Low Sodium Beef Broth Can substitute with vegetable broth if needed.
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Olive oil works as a great alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust according to dietary needs.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Consider using ancho for a smoky kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be a delicious substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onions add extra texture if you prefer.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Try ground coriander for a different twist.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Both sweet and smoked varieties work.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper White pepper can be used if preferred.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1 whole Lime Fresh juice is always best for taste.
  • 0.5 cup Freshly Minced Cilantro Omit or substitute with parsley if preferred.

Equipment

  • slow cooker
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add your boneless chuck roast, searing it for 4-5 minutes on each side until a rich, golden-brown crust forms. Transfer the roast to your slow cooker.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon each of kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and paprika. Mix thoroughly.
  3. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the roast in the slow cooker, ensuring all sides are well seasoned. Pour in 1 cup of low sodium beef broth around the meat.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 to 9 hours.
  5. After cooking, remove the lid and use two forks to shred the tender meat directly in the slow cooker, mixing it well with the cooking juices. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shredded beef and garnish with minced cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Serve the Slow Cooker Barbacoa with tortillas, rice, or in burritos. It's freezer-friendly, making it great for meal prep.

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