Mouthwatering Crockpot Barbacoa Beef Recipe
This Mouthwatering Crockpot Barbacoa Beef recipe offers tender, flavorful shredded beef cooked slowly with a blend of aromatic spices. The beef is first seared to develop deep flavor, then slow-cooked until perfectly tender, making it ideal for tacos, burritos, or alongside rice and beans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 1/2 lb boneless chuck roast
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
For the Seasoning Blend:
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
For Serving:
- 1 lime
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, sear the boneless chuck roast on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned. This step intensifies the flavor of the beef.
- Prepare the Seasoning Blend and Coat the Beef: In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, paprika, and ground black pepper. Place the seared chuck roast into the slow cooker and rub the spice blend all over the meat to evenly coat.
- Add Broth and Slow Cook: Pour the low-sodium beef broth around the meat in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 8 to 9 hours, until the beef is fork tender and easy to shred. Check around the 8-hour mark to avoid overcooking.
- Shred the Beef: Use two forks to shred the beef directly in the slow cooker, mixing it well with the cooking juices for maximum flavor.
- Finish and Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shredded beef and sprinkle with finely chopped fresh cilantro. The lime brightens the rich flavors and adds a fresh contrast. Serve warm as desired.
Notes
- Searing the beef before slow cooking enhances the flavor and texture.
- Ensure to check the beef near the end of cooking to prevent it from drying out.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels in the dish.
- Perfect for tacos, burritos, or served with rice and beans.
- Leftovers taste great and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
