Description
This Slow Cooker Barbacoa recipe delivers tender, flavorful shredded beef infused with a blend of aromatic spices and fresh lime. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply served over rice, this dish offers a rich, slow-cooked taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 ½ pounds boneless chuck roast (good quality)
- ½ cup low sodium beef broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garnish
- 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon freshly minced cilantro
Instructions
- Sear the Chuck Roast: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Sear the chuck roast on both sides until browned, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. This step helps to lock in flavor and develop a rich outer crust.
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to create a uniform seasoning blend.
- Season the Beef: Place the seared chuck roast into the slow cooker. Evenly rub the prepared seasoning mix over all sides of the roast to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Add Broth: Pour ½ cup of low sodium beef broth into the slow cooker around the roast. This adds moisture and helps create a savory sauce during cooking.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the beef on low for 8 to 9 hours, or until the beef becomes fork-tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Beef: Once cooked, shred the beef directly in the slow cooker using two forks. This allows the shredded meat to soak up the flavorful cooking juices.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over the shredded beef and garnish with freshly minced cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- For best flavor, use a good quality boneless chuck roast.
- Be sure to sear the meat well to add depth of flavor.
- Adjust the chili powder amount based on your preferred spice level.
- The beef broth adds moisture; avoid skipping it to prevent dry meat.
- This recipe can be made a day ahead—the flavors improve when allowed to rest overnight in the fridge.
- Serve with tortillas, rice, or your favorite Mexican sides.
