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Tacos de barbacoa recipe

Tacos De Barbacoa Recipe - Quick Delicious Meals

Dinner can sometimes be a gridlock of indecision; the pressure builds. You want something that sings to your taste buds but also complements what’s already on the table. Tacos de barbacoa are versatile; they shine in the spotlight, but they also play beautifully in the ensemble.
I often find myself reaching for sides that enhance this dish. Here’s what I love pairing with tacos de barbacoa:
The combination of creamy, spicy mayo slathered on sweet corn is pure bliss. Add a sprinkle of cotija cheese and a dash of lime juice, and you’re in for a treat.
Freshness is key! Chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños bring a refreshing crunch that cuts the richness of the barbacoa, making every bite pleasing to the palate.
What’s better than chips in a savory dip? A bowl of spicy salsa provides a crispy prelude to the barbacoa experience.
Now, let’s dive into the world of tacos de barbacoa. I’ll share my story, insights, and a recipe that I believe will lead you to taco perfection.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Barbacoa:
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 pounds beef chuck roast or beef brisket
  • 2 dried guajillo chiles
  • 2 dried ancho chiles
  • 7 -ounce can of chipotles in adobo optional, for extra smoky and tangy flavor
  • 12 ounces beef broth
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • Juice from 1 large lime about 1/4 cup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano or regular oregano
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
  • 8-12 tortillas lightly toasted; corn or flour tortillas work well
  • Freshly chopped cilantro, for garnish
  • Chopped onion, for garnish
  • Sliced jalapeno, for garnish
  • Sliced radish, for garnish
  • Crumbled cotija cheese or a crumbly white cheese
  • Hot sauce use your favorite variety
Optional additions for extra flavor:
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander to enhance the depth
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a richer smoky flavor

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare The Ingredients
  1. Start by prepping your ingredients. Chop your onion, mince garlic, and cut your beef. If you’re like me and enjoy a tidy workspace, this makes the next steps much smoother!
Step 2: Toast The Chiles
  1. In a dry skillet, toast the dried guajillo and ancho chiles for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful; you want them toasted, not burnt. This step enhances their flavor and introduces a smoky undertone.
Step 3: Blend The Marinade
  1. Add the toasted chiles, garlic, chopped onion, chipotles in adobo, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, olive oil, oregano, cumin, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to a blender. Blend until smooth.
Step 4: Prepare The Beef
  1. Place the beef chunks in the slow cooker. Pour the blended marinade over the beef, coating it well.
Step 5: Slow Cook
  1. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. You want the meat to become tender and flavorful, melting away in the mouth.
Step 6: Shred The Meat
  1. Once the cooking time is done, use two forks to shred the beef. It should fall apart effortlessly.
Step 7: Assemble The Tacos
  1. Now for the fun part! Take your tortillas, layer on the shredded barbacoa, and top with your favorite garnishes like chopped cilantro, onion, jalapeño, radish, and cotija cheese. Serve them up hot, and don’t forget the hot sauce!

Notes

  • Choose the Right Meat: Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling. It helps keep the beef juicy.
  • Marinate Ahead of Time: With this recipe, flavors develop over time. Marinate the beef the night before for more flavor.
  • Don’t Skip the Chiles: Dried chiles bring incredible depth. If you're unsure, taste as you blend to ensure the balance works for you.
  • Tortilla Options: While corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas can be just as delicious. Use what you enjoy.
  • Serve with Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime really brightens up the flavors; don’t skip it!