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Slow Cooker Barbacoa Recipe

Slow Cooker Barbacoa Recipe: Tender Tacos for Family Nights

This Slow Cooker Barbacoa recipe offers a flavorful and effortless dinner option for the whole family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 hours
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 tacos
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 3.5 pounds Boneless Chuck Roast Ideal for slow cooking, becomes tender.
For the Marinade
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Can substitute with canola or olive oil.
  • 0.5 cup Low Sodium Beef Broth Can use vegetable broth for variation.
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt Sea salt is an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Taco seasoning can be used instead.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic is a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onions can be used for fresher taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin A staple in Mexican cuisine.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Adjust for personal heat preference.
  • 1 unit Lime Juiced for brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon Freshly Minced Cilantro Optional garnishing.

Equipment

  • slow cooker
  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Barbacoa Recipe
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the boneless chuck roast for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
  2. Combine salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and paprika in a small bowl to create a seasoning mix.
  3. Transfer the roast to the slow cooker, rub the seasoning mix all over the meat, then add ½ cup of low sodium beef broth.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-9 hours until the meat is tender and shreddable.
  5. Shred the beef in the slow cooker with two forks and squeeze lime juice over it before serving, garnished with cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 52gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 680mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Searing the meat improves flavor and texture. Don't lift the lid while cooking. Allow the barbacoa to rest before shredding for best flavor distribution.

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