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Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef Barbacoa

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Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef Barbacoa is a smoky, spicy, and tender shredded beef dish slow-cooked in a flavorful chipotle and spice blend. It’s perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, and more, making it ideal for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 3–4 lbs beef chuck roast, boneless
  • 2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)

Instructions

  1. Cut the beef chuck roast into large chunks and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Optional: Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the beef on all sides until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, garlic, onion, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, cumin, oregano, cloves, and 1/2 cup of broth. Blend until smooth.
  4. Pour the blended sauce over the beef in the slow cooker.
  5. Add bay leaves and the remaining 1/2 cup of broth.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 5–6 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
  7. Remove the beef and shred it using two forks.
  8. Return the shredded beef to the sauce and mix well. Discard the bay leaves before serving.

Notes

  • Add orange juice for a hint of sweetness that balances the spice.
  • You can use brisket or beef round if chuck roast is unavailable.
  • Make it Paleo/Whole30 by using sugar-free chipotle in adobo.
  • Freeze leftovers for future meals—this dish reheats well.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/slow-cooker-chipotle-beef-barbacoa/