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When you’re craving smoky, tender meat with a rich chili kick, these zesty Chipotle Barbacoa Tacos check all the boxes. Slow-cooked beef is infused with chipotle peppers in adobo, warming spices, and tangy lime juice—perfect for stuffing into soft tortillas, topping a bowl of cilantro-lime rice, or piling on crisp tostadas.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped (plus 2 tablespoons of the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Soft tortillas, for serving
- Your favorite taco toppings (chopped cilantro, diced onions, salsa, etc.)
Instructions
Begin by seasoning the beef chunks generously with salt and black pepper. Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides, working in batches if necessary—the key is building those savory caramelized flavors. Transfer the seared meat to a slow cooker.
In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, and a spoonful of adobo sauce for an instant wave of smoky heat. Stir in the cumin, oregano, and cloves, letting these aromatic spices toast gently for about a minute. Pour in the lime juice and beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. This flavorful mixture goes right into the slow cooker with the beef.
Cover and cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Shred the meat directly in the slow cooker, allowing it to soak up the seasoned liquids. Warm up your tortillas, spoon on the barbacoa, and top it with fresh cilantro, onions, and your favorite salsa.
This smoky, chipotle-spiked barbacoa is a true comfort dish for spice lovers, meal preppers, and anyone looking to make mealtime special with minimal effort. You can lighten it up by using leaner cuts of beef or substituting turkey or pork, and you can omit the peppers if you prefer a milder taste. Whether you serve it in tacos, bowls, or burritos, this versatile recipe is a perfect blend of warmth, zest, and convenience—great for cozy weeknights or festive gatherings.
