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Slow Cooker Barbacoa Recipe

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Slow Cooker Barbacoa Recipe for Tacos

This Slow Cooker Barbacoa Recipe transforms a chuck roast into a tender, flavorful dish perfect for tacos.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 hours
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meat
  • 3.5 pounds Boneless Chuck Roast The star of the show; this cut delivers fantastic flavor and tenderness.
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Essential for searing the meat; can substitute with olive oil.
For the Broth and Seasoning
  • 0.5 cup Low Sodium Beef Broth Keeps the meat moist and flavorful; can substitute with chicken broth.
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Adds warmth and depth; use less for a milder flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Imparts savory notes; fresh garlic can also be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Elevates flavor without chopping onions.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Infuses an earthy aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Offers sweetness and color.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Adds complexity and heat.
For Finishing Touches
  • 1 whole Lime Fresh squeeze enhances brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon Freshly Minced Cilantro Provides freshness as a garnish.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the boneless chuck roast and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until deeply browned.
  2. While the meat is searing, prepare your seasoning mix. In a medium bowl, combine kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Once the chuck roast is seared, transfer it to the slow cooker. Rub the spice mixture over the meat and pour in the low sodium beef broth.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-9 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
  5. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the meat in the slow cooker, mixing it with the juices. Squeeze fresh lime juice over and sprinkle with minced cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 34gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Searing the chuck roast enhances the flavor, but it's okay to skip if short on time. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to maintain temperature.

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