Name: Pot Barbacoa Beef: 7 Steps to Tender Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1-2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 pound chuck roast, cut into 2″ cubes; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste); 1 medium onion, chopped; 6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped; 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce; ¼ cup lime juice (3-4 limes); ¼ cup apple cider vinegar; 6 ounce lager beer (1/2 bottle) or 3/4 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 3 bay leaves

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Pot Barbacoa Beef is a mouthwatering dish that transforms your dinner table into a Mexican fiesta. This recipe delivers tender, flavorful shredded beef with a smoky, spicy chipotle kick that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls. Every bite bursts with rich flavors, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Let’s dive into this satisfying dish that not only pleases the palate but also brings joy to the cooking experience!

Why You’ll Love This Pot Barbacoa Beef

This recipe is a true gem for several reasons. First, it utilizes the Instant Pot, making the cooking process quick and efficient, perfect for a slow cooker barbacoa beef alternative. Second, the combination of chipotle peppers, lime juice, and spices creates an authentic Mexican barbacoa beef flavor that transports you straight to the heart of Mexico. Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile; you can serve it in barbacoa beef tacos, as a main dish, or use it for burritos. This easy barbacoa beef recipe is also gluten-free, accommodating various dietary preferences!

Ingredients for Pot Barbacoa Beef

Gather these items:

1-2 tablespoons olive oil
3 pound chuck roast, cut into 2″ cubes
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
1 medium onion, chopped
6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
¼ cup lime juice (3-4 limes)
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
6 ounce lager beer (1/2 bottle) or 3/4 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
1 tablespoon brown sugar
3 bay leaves

How to Make Pot Barbacoa Beef Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in your Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Sear the beef for 1-2 minutes on each side, working in batches if necessary to avoid crowding.
Step 2: Add onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, lager beer, ground cumin, dried oregano, ground cloves, and brown sugar to a blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Pour the blended sauce over the seared beef in the Instant Pot. Add the bay leaves and stir to coat the beef evenly. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set to cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. When done, perform a quick release of the pressure.
Step 4: Remove and discard the bay leaves. Take the beef out of the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir well to mix with the sauce. Let the beef sit for 10 minutes to absorb more flavor before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pot Barbacoa Beef

Keep these in mind:

Choose a high-quality chuck roast for the best flavor and tenderness.
For added depth, marinate the beef overnight with the spices and chipotle.
Serve with fresh lime wedges and cilantro for an authentic touch.

Best Ways to Serve Pot Barbacoa Beef

There are countless ways to enjoy this dish! You can make barbacoa beef tacos topped with diced onions and fresh cilantro, or use it as a filling for burritos. Additionally, it makes a fantastic filling for nachos or as a topping on rice bowls. Pair it with a side of homemade guacamole for a complete meal!

How to Store and Reheat Pot Barbacoa Beef

To store leftover Pot Barbacoa Beef, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. This is also a great dish for meal prep; just make a big batch and store it for easy meals throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pot Barbacoa Beef

What is barbacoa beef?

Barbacoa beef is a traditional Mexican dish made from slow-cooked beef, often seasoned with spices and herbs. It is typically shredded and served in tacos or burritos, making it a versatile and flavorful option for meals.

Can I make Pot Barbacoa Beef ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Pot Barbacoa Beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or for serving at gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pot Barbacoa Beef?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you properly sear the beef to lock in flavors and use quality ingredients for the best taste. Additionally, follow the cooking times closely for perfectly tender results.

Variations of Pot Barbacoa Beef You Can Try

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider these variations:

Substitute beef with pork for a different flavor profile.
Add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for additional nutrition.
Experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika or chili powder, to customize the taste.