Name: Slow Cooker Barbacoa Beef Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 5 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 lbs beef brisket; 4 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 2 teaspoons black pepper; 2 teaspoons cumin; 1 ½ teaspoons Mexican oregano; 1 canned chipotle pepper (add more if you like it spicy); 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers; 1 cup beef broth; Chopped cilantro; Street taco shells; Salsa; Finely sliced red onion

Description

This Slow Cooker Barbacoa Beef recipe is a deliciously tender and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish slow-cooked to perfection. Made with beef brisket, chipotle peppers, and aromatic spices, it’s ideal for tacos, burritos, or as a hearty meal on its own. The slow cooking method ensures the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender with a smoky, spicy flavor that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef and Seasonings

4 lbs beef brisket
4 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon sea salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
2 teaspoons cumin
1 ½ teaspoons Mexican oregano
1 canned chipotle pepper (add more if you like it spicy)
1 tablespoon adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers
1 cup beef broth

To Serve

Chopped cilantro
Street taco shells
Salsa
Finely sliced red onion

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Instructions

Prepare the beef and seasoning: Place the beef brisket into the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, cumin, Mexican oregano, canned chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, and beef broth. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients and ensure the beef is well coated with the seasonings.
Slow cook the beef: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the brisket to become tender and infused with the smoky, spicy flavors of the chipotle and spices.
Shred the beef: After the cooking time is complete, remove the brisket from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker juices to soak up the flavor.
Serve: Spoon the shredded barbacoa beef into street taco shells or tortillas. Garnish with chopped cilantro, finely sliced red onion, and salsa for a fresh and vibrant finish. It can also be served over rice or on top of a salad for a versatile meal option.

Notes

For extra heat, add more chipotle peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker.
Leftover barbacoa beef keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
You can substitute beef brisket with chuck roast for a similar tender result.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce excess liquid.
Serve with lime wedges for added brightness and a touch of acidity.