Chipotle Barbacoa Recipe

Cook Time: 365 minutes

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 (2 pound) beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 4 to 6 pieces
• 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• cup apple cider
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled (or more to taste)
• 4 teaspoons cumin
• 1 serrano chile pepper, chopped (Optional)
• 1 tablespoon ground cayenne pepper (or more to taste, Optional)
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• teaspoon salt
• teaspoon ground cloves (or to taste)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 bay leaves

Directions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over low heat, gradually increasing the heat to medium-high. Once hot, cook the beef pieces in the oil until they are browned, about 10 seconds per side. Transfer the browned beef to a slow cooker.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, apple cider, lime juice, garlic, cumin, serrano pepper (if using), cayenne pepper (if using), oregano, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, and cloves. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the blended sauce over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring the beef is fully coated.
4. Add the chicken broth, chopped onion, and bay leaves into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beef shreds easily with a fork.
6. Remove the beef from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred the meat. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce before serving.

Cook's Note

This recipe is on the spicy side due to the cayenne and serrano peppers. Adjust the heat according to your taste preferences if you're not a fan of spicy food, feel free to reduce or omit these ingredients.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Facts (per serving)	Amount
Calories	244
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	71mg
Sodium	449mg
Total Carbohydrate	7g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	22g
Vitamin C	6mg
Calcium	44mg
Iron	4mg
Potassium	277mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This Chipotle-inspired barbacoa recipe is a fiery, flavorful dish made with beef chuck roast cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. The tender, seasoned meat is perfect for tacos, burritos, or served with rice and beans. But what makes this dish so special? Lets dive into the history, regional variations, and fun facts surrounding this iconic Mexican recipe.

History of Barbacoa

Barbacoa has deep roots in traditional Mexican cuisine, originating from the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean and Mexico. The word "barbacoa" is derived from the Taino word "barabicu," which referred to a wooden structure used for cooking meat over an open fire. Historically, barbacoa was made with goat, lamb, or beef, which was slow-cooked in a pit, allowing the meat to become tender and infused with smoky flavors. Over time, the technique spread across Latin America and eventually evolved into the modern barbacoa that is popular today. In its contemporary form, especially in regions like northern Mexico and the southwestern United States, barbacoa often involves slow-cooking beef, such as chuck roast or brisket, in a flavorful broth seasoned with chilies, garlic, and spices.

Regional Differences

While barbacoa is enjoyed throughout Mexico and beyond, the preparation varies depending on the region. In central Mexico, lamb is commonly used, while in northern Mexico, beef is preferred. In some areas, particularly in the United States, barbacoa is often served in a spicy, smoky chipotle sauce, which is exactly what the Chipotle Barbacoa recipe captures. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add a deep smokiness to the dish, making it distinct from other versions that may focus more on herbs or milder chili varieties. In fact, barbacoa made with chipotle peppers is more commonly found in Tex-Mex and Southwestern cuisines.

What Sets Chipotle Barbacoa Apart?

What makes Chipotle's version of barbacoa unique is the use of slow-cooked beef that is perfectly tender and juicy. While traditional barbacoa recipes typically use cuts like beef cheek or head meat, this recipe uses chuck roast, which is marinated with an aromatic blend of chipotle peppers, garlic, lime, and various spices. The slow-cooking process in a crockpot ensures that the beef becomes incredibly tender and easy to shred. This version also incorporates a rich, smoky sauce with a mild level of heat, making it stand out from other barbacoa dishes that might emphasize heat over flavor.

Where Is Barbacoa Typically Served?

Barbacoa is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. It is most commonly found in tacos, burritos, or served with rice and beans. In traditional Mexican cooking, barbacoa is often enjoyed as part of a festive meal or family gathering. In the U.S., Chipotle Barbacoa is a popular option for making burrito bowls, tacos, and quesadillas. The richness and smokiness of the meat complement the fresh and zesty toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsas, making it a crowd-pleaser at any Mexican-inspired meal.

Fun Facts About Chipotle Barbacoa

• Chipotle Barbacoa is often regarded as a healthier alternative to other fast-food options due to its lean beef and flavorful yet simple ingredients.
• The slow-cooked meat used in barbacoa is a great source of protein and essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
• While Chipotle's version uses beef, many home cooks also experiment with chicken or even pork as a base for their barbacoa, each adding its own unique twist to the dish.
• Though Chipotle has become synonymous with this particular style of barbacoa, the chains take on the dish is based on classic Mexican barbacoa traditions but adapted for modern tastes with bold flavors and a focus on freshness.
• Barbacoa was originally cooked in an underground pit, a method that imparts a rich, smoky flavor to the meat. This technique is still practiced in some regions of Mexico today, where the meat is cooked in the earth for hours to achieve maximum tenderness and flavor.

FAQ about Chipotle Barbacoa Recipe

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