Barbacoa Beef Bowls
Barbacoa Beef Bowls are a flavorful and hearty Mexican-inspired dish that perfectly combines tender, slow-cooked beef with vibrant spices. The rich, smoky meat pairs beautifully with fresh toppings and rice, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, gatherings, or a satisfying weeknight meal.
The term 'barbacoa' originates from indigenous Mexican methods of slow-cooking meat over an open fire or in pit ovens, resulting in irresistibly tender and flavorful beef. Over time, barbacoa has evolved from an traditional method into a popular street food and home-cooked favorite, celebrated for its depth of flavor and versatility in dishes like these beef bowls.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 3 tbsp adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups cooked rice
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, lime wedges, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides.
- 2
Transfer the seared beef to a slow cooker and add minced garlic, chopped onion, adobo sauce, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
- 3
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until meat is tender and easily shredded.
- 4
Once cooked, shred the beef with two forks directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the cooking juices.
- 5
Prepare bowls by placing cooked rice at the base. Top with the shredded barbacoa beef.
- 6
Add your favorite toppings such as diced tomatoes, cilantro, radishes, a squeeze of lime, shredded cheese, or sour cream.
- 7
Serve warm and enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of your homemade Barbacoa Beef Bowls.