Chipotle Barbacoa Recipe

chipotle peppers

🥗Healthier: smoked paprika

💰Cheaper: canned jalapeños

Smoked paprika provides a similar smoky flavor without the heat.

beef chuck roast

🥗Healthier: pork shoulder

💰Cheaper: beef brisket

Pork shoulder is often less expensive and has a similar texture.

To make the marinade, in the bowl of a food processor or blender, add garlic, adobo sauce, ancho chile powder, olive oil, cumin, dried oregano, cloves, 1 tablespoon salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Blend until smooth (add water if needed to fully blend the marinade).

Sprinkle beef liberally on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil until shimmering over medium-high heat.

Add beef and cook until browned on one side, about 5 minutes. Flip the beef and continue cooking until the other side is brown, about 10 minutes total.

Transfer to a slow cooker and top with marinade, turning to coat. Add water and bay leaves. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 to 6 hours or low for 8 to 10 hours, until the fat is melted and the meat falls apart easily.

Remove both bay leaves and shred the beef with two forks. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with your favorite burrito toppings such as rice, beans, guacamole, and salsa.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: