Go Back

Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa

This beef barbacoa is made by slow-cooking seasoned beef with smoky spices and vinegar until tender and shreddable. The dish develops a rich, saucy texture with a deep, smoky aroma, perfect for filling tacos or burritos. The final result is juicy, flavorful shredded beef with a slightly charred, appetizing appearance.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds beef chuck roast cut into large chunks
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon cumin ground
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon oregano dried
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup water

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Skillet
  • Fork or tongs

Method
 

  1. Begin by seasoning the beef chunks with a mix of cumin, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, and salt. Massage the spices into the meat so they adhere well, filling your kitchen with a fragrant aroma.
  2. Place the seasoned beef into the slow cooker, then pour in the minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and water. This combination helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with smoky, tangy flavors.
  3. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the beef cook gently for about 4 hours until it becomes fall-apart tender and easily shredded with a fork.
  4. Once cooked, transfer the beef chunks onto a large plate or cutting board. Use two forks or tongs to shred the beef into thin, juicy strands, allowing the meat's rich juices to be absorbed.
  5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shredded beef. Cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently, until the edges are slightly charred and crispy, enhancing the smoky flavors.
  6. Remove the beef from the skillet once it reaches your preferred level of charring. Serve it hot in tacos, bowls, or enjoy as is—a deeply flavorful, tender, and slightly crispy meat.

Notes

For best flavor, let the beef rest for a few minutes after cooking before shredding. Adjust seasoning as needed before browning.