Barbacoa Dutch Oven

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 8-10 hours

Additional Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes - 10 hours 30 minutes

Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast or brisket
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, minced
• 2 tbsp adobo sauce (from the can of chipotles)
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Lime wedges, for serving

Steps to Cook:

1. Trim any excess fat from the beef and cut it into 2-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the beef, onion, garlic, chipotle chiles, adobo sauce, cumin, oregano, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the beef.
3. Transfer the beef mixture to a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. Pour in the beef broth (or water) and add the bay leaves and cinnamon stick.
4. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and place it in a preheated 300°F oven. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until the beef is very tender and shreds easily with a fork.
5. Remove the pot from the oven and let the barbacoa cool slightly. Using two forks, shred the beef directly in the pot.
6. Discard the bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Taste the barbacoa and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or adobo sauce to taste.
7. Serve the barbacoa warm, with lime wedges on the side. The barbacoa can be used in tacos, burritos, tostadas, or as a protein-packed topping for salads or rice bowls.

Cook’s Note:

• If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can sear the beef cubes in a hot skillet before adding them to the Dutch oven.
• For a spicier version, add more chipotle chiles or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• The barbacoa can be made a day or two in advance and reheated before serving. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Serve the barbacoa with your favorite toppings, such as diced onion, chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

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