Healthy Food Recipes: Dutch Oven Barbacoa

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 8-10 hours

Additional Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 8-10.5 hours

Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast or brisket
• 1 white onion, diced
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, minced
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth or stock
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 bay leaves
• Lime wedges, for serving (optional)

Steps to Cook:

1. Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season it all over with the salt and black pepper.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, sear the beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the seared beef to a plate.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, chipotle chiles, cumin, oregano, coriander, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in the beef broth and apple cider vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Return the seared beef to the pot and add the bay leaves. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
7. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to a preheated 300°F oven. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until the beef is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
8. Remove the pot from the oven and transfer the beef to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
9. Skim any excess fat from the cooking liquid, then return the shredded beef to the pot and stir to combine.
10. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if desired.
11. Serve the barbacoa in warm tortillas, on top of rice or salads, or however you prefer. Garnish with lime wedges, if desired.

Cook’s Note:

• For best results, cook the barbacoa a day in advance. The flavors will meld and intensify as it sits. Reheat gently before serving.
• The cooking time may vary depending on the size and shape of your beef cut. Check it periodically and adjust the time as needed.
• If the liquid evaporates too quickly during cooking, add more beef broth or water as needed to keep the meat submerged.
• For a spicier version, add an extra chipotle chile or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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