Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Barbacoa Recipe (Chipotle Copycat) Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 4 reviews

This Barbacoa recipe is a flavorful and tender shredded beef dish inspired by Chipotle’s iconic style. Slow-cooked to perfection with smoky chipotle chiles, garlic, and spices, it’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after several hours of slow cooking, infused with tangy lime and vinegar notes.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Beef

  • 3 lb Beef brisket or chuck roast (trimmed and cut into 2-inch chunks)

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 1/2 cup Beef broth or chicken broth
  • 2 medium Chipotle chiles in adobo (including the sauce, about 4 tsp)
  • 5 cloves Garlic (minced or coarsely chopped)
  • 2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Lime juice
  • 1 tbsp Dried oregano
  • 2 tsp Cumin
  • 2 tsp Sea salt
  • 1 tsp Black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Ground cloves (optional)
  • 2 whole Bay leaves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: Combine the broth, chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, garlic, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, dried oregano, cumin, sea salt, black pepper, and ground cloves in a blender. Puree until smooth to create a rich, flavorful marinade.
  2. Arrange beef in slow cooker: Place the beef chunks into the slow cooker evenly. Pour the pureed sauce mixture on top, making sure the beef is well coated. Add the whole bay leaves for aromatic flavor.
  3. Cook the beef: Set the slow cooker to high and cook for 4-6 hours, or on low for 8-10 hours. The beef should be fork-tender and fall-apart soft once done.
  4. Shred and rest: Remove the bay leaves from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the beef directly in the pot and stir it into the cooking juices. Cover and let it rest for 5-10 minutes so the meat absorbs even more flavor.
  5. Serve: Use a slotted spoon to plate the shredded barbacoa. It’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or any favorite Mexican dishes.

Notes

  • Beef brisket or chuck roast works best due to their fat content and texture for shredding.
  • Adjust chipotle peppers quantity to control heat level.
  • Ground cloves are optional but add a subtle warm, aromatic note.
  • Use apple cider vinegar and lime juice for tangy brightness that balances smoky heat.
  • You can make this in the morning and let it cook all day for convenience.
  • If you don’t have a slow cooker, this recipe can also be adapted for an oven braise at 300°F for 3-4 hours covered tightly in a Dutch oven.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours 0 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/barbacoa-recipe-chipotle-copycat-recipe/