Dutch Oven Barbacoa Recipe

Barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish known for its rich, tender, and flavorful meat, often served in tacos or alongside rice and beans. This Dutch oven barbacoa recipe brings the authentic flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen. With fall-apart beef, slow-cooked in spices, it’s perfect for making barbacoa tacos or tacos de barbacoa. Using a Dutch oven makes the cooking process easy and locks in all the savory flavors. You can serve this barbacoa in soft tortillas with toppings like onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for an authentic taco experience.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Beef: Traditional barbacoa uses beef chuck or brisket for tender, slow-cooked results. Substitute with lamb or goat for a different take.
• Chipotle Peppers: These add smokiness and heat. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the quantity.
• Mexican Spices: Cumin, oregano, and cloves give the meat that authentic barbacoa flavor.
• Substitutions: For gluten-free, make sure the beef broth is gluten-free. You can use chicken or vegetable broth if needed.

Step-by-Step Directions

• Prep the Meat:
• Season your beef with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano. In the Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat and sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
• Make the Sauce:
• Blend together chipotle peppers, garlic, onions, beef broth, vinegar, and spices to make a smooth sauce. This will be the flavor base for your barbacoa.
• Cook the Meat:
• Pour the sauce over the beef in the Dutch oven. Add bay leaves. Cover and cook in a preheated oven at 325°F for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
• Shred the Beef:
• Once cooked, remove the meat from the Dutch oven and shred it with two forks. Discard the bay leaves and return the shredded meat to the sauce.
• Simmer and Reduce:
• Allow the shredded beef to simmer in the sauce uncovered on low heat for another 15-20 minutes to absorb all the flavors and thicken slightly.
• Serve:
• Serve your Dutch oven barbacoa in warm tortillas for authentic barbacoa tacos. Top with cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime.

Pro Tips

• Marinate the beef overnight for deeper flavor.
• If you like it spicy, add extra chipotle peppers or serve with a spicy salsa.
• For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika.