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–+ servings
Slow Cooker Barbacoa

Tender Slow Cooker Barbacoa for Flavorful Family Meals

Discover the rich and flavorful slow cooker barbacoa, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 hours
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cooking Base
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil Can substitute with olive oil.
  • 3.5 lbs Boneless chuck roast Opt for fresh, high-quality meat.
  • 0.5 cup Low sodium beef broth Use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
For the Seasoning Mix
  • 1 tbsp Kosher salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tbsp Chili powder Use less for a milder taste.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder Can substitute with fresh garlic (1-2 cloves, minced).
  • 1 tsp Onion powder Fresh onion can be added (1 small, diced).
  • 1 tsp Cumin Key for authentic flavor.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika can be used for deeper flavor.
  • 1 tsp Freshly ground black pepper Use to taste.
For Garnishing
  • 1 Lime For juice, fresh lemon juice can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Freshly minced cilantro Omit for those who dislike cilantro.

Equipment

  • slow cooker
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Barbacoa
  1. Heat a large skillet over high heat and add vegetable oil. Once shimmering, carefully place the boneless chuck roast into the skillet, searing it for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it develops a rich brown crust.
  2. In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir the spices together until well blended.
  3. Once the roast is seared, transfer it to the slow cooker. Generously sprinkle the spice mix over the meat, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Pour the low-sodium beef broth around the roast for moisture.
  4. Set your slow cooker to low and allow it to cook for 8-9 hours.
  5. After cooking, check the roast for tenderness—it should pull apart easily with a fork. Shred the meat right in the slow cooker and mix it with the flavorful juices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgSugar: 1gVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Consider preparing the seasoning mix the night before for better flavor and convenience.

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