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Authentic Beef Barbacoa Tacos

Tender, slow-cooked shredded beef marinated in a rich chili sauce, served on corn tortillas with fresh radishes and cotija cheese.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican, Street Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Beef & Marinade
  • 3 lbs chuck roast cut into chunks
  • 4 dried guajillo chilies seeded
  • 2 dried ancho chilies seeded
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp Mexican oregano
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo
Assembly
  • 12 corn tortillas
  • 1 bunch cilantro chopped
  • 6 radishes sliced thin
  • 0.5 cup cotija cheese crumbled

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Blender
  • Skillet
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Toast dried chilies in a dry skillet, then soak in hot water for 15 minutes.
  2. Sear beef chunks in a skillet with oil until browned on all sides.
  3. Blend soaked chilies, broth, vinegar, garlic, and spices until smooth to create sauce.
  4. Place beef in slow cooker, pour sauce over, and cook on LOW for 8 hours.
  5. Shred the tender beef with two forks and toss in the cooking juices.
  6. Warm tortillas on a griddle, fill with beef, and top with cilantro, onion, radish, and cheese.
  7. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

Dip the tortillas in the beef consommé before frying for an authentic Birria-style crunch.