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Barbacoa Bowl Chipotle Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Barbacoa Bowl Chipotle Recipe

I’ve always been a fan of creating restaurant-inspired bowls at home, and this barbacoa bowl Chipotle-style, has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. Packed with aromatic spices, tender shredded beef, and fresh toppings, it’s a perfect balance of hearty and flavorful.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the barbacoa beef:
  • 2 pounds beef chuck roast trimmed and cut into large pieces
  • 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1/3 cup apple cider
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 4 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 serrano chile pepper chopped (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper adjust for spice preference
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 bay leaves
  • For the barbacoa bowl
  • 2 cups cooked white or cilantro lime rice
  • 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup pico de gallo
  • 1/4 cup guacamole
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend

Method
 

  1. Begin by searing your beef pieces in a skillet with hot oil for a few seconds on each side. This locks in the flavor and gives the meat a nice crust. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
  2. Next, blend the chipotle peppers, apple cider, lime juice, garlic, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and garlic powder into a smooth sauce. Pour the sauce over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Stir in the broth, add the chopped onion and bay leaves, and set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. By the end, the beef will be fork-tender and shred effortlessly.
  3. While the beef is cooking, prepare your rice. You can keep it simple or jazz it up with lime juice and chopped cilantro for extra flavor. Use store-bought microwaveable rice if you’re short on time!
  4. Once the barbacoa is ready, shred the beef using two forks and discard the bay leaves. Now, it’s time to build your bowl. Start with a base of rice, then layer over your black beans, shredded lettuce, and the barbacoa beef. Add a scoop of guacamole, a dollop of sour cream, and a generous sprinkle of cheese. Top with fresh pico de gallo for a burst of freshness.
  5. Everyone loves a personalized meal! Set out extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, extra lime wedges, or tortilla strips so your guests or family can craft their perfect bowl.