20 Best Authentic Mexican Barbacoa Recipe Unlock Flavor Sensations!

Ingredients

1. Beef Cheeks

Beef cheeks are the star of this dish and are essential for achieving authentic barbacoa. They are a tough, collagen-rich cut of meat that is perfect for slow cooking. Look for beef cheeks at your local butcher or Mexican grocery store. If you can't find them, you can also use beef chuck or brisket.

2. Chiles

Chiles are a key ingredient in Mexican cuisine and add a depth of flavor to the barbacoa. Ancho chiles, guajillo chiles, and pasilla chiles are commonly used in this recipe. They provide a mild heat and a smoky, slightly sweet flavor. If you prefer a spicier barbacoa, you can also add in some chipotle chiles.

3. Aromatics

Garlic, onion, and cumin are the aromatics used in this recipe. They add a fragrant and savory element to the barbacoa and complement the flavors of the chiles.

4. Citrus

Both lime and orange juice are used in this recipe to add a tangy and bright flavor to the barbacoa. They also help to tenderize the meat and balance out the rich flavors.

5. Beef Broth

Beef broth is used to provide moisture and depth of flavor to the barbacoa. You can use store-bought beef broth or make your own at home for an even richer flavor.

Instructions

1. Begin by soaking the dried chiles in hot water for 10 minutes. Once softened, remove the stems and seeds and place the chiles in a blender. 2. Add in the garlic, onion, cumin, lime juice, orange juice, and beef broth to the blender. Blend until a smooth paste forms. 3. In a slow cooker, place the beef cheeks and pour the chile paste over them, making sure they are evenly coated. 4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the beef is tender and falls apart easily. 5. Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. 6. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining sauce. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. 7. Serve the barbacoa in warm tortillas with your choice of toppings, such as diced onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Conclusion

Making authentic Mexican barbacoa at home may seem intimidating, but with this recipe, you can recreate the flavors of Mexico in your own kitchen. The combination of tender beef, flavorful chiles, and aromatic spices will have you coming back for more. So next time you're craving some delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine, give this barbacoa recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your newfound cooking skills. ¡Buen provecho!