Beef barbacoa is a savory and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners. This easy recipe delivers juicy, fork-tender beef in a rich gravy, making it a standout that’s worth making immediately. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s not only delicious but also great for meal prep.
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Beef Barbacoa Recipe
What is Beef Barbacoa?
Beef barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish known for its rich and hearty flavor. Typically, it involves slow-cooking beef until it’s tender and flavorful. This recipe uses an Instant Pot, allowing you to achieve that delicious, melt-in-your-mouth result in under an hour.
Flavor Profile of Beef Barbacoa
The flavor of beef barbacoa is deep and savory, highlighted by the warmth of garlic and onion, complemented by herbs like thyme. The Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy depth, while slow cooking develops a luscious gravy that’s perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Ingredients for Beef Barbacoa
Essential Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons oil (high smoke point, e.g., vegetable, canola, peanut, grapeseed, avocado)
- 2 pounds stew meat (or cubed chuck)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 sweet onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch + 3 tablespoons water
Optional Ingredients
- Mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles (for serving)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Beef Barbacoa
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by seasoning your stew meat with salt and pepper. This step enhances the beef’s flavor. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic, ensuring they’re ready to infuse the dish with their aromatic goodness.
Cooking Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in the Instant Pot on the “Sauté” setting (high).
- Brown half of the seasoned meat on both sides, then remove and repeat with the remainder.
- Add the last tablespoon of oil and diced onion to the pot. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. This releases all those lovely browned bits.
- Return the browned beef along with Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, and thyme.
- Close the lid, seal the pressure valve, and cook on HIGH pressure for 25 minutes. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes.
- Carefully release the remaining pressure and open the lid when the float valve drops.
- Set the pot to “Sauté” again. Mix cornstarch with water until dissolved, then add to the pot. Cook until the gravy thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve the beef and gravy over your choice of mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Tips for Perfect Beef Barbacoa
For an even richer flavor, sear your meat until browned before cooking. The optional side dishes include Parmesan Brussels sprouts or roasted baby carrots, which pair wonderfully with this savory dish.
Serving Suggestions
Best Side Dishes for Beef Barbacoa
Beef barbacoa shines when served with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. The gravy seeps into the starches, creating a delightful bite. Egg noodles also make a fantastic base, soaking up the savory flavors.
Garnishes and Accompaniments
Fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch, brightening the dish. You might also consider serving some warm tortillas on the side for a fun, interactive meal. Everyone loves wrapping the succulent beef in a soft tortilla!
Storage and Reheating
Proper Storage Techniques
Leftover beef barbacoa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to maintain the best texture.
How to Reheat Leftovers
To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it until heated through, being careful not to overcook.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for beef barbacoa?
You need stew meat, oil, onion, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, thyme, and cornstarch along with water.
How do I make beef barbacoa step by step?
Brown the meat, sauté onions and garlic, deglaze with broth, add seasonings, pressure cook, and thicken with cornstarch.
Can I make beef barbacoa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
How should I store leftover beef barbacoa?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Related Recipes to try
Conclusion
This beef barbacoa is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Its rich flavors make it an unforgettable dish you’ll want to share. For more inspiring recipes, check us out on Pinterest for ideas that will elevate your home cooking. Enjoy every bite!
Beef Barbacoa: Flavorful and Easy Comfort Food
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons oil high smoke point, e.g., vegetable, canola, peanut, grapeseed, avocado
- 2 pounds stew meat or cubed chuck
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 sweet onion finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 sprig fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons water
- Mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in the Instant Pot on the ‘Sauté’ setting and brown half of the seasoned stew meat, then set aside.
- Add remaining oil and diced onion to the pot, cooking until tender, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot, then return the browned beef along with Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, and thyme.
- Seal the lid and cook on HIGH pressure for 25 minutes, allowing a natural release for 10 minutes.
- Release pressure, open the lid, and set the pot to ‘sauté’ again.
- Mix cornstarch with water until dissolved, add to the pot, and cook until gravy thickens.
- Serve the beef and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.