Jul 09 2026
Restaurants›The Original Carolina's Mexican Food›Shredded Beef (crisp) Recipe

Shredded Beef (crisp) Recipe

Inspired by The Original Carolina's Mexican Food
Time2h 30m
Serves4

Make Shredded Beef (crisp) Recipe in just 2h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Beef & Seasoning

Tortillas & Toppings

Method

Beef & Seasoning

  1. 1

    Make the spice rub

    In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Mix well.

  2. 2

    Sear the roast

    Pat the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Rub the roast with a little more olive oil and sear on all sides until deeply browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

  3. 3

    Braise the beef

    In the same pot, add the sliced yellow onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent. Return the roast to the pot, pour in beef broth and fresh lime juice, and add bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, cover, and braise in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 2.5–3 hours, or on the stove until fork-tender.

  4. 4

    Shred and crisp

    Transfer the beef to a cutting board and shred with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes to let the edges crisp and the liquid reduce. Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

  5. 5

    Finish flavor

    Stir in additional lime juice to brighten and adjust seasoning. Keep the beef warm.

Tortillas & Toppings

  1. 6

    Toast and warm tortillas

    Lightly brush each tortilla with neutral oil and toast in a dry skillet or on a hot griddle for about 15–20 seconds per side until blistered and pliable. Wrap in a clean cloth to keep warm.

  2. 7

    Prepare toppings

    Dice 1/2 cup white onion and chop 1/4 cup cilantro. Slice avocado and cut lime wedges. Crumble 1/2 cup cotija cheese. Have 1 cup pico de gallo ready.

  3. 8

    Assemble tacos

    Place a portion of the crisped shredded beef on each tortilla. Top with onion, cilantro, pico de gallo, cotija, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

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