Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Zapata's Mexican Restaurant›Barbacoa Taco Recipe

Barbacoa Taco Recipe

Time8h
Serves8

Slow-cooked beef with onions and cilantro.

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Ingredients

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Meat

Spices and Seasonings

Vegetables

Taco Assembly

Method

Preparation of the Beef

  1. 1

    Sear the Beef

    In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Slow Cooker

    Transfer the seared beef to a slow cooker. Add the beef broth, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.

  3. 3

    Chop Vegetables

    Chop the large onion and mince the garlic cloves. Add them to the slow cooker.

Cooking

  1. 4

    Set the Slow Cooker

    Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Finishing Touches

  1. 5

    Shred the Beef

    Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker to mix with the juices.

  2. 6

    Prepare Cilantro

    Chop the fresh cilantro and set aside for garnish.

Taco Assembly

  1. 7

    Warm the Tortillas

    In a dry skillet, warm the corn tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.

  2. 8

    Assemble the Tacos

    Place a generous amount of the barbacoa beef on each tortilla. Top with chopped cilantro and sliced radishes.

  3. 9

    Serve

    Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.

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