Introduction
This delicious and hearty beef dish is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of tender beef chuck roast with robust flavors from chipotle chilis, diced chiles, and a mix of spices creates a meal that is sure to impress. Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but it can also be served in various ways—over rice, in tacos, or even as a topping for salads. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions for this flavorful dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
5 garlic cloves, minced
2 bay leaves
1/2 sweet onion, finely chopped
3 chipotle chilis in adobo sauce
2 (6-ounce) cans of diced chiles
Juice of 2 limes (about 1/4 cup)
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon Mexican oregano (or regular oregano)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours
Total Time
6-8 hours (plus 15 minutes resting time)
Yield
Serves 6-8
Instructions
1. Place the beef in the slow cooker along with the onion, bay leaves, and garlic.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the chipotle chilis, diced chiles, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, cumin, oregano, black pepper, salt, cloves, and beef broth. Mix well.
3. Pour the chipotle chili mixture over the beef.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and falls apart.
5. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the beef and return it to the slow cooker. Stir to combine with the juices.
6. Cover and let the slow cooker sit (turned off) for 15 minutes to allow the juices to soak in.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and chopped red onion.
8. Serve over rice for rice bowls, as a filling for tacos or quesadillas, or even over a salad.
Notes
Refrigerate the beef for up to 5 days in an airtight container or freeze for later.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by placing the beef chuck roast in the slow cooker. Add the finely chopped sweet onion, minced garlic, and bay leaves around the beef.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the chipotle chilis (with adobo sauce), diced chiles, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, ground cumin, Mexican oregano, black pepper, salt, ground cloves, and beef broth (or water). Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
Pour the chipotle chili mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring that it is evenly coated. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should become tender and easily shreddable.
Step 4: Shred the Beef
Once the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the beef directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded beef to mix it with the juices remaining in the pot for enhanced flavor.
Step 5: Let it Rest
After shredding, cover the slow cooker and turn it off. Allow it to sit for 15 minutes. This resting time helps the beef absorb the juices for maximum flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish the beef with fresh cilantro and chopped red onion. This dish can be served in various ways: over rice for rice bowls, as a filling for tacos or quesadillas, or even atop a salad for a hearty meal.
Notes
Storage Instructions
The cooked beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Alternatively, it can be frozen for later use.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
This technique allows for the beef chuck roast to become tender and flavorful as it cooks slowly over several hours, making it perfect for shredding.
Layering Flavors
By adding garlic, onion, and spices before the cooking process, you build a robust flavor profile that permeates the beef as it cooks.
Shredding
Once the beef is cooked, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, allowing it to soak in the cooking juices for enhanced taste and texture.
Garnishing
Adding fresh cilantro and chopped red onions at the end not only adds freshness but also visually enhances the dish.
Versatile Serving
This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, such as over rice, in tacos, or in quesadillas, providing diverse tasty options for meals.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, other cuts like brisket or round can also work, but may yield different textures and flavors.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness can vary based on the amount of chipotle chilis used. Adjust the amount to control the heat level.
Can I cook this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can braise it in the oven at 300°F for approximately 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender.
How should I store the leftovers?
Store the beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas for tacos, or even over salads for a hearty meal.
Conclusion
The slow-cooked beef chuck roast is a flavorful and versatile dish that can elevate any meal. With its tender texture and rich combination of spices, it’s perfect for a variety of servings, whether you’re looking to make tacos, rice bowls, or hearty salads. This recipe is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Taco Night
Use the shredded beef as a filling for soft or hard shell tacos. Top with fresh avocado, salsa, and cheese for an authentic touch.
Hearty Rice Bowl
Serve the beef over a bed of brown or white rice, adding black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes for a nutritious meal.
Quesadilla Delight
Spread the shredded beef between tortillas with cheese, then grill until crispy. Serve with sour cream and guacamole on the side.
Beef and Bean Chili
Incorporate the beef into a chili recipe along with kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and chili spices for a warming dish.
Stuffed Peppers
Mix the shredded beef with quinoa or rice and fill halved bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender for a delicious twist.
Salad Topper
Use the beef as a protein-packed topping for a green salad with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette.
Pie Filling
Create a savory beef pot pie by layering the shredded beef with vegetables and topping it with a flaky crust.
Breakfast Burrito
Wrap the beef with scrambled eggs and cheese in a tortilla for a hearty breakfast option.
