Introduction
Tacos are a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their versatility and robust flavors. This recipe combines tender barbacoa meat with a vibrant red tomatillo salsa, creating a delightful explosion of taste in every bite. Accompanied by fresh pico de gallo, shredded red cabbage, and cilantro, these tacos are sure to please any crowd.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Tacos:
– 2 cups barbacoa meat
– 8 small flour tortillas
– ½ cup red cabbage, shredded
– 2 limes, cut into wedges
– Fresh cilantro, for serving
– 2 cups pico de gallo
For the Red Tomatillo Salsa:
– 3 tomatillos
– ¼ white onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon A1 steak sauce
– 1½ limes, juiced
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Barbacoa Meat
Measure out 2 cups of barbacoa meat for the taco filling.
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F to warm up while you prepare the tacos.
Assemble the Tacos
Place ¼ cup of barbacoa meat onto each of the small flour tortillas. Squeeze a lime wedge over the meat on each taco for added flavor.
Arrange the Tacos
Use a taco rack or oven-safe ramekins placed on a baking sheet to hold the tacos upright during baking.
Bake the Tacos
Put the assembled tacos in the oven and bake for 5 minutes, until the tortillas are slightly crispy yet still pliable.
Add Toppings
Once baked, top each taco with red tomatillo salsa, pico de gallo, shredded red cabbage, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.
Preheat the Broiler
Before making the salsa, preheat your broiler in preparation for roasting the tomatillos.
Prepare the Tomatillos
Halve the tomatillos and place them cut-side down in an oven-safe baking dish. Position this dish about 5 inches under the broiler.
Broil the Tomatillos
Broil the tomatillos for 7 minutes, then flip them over and broil for another 7 minutes. After this, let them cool for 5 minutes.
Blend the Salsa Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the broiled tomatillos, chopped white onion, garlic cloves, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped cilantro, ground black pepper, A1 steak sauce, and the juice from 1½ limes. Pulse the mixture for about 15 seconds, or until smooth.
Notes
Serving Suggestion
Serve the tacos immediately after topping them to ensure freshness and optimal texture.
Tomatillo Salsa Storage
If making the salsa ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Customizing Your Tacos
Feel free to add additional toppings such as avocado or sour cream according to personal preference.
Meal Prep Tip
You can prepare the tomatillo salsa in advance to save time during meal prep.
Cook techniques
Preparing Barbacoa Meat
Use seasoned cuts of beef and slow-cook them until tender for authentic barbacoa flavor.
Heating Tortillas
Bake the tortillas in the oven to achieve a slightly crispy texture while keeping them pliable.
Broiling Tomatillos
Broil halved tomatillos to enhance their flavor through caramelization, creating a smoky taste for your salsa.
Combining Ingredients for Salsa
Use a food processor to blend cooked tomatillos with other salsa ingredients for a smooth consistency.
Assembling Tacos
Layer the cooked barbacoa, fresh toppings, and salsa in tortillas for a well-balanced flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option, though they may require a different cooking method.
What can I substitute for tomatillos?
Green tomatoes or a mixture of green pepper and lime juice can be used as a substitute for tomatillos.
Is the dish spicy?
The spiciness of the dish mainly comes from the chipotle peppers. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I prepare the salsa in advance?
Yes, the salsa can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a day or two for flavors to develop.
Conclusion
The combination of barbacoa tacos with red tomatillo salsa creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. The tender meat paired with the tangy salsa, fresh pico de gallo, and crunchy cabbage results in a satisfying meal perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner.
Spicy Black Bean Tacos
Use black beans as a filling and top with avocado slices, feta cheese, and a cilantro-lime dressing for a vegetarian twist.
Chicken Tacos with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Substitute barbacoa meat with shredded chicken and drizzle with a creamy avocado sauce made from ripe avocados, lime juice, and sour cream.
Grilled Vegetable Tacos
Fill the tortillas with a medley of grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and corn, garnishing them with queso fresco and lime juice for a fresh, vibrant option.
Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Use flaky white fish as the protein, and combine it with a refreshing mango salsa made from diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro for a tropical flair.
BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos
Blend pulled pork with barbecue sauce and serve with coleslaw on top for a smoky and savory alternative that will please the taste buds.
Breakfast Tacos
Scramble eggs with chorizo and cheese, and serve in tortillas topped with salsa and avocado for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
