Beef Barbacoa Tacos

Name: Beef Barbacoa Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef brisket; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 onions, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 cup beef broth; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; Chopped cilantro; Lime wedges; Sour cream (optional); Pickled onions (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Dish Recipes

I love making Beef Barbacoa Tacos, as they remind me of cozy family gatherings and vibrant celebrations. The slow-cooked, tender beef fills each taco with an irresistible blend of spices that dance on your taste buds. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family, or even just a cozy night in. I enjoy playing with the toppings, from zesty lime to fresh cilantro, creating a balance of flavors that make every bite delightful.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:22:28.440Z

When I first tried making Beef Barbacoa Tacos, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it could be. I used a traditional recipe that called for searing the beef and then slow cooking it with vibrant spices. This method allowed the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, tender result that was simply irresistible. Transforming my kitchen into an aromatic haven, it was hard to resist not tasting it before serving!

My favorite aspect was the way the brisket practically fell apart after the long cooking time. I discovered that cooking it low and slow really enhances the flavors. I also loved experimenting with toppings; a sprinkle of pickled onions and a squeeze of lime really brightened each taco. It was the perfect combination of savory and fresh!

        Why You'll Love These Tacos
        Tender, flavorful beef that melts in your mouth
Endless topping possibilities to customize your taco experience
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

      

Cooking the Beef to Perfection

The key to achieving tender beef barbacoa lies in the slow cooking process. The beef brisket, with its rich marbling, benefits from low and slow cooking to break down the connective tissues. When using a slow cooker, set it on low for 6-8 hours; this allows the beef to become fork-tender without drying out. If you're short on time, you can increase the heat to high, but be prepared for slightly less tender results, usually around 4-5 hours.

Always remember to sear the beef before slow cooking. This step not only creates a deep, complex flavor on the outside but also helps in retaining moisture during the cooking process. When searing, ensure the oil is hot enough to create a golden crust, which adds extra depth to the overall flavor. A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan works best for even heat distribution.

Perfecting Your Taco Assembly

Assembling the tacos thoughtfully can elevate your meal from good to great. Start with warm tortillas; this makes them more pliable and enhances the overall experience. If you prefer to warm them in a skillet, briefly toast each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and slightly charred. Alternatively, you can microwave a stack of tortillas wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 30-60 seconds.

For toppings, I recommend balancing the rich flavors of the barbacoa with fresh elements. Chopped cilantro not only adds a refreshing taste but also a burst of color. A squeeze of lime introduces acidity, brightening up each bite. Additionally, pickled onions provide a delightful tang that contrasts beautifully with the savory beef. Don't hesitate to experiment with additional toppings like avocado slices or spicy salsa to personalize your tacos.

Ingredients

For the Beef Barbacoa

2 lbs beef brisket
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 onions, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 cup beef broth
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

8 small corn tortillas
Chopped cilantro
Lime wedges
Sour cream (optional)
Pickled onions (optional)

Gather all the ingredients, making sure to have everything prepped for a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

Season the beef brisket generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Remove the beef and set aside.

Cook the Onions

In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Slow Cook the Beef

Transfer the beef, onions, and garlic to a slow cooker. Add cumin, oregano, chili powder, smoked paprika, beef broth, vinegar, and bay leaves. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender and easily shredded.

Shred the Beef

Once cooked, remove the beef and shred it using two forks. Return the pulled beef to the slow cooker, mix with the juices, and let it soak for an additional 15 minutes.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the barbacoa beef, then top with cilantro, lime juice, sour cream, and pickled onions if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Beef Barbacoa Tacos with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, let the beef marinate in the spices overnight before cooking. This will deepen the flavor profile and make your tacos even more delicious.

Ingredient Insights

Each of the spices in the barbacoa recipe has a role in layering flavor. The ground cumin lends an earthy warmth, while smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the brisket's natural flavor. For a variation, consider swapping chili powder for chipotle powder for a smoky heat. If you're cooking for younger diners, you can reduce the amount of chili powder to keep the dish mild.

Apple cider vinegar is crucial in this recipe—it helps tenderize the beef while contributing acidity to balance the richness of the brisket. If you don't have apple cider vinegar on hand, red wine vinegar can serve as a suitable substitute. Just be cautious with the amount, as its flavor is stronger; use slightly less to achieve a similar effect.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Beef barbacoa is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and store the shredded beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Portion the barbacoa in freezer-safe bags, ensuring all the air is pressed out to prevent freezer burn. It will freeze well for up to 3 months and can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the pan. A splash of beef broth can help to maintain moisture. If you're looking to serve this for a crowd, consider keeping the barbacoa warm in a slow cooker on the 'keep warm' setting, allowing guests to assemble their own tacos as they desire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes, you can use cuts like chuck roast or round roast, but brisket is ideal for its richness and tenderness.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! The barbacoa can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

We love chopped cilantro, pickled onions, sour cream, and fresh lime juice. Feel free to customize with your favorites!

→ Can these tacos be made gluten-free?

Yes, simply ensure you use corn tortillas or any other gluten-free option you prefer.