Smoky Chipotle Shredded Beef Tacos
Mexican-inspired, slow-cooked beef with smoky chipotle flavors, finished with a tangy lime boost and crisp toppings. This approach builds depth without relying on store seasoning, using pantry staples to create a bold, tender taco filling.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 140 min
Servings:
2 servings
(originally 4 servings)Ingredients(scaled)
- 1 lb beef chuck roast, cut into 3-inch pieces
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 ½ cloves garlic, minced
- 1 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tablespoons adobo sauce (from can)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ cup beef stock
- 1 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ½ tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ Salt to taste
- ½ Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 small corn tortillas
- ½ Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced white onion, lime wedges, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions
- Season beef with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a heavy pot over medium-high; sear beef until browned on all sides, 6–8 minutes. Remove to a plate.
- In the same pot, sauté onion 3–4 minutes until translucent; add garlic 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder; cook 1 minute to bloom spices.
- Return beef with any resting juices; add beef stock, tomato paste, vinegar, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook on low heat or in a 325°F oven for 2–2.5 hours until beef is fork-tender. Shred with two forks and return to sauce; simmer uncovered 10–15 minutes to thicken.
- Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave; fill with beef and top with cilantro, onion, lime, and queso fresco as desired.
- Preheat the oven and bake until golden and set; a toothpick should come out clean.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Use chuck roast for tenderness; shred after simmering for juicy texture.
- Bloom spices in fat before adding liquids for deeper smokiness.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime to brighten the richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm tortillas, pickled onions, and a fresh cilantro-lime slaw to contrast the smoky beef.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently and thin with a splash of beef stock if needed.
Nutritional Estimates
Per serving · 2 servings total
| calories | 520 |
|---|---|
| protein | 38 |
| carbohydrates | 28 |
| fat | 26 |
Community Ratings & Comments
No ratings yet. Be the first!
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to leave one!