Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa (the Best!) Recipe

I recently prepared a tender, succulent beef dish braised with garlic, chipotle peppers in adobo, and a splash of fresh lime juice. Enhanced with oregano, cumin, and chopped onion for extra zest, the robust flavors truly honor its roots as a Barbacoa Beef creation. The enticing aroma invites you to explore further.

I’ve been experimenting with beef recipes for a while now and none have hit the mark like my Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa. I mean, this dish is incredibly juicy and tender and absolutely full of those bold, mouthwatering flavors that make every bite a delight.

I start with 3 lb beef chuck roast seasoned with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper then mix in dried oregano and ground cumin. The addition of minced garlic and a couple chipotle peppers in adobo sauce really kicks up the flavor game while fresh lime juice and beef broth bring a tangy brightness to the mix.

I even toss in a bay leaf and a pinch of ground cloves to add a subtle twist. Honestly, this beef barbacoa is the best I’ve ever tasted.

It captures the true spirit of authentic Mexican recipes while keeping the process easy and fun in the Instant Pot.

Why I Like this Recipe

I love this recipe for so many reasons. First, the beef just turns out super tender and juicy every time i make it. Second, the mix of spices with the chipotle peppers and adobo sauce gives it this amazing smoky kick that really makes my tastebuds happy. Third, the tang from the lime juice (and sometimes apple cider vinegar) really pops and balances out all the flavors perfectly. Lastly, i like how easy it is to whip up in the Instant Pot even when i’m in a rush.

Ingredients

• Beef chuck roast gives hearty protein and a juicy texture that really satisfies.
• Chipotle peppers in adobo add a smoky, spicy tang and boost flavor intensity.
• Garlic brings robust flavor as well as antioxidants that might help overall health.
• Fresh lime juice offers a sour brightness that balances the rich taste of the meat.
• Onion adds natural sweetness and extra fiber while enhancing the overall dish.
• Oregano and cumin earthily flavor the meal while boosting aroma and warmth.
• Adobo sauce ties all the flavors together with a rich, spicy kick.
• Apple cider vinegar (optional) lends an extra tang that deepens the flavor profile.

Ingredient Quantities

• 3 lb beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into chunks
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 to 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 2 tbsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle peppers)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• Optional: 1-2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

How to Make this

1. Start by patting dry the beef chunks and season ’em with salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, and cloves, making sure the flavors get in really good.

2. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode, and when it’s hot enough, add the beef in batches to brown ’em up. Don’t worry if they stick a little – that’s part of the process.

3. Once all the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring ’em around so they get coated in all the tasty bits.

4. Now toss in the chipotle peppers along with the 2 tablespoons of adobo sauce. If you’re into a little extra tang, add the apple cider vinegar here too.

5. Pour in the lime juice and beef broth then drop the bay leaf into the pot – these will help create a rich sauce while the beef cooks.

6. Give everything a good stir to mix the flavors around and make sure the beef is mostly covered by the liquid.

7. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it on high pressure for about 45 minutes to let the beef get super tender.

8. When the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for around 10 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining steam.

9. Open the lid, remove the bay leaf, and shred the beef with two forks so it mixes nicely into the sauce.

10. Give it one last stir, taste, and adjust seasonings if needed. Your Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa is now ready to serve – enjoy the bold and juicy flavor!

Equipment Needed

1. Instant Pot
2. Cutting board
3. Sharp knife
4. Mixing bowl
5. Measuring spoons and measuring cup
6. Paper towels
7. Tongs or spatula
8. Forks (for shredding beef)
9. Timer
10. Stirring spoon

FAQ

Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa (the Best!) Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Beef chuck roast: You can use brisket or stew meat instead. They might need a bit more cooking time but will still bring a rich flavor.
• Chipotle peppers in adobo: If you cant find these, try mixing smoked paprika with a small pinch of cayenne pepper and a little extra adobo sauce.
• Beef broth: Chicken broth works in a pinch if you dont have beef broth, although it changes the flavor slightly.
• Fresh lime juice: Lemon juice is a good stand in if you don’t have fresh lime available.
• Apple cider vinegar: You can substitute this with red wine vinegar or white vinegar if needed, but use a tad less to avoid too much tang.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure to brown the beef in small batches instead of all at once, cuz overcrowding can make the meat steam instead of sear; this really helps develop a deeper flavor.

2. If you like it spicy, don’t hold back on the chipotle peppers, but if you’re not so sure, start with just one and then add more as you go – remember its easier to add heat later than take it away.

3. Give the pressure a natural release for the first 10 minutes after cooking – this little waiting game keeps the beef extra tender and flavorful, even if you’re impatient.

4. Once everything’s mixed, taste and adjust your seasonings; sometimes a little more lime juice or a splash of vinegar can really brighten the dish, so don’t be afraid to tinker a bit.