Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Before diving into the deliciousness of Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it. This dish is rich, flavorful, and versatile, making it perfect for various pairings. First, warm tortillas are a classic choice. 

Whether you prefer corn or flour, they’re ideal for scooping up the tender, shredded beef, letting you savor every bite.

To balance the richness of the barbacoa, a side of fluffy rice is an excellent addition. Try cilantro-lime rice for a fresh and zesty contrast that enhances the flavors of the beef. Beans are another great option. Black beans or refried beans add creaminess and protein, rounding out the dish and adding depth to each bite.

For a lighter element, a crisp salad like a simple coleslaw is perfect. It cuts through the richness of the barbacoa, offering a refreshing contrast. 

A zesty dressing can elevate the salad and add an extra punch of flavor. Now that we have the sides covered, let’s jump into the flavors of Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa!

Every now and then, I find myself itching to make something that reminds me of home, something comforting yet bold. Beef barbacoa checks all those boxes. It’s a dish that takes me back to family gatherings, where laughter and delicious aromas filled the room.

I discovered the wonders of the Instant Pot during meal prep chaos—a magic machine that turns tough cuts of meat into fork-tender dreams. 

My journey with making barbacoa led me to refine my recipe until I found a method that combines punchy flavors and easy prep. Trust me when I say, your taste buds are in for a treat.

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What is Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa?

The Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa is a delicious Mexican-style dish that features seasoned beef, traditionally served in tacos, burritos, or bowls.

Imagine this: tender beef, marinated in spices and rich sauces, cooked until it falls apart with a gentle pull. That’s barbacoa for you!

This recipe captures the authentic taste of barbacoa while streamlining the process, thanks to the Instant Pot. The result? A dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Flavor-Packed Ingredients: The spice blend includes smoked paprika, cumin, and chipotle adobo. Together, they elevate the natural flavors of the beef.
   
2. Short Cooking Time: Using the Instant Pot reduces cooking time significantly. What usually takes hours now takes just about an hour, making it perfect for busy days.
   
3. Versatility: This recipe allows for various serving options. Whether in a taco, over rice, or in a bowl, it fits any meal style.
   
4. Effortless Cleanup: One-pot cooking means fewer dishes. You can focus on enjoying your meal rather than stressing over the cleanup.
   

Ingredients You'll Need To Make This Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa

Chipotle Sauce

1/2 cup beef broth

1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

2 tsp adobo sauce

3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

3 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp kosher salt

5 garlic cloves, roughly chopped

1 Tbsp Better than Bouillon beef base

1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

3 Tbsp fresh lime juice

2 tsp dried oregano

1/4 tsp ground allspice

Barbacoa

4 lb. beef chuck roast

1/2 tsp kosher salt

2 bay leaves

1 medium yellow onion, diced

1 tsp ground coriander

4 oz can diced green chiles, drained

3 Tbsp tomato paste

1 cup beef broth

2 Tbsp vegetable oil

1/2 tsp black pepper

How To Make These?

Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Sauce

In a blender, mix beef broth, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, and the rest of the sauce ingredients. Blend until smooth. This sauce holds the key to unlocking maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Set your Instant Pot to "Sauté." Add vegetable oil. Once hot, season the beef chuck roast with salt and black pepper. Sear the beef on all sides for 4-5 minutes. This step creates a delicious crust that enhances the flavor profile.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics

Once the beef is seared, remove it from the pot. Add diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add the tomato paste and stir well, letting everything meld together.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now, return the beef to the pot. Pour in the blended chipotle sauce, the green chiles, bay leaves, and all remaining broth. Stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot. Make sure the valve is set to "Sealing." Select "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" and set it for 60 minutes.

Step 6: Natural Release

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pot to naturally release for about 15-20 minutes. After that, switch the valve to "Venting" to release any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Shred the Beef

Carefully remove the beef from the pot. Use two forks to shred it. Return the beef to the sauce, mixing well to soak in those flavors.

Step 8: Serve

You can serve this immediately or let it cool down and store it for later. Load up your tacos, burritos, or bowls, and enjoy!

Tips

• Use Leftover Beef: If you have leftover beef roast, use it instead for faster prep.
  
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to add more chipotle or pepper if you like heat.
  
• Let it Rest: Allowing the shredded beef to sit in the sauce for a bit drastically improves flavor.
  
• Rest the Beef After Cooking: Just like any good protein, letting the beef rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute.
  
• Garnish Creatively: Top your barbacoa with fresh cilantro, chopped onions, or avocado slices for an extra layer of flavors.
  

Nutrition Information

Ultimate instant pot beef barbacoa nutrition facts

How to Store The Leftovers?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it in freezer-safe containers. Just thaw and reheat, and it’s like day one all over again!

What Are Some Recommended Side Dishes for Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa?

1. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fresh, zesty rice pairs beautifully. Toss in lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro for a refreshing side.
   
2. Black Beans: Creamy black beans, seasoned with garlic, onion, and cumin, complement the barbacoa perfectly.
   
3. Corn Salsa: Sweet corn tossed with tomatoes, onions, and lime juice brings a crunchy texture that brightens each bite.
   
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred peppers, zucchini, and onions add a smoky element. Simply toss in oil, season, and grill them until tender.

Substitute Options for the Ingredients

1. Beef Chuck Roast: If you cannot find it, use brisket or round roast. These cuts also become tender when cooked.
   
2. Chipotle Peppers: If unavailable, try using smoked paprika with a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
   
3. Apple Cider Vinegar: Substitute with lime juice or white vinegar if you're in a pinch.
   
4. Diced Green Chiles: If you can’t find them, use fresh jalapeños or skip them entirely depending on your heat preference.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It brings people together, filling homes with mouth-watering aromas. 

Whether you're hosting a taco night or meal prepping for a busy week, this recipe shines.

By taking a few basic ingredients, you turn them into something extraordinary, something that makes you want to gather your loved ones. 

Dive into the joy of cooking, enjoy your plate, and savor those delightful flavors that linger long after the meal is over. So, roll up your sleeves, dust off that Instant Pot, and get cooking! You won't regret it.

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