Barbacoa tacos are a popular taco variety that feature shredded or pulled beef as the primary filling. The beef is slowly braised until tender and infused with delicious spices and flavors. Barbacoa tacos have become a favorite on taco menus across the United States. But what exactly are barbacoa tacos made of? Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients and components that go into making authentic barbacoa tacos.
The Barbacoa Beef
The star of barbacoa tacos is definitely the braised and shredded beef. Traditional barbacoa is made by slowly cooking beef cheeks or other fatty cuts of beef in a pit oven or steamer until the meat is fall-apart tender. The beef cheeks are often seasoned with a blend of spices and chiles before braising. Some key seasonings used in barbacoa include:
- Chile peppers – Ancho, guajillo, chipotle
- Spices – Cumin, oregano, cloves, cinnamon
- Herbs – Cilantro, bay leaves
- Aromatics – Garlic, onion
The long, slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender while absorbing all the delicious flavors. Once cooked, the beef is shredded or pulled into long, stringy strands and strands and mixed with the cooking juices to moisten it. This flavorful, juicy beef filling is then used as the protein inside the barbacoa tacos.
Cuts of Beef for Barbacoa
While beef cheeks are considered the most authentic cut to use, other fatty beef cuts also work well, including:
- Chuck roast
- Brisket
- Shoulder
- Shank
These cuts become succulent and full of flavor after the long braising time. Just make sure to use a cut with sufficient fat and connective tissue.
The Tortillas
No taco is complete without the tortilla! Soft corn tortillas are usually preferred for barbacoa tacos, but flour tortillas can also be used. Some key tips for taco tortillas:
- Look for fresh, high-quality tortillas made with just corn, water, and lime
- Corn tortillas should have a soft, pliable texture
- Heat the tortillas before serving to soften them up
- Keep tortillas wrapped in a towel while assembling the tacos to stay warm and moist
A barbacoa taco just wouldn’t have the right taste or texture without a soft, warm tortilla! Here are some things to look for:
| Corn Tortillas | Flour Tortillas |
|---|---|
| – Sweeter, nuttier flavor | – Milder in flavor |
| – More authentic for barbacoa tacos | – Sturdier texture |
| – More prone to cracking | – Easier to handle |
| – Should be steamed/heated before using | – Can be used at room temp |
Traditional Toppings
Tacos are often finished with toppings that add extra flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here are some traditional toppings used in barbacoa tacos:
- Onions – Thinly sliced raw onions add a refreshing crunch.
- Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brightens up the tacos.
- Limes – A squeeze of lime juice enhances the flavors.
- Salsa – Tomato-based salsa flavors complement the barbacoa.
Other potential garnishes include diced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, shredded lettuce or cabbage, radishes, pickled jalapeños or carrots, and Mexican crema. The options are endless!
Traditional Barbacoa Taco Toppings
| Topping | Adds… |
|---|---|
| Onions | Crunch and tang |
| Cilantro | Fresh herby flavor |
| Limes | Brightness and acidity |
| Salsa | Savory tomato flavor |
Making Authentic Barbacoa at Home
Want to try your hand at making authentic barbacoa tacos at home? Here’s a quick step-by-step overview:
- Season the beef – Coat the beef cheeks or other cut with spices, chiles, herbs, garlic, etc. Cover and marinate overnight.
- Braise the beef – Add beef and marinade to a Dutch oven. Add braising liquid like beef broth. Braise for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the beef – Once ultra tender, transfer beef to a cutting board to rest and cool slightly. Shred beef with two forks.
- Moisten the beef – Add shredded beef back to the cooking liquid. Mix and coat strands.
- Heat the tortillas – Warm tortillas over a grill or in a skillet before serving.
- Assemble the tacos – Fill tortillas with barbacoa, onions, cilantro, salsa, and any other desired toppings.
With this easy process, you can enjoy incredible barbacoa tacos without needing a pit oven or steamer. The key is finding the right cut of beef and braising it low and slow until fall-apart tender.
Conclusion
Barbacoa tacos consist of shredded, spice-rubbed beef that has been slowly braised until incredibly tender and juicy. This flavorful beef filling is paired with warm corn tortillas and then finished with toppings like raw onions, fresh cilantro, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. While labor intensive, making authentic barbacoa at home rewards you with insanely delicious tacos. With the right preparation, ingredients, and toppings, you can create amazing barbacoa tacos that rival your favorite taco shops and restaurants.