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instant pot beef barbacoa

Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa: A Savory Twist on Comfort Food

This instant pot beef barbacoa transforms slow-cooked comfort into a quick, flavorful dish, perfect for any night.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Natural Pressure Release 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 4 lbs bone-in beef chuck Substitution: Can also use brisket; aim for fatty cuts for tenderness.
For the Aromatics
  • 1/2 unit white onion sliced
  • 8 cloves garlic peeled
For the Chilies
  • 5 unit dried guajillo chilies stems and seeds removed
  • 2 unit dried ancho chilies stems and seeds removed
  • 5 unit chile de arbol optional; adds heat
For the Spices
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 1 unit bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cooking Liquid
  • 16 oz negra modelo or beef broth Substitute beef broth if avoiding beer.
  • 1 cup cold brew coffee
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the 4 lbs. of bone-in beef chuck dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Sear each side of the beef for 4-5 minutes.
  3. Remove the beef and sauté 1/2 sliced onion and 8 garlic cloves for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Return the beef and add 5 guajillo chilies, 2 ancho chilies, spices, and 16 oz. of negra modelo or beef broth.
  5. Close the lid and set to pressure cook on high for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
  6. Allow natural pressure release for about 20 minutes, then switch to venting.
  7. Blend the cooking liquid until smooth, adjusting consistency as needed.
  8. Return shredded beef and blended sauce to pot, simmering for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 40gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently.

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