This Mexican Shredded Beef recipe features juicy beef chuck infused with bold spices like chipotle and paprika, complemented by a zesty mix of orange and lime juices. It’s an ideal filling for tacos, burritos, and more.
1 1/2tablespoonschipotle powder(adjust for desired spiciness)
1tablespoonpaprika
1tablespoondried oregano
1teaspoonground All Spice
1teaspooncoriander powder
2teaspoonseither onion powder or garlic powder(or 1 teaspoon of each)
1teaspoonsalt
1teaspoonpepper
1 to 2tablespoonsolive oil
Beef and Vegetables:
3poundsbeef chuck or brisket(divided into 4 equal portions, approximately 1.5 kg)
5clovesgarlic(minced)
1onion(finely diced)(yellow, brown, or white)
3/4cuporange juice(185 ml)
2tablespoonslime juice
14ouncescrushed tomatoes(400 g)
2cupsbeef or chicken broth(500 ml)
1/2cupwater(125 ml)
to tasteadditional salt and pepper
Instructions
Start by mixing the spices in a small bowl. Combine chipotle powder, paprika, oregano, ground all spice, coriander powder, onion or garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
For Beef:
Next, sprinkle about four teaspoons of the spice mix onto the beef portions, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Press the spices into the meat for better adhesion.
In a large heavy pot, heat some olive oil over high heat. Add the seasoned beef in batches if needed, and brown each piece on all sides. Once done, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
For Sauce and Simmering:
Lower the heat to medium, then add garlic and diced onion into the pot; sauté for about three minutes until they become soft and translucent.
Pour the orange juice and lime juice into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the browned bits from the bottom and mix them into the liquid for added flavor.
Incorporate crushed tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, water, and the remaining spice mixture. Stir well, then return the browned beef to ensure it is submerged.
Cover and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat to sustain a gentle simmer, allowing the beef to cook until tender, which should take about 2 hours.
After the two hours, remove the lid and let it simmer for another 30 minutes to let the sauce reduce and thicken. At this point, take out the beef and shred it using two forks.
Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for about 10 to 15 minutes until achieving the preferred texture. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if required. For a smoother sauce, you may purée it with an immersion blender.
Return the shredded beef back into the sauce, mixing well to coat all the meat. Serve on a large platter, drizzled with some sauce if you like.