Barbacoa is a popular dish made from tougher cuts of meat that require long, slow cooking times. It is traditionally made with large cuts of meat or whole animals, and the meat is usually associated with beef in the United States, while in Mexico, it can be made from beef, goat, lamb, or mutton
. The dish is known for its tender and juicy results, and it is often served as a taco filling
. Some key aspects of barbacoa include:
- Cooking Method : Barbacoa is typically braised for several hours until tender
. In some traditional preparations, the meat is cooked in an underground pit, such as a cow's head
- Seasonings : The dish is flavored with a combination of smoky chili peppers and aromatic spices like oregano, cloves, and bay leaf, giving it a bold, smoky, spicy flavor
- Variations : In addition to beef, barbacoa can also be made from goat, lamb, or mutton, and in the southern region of Yucatan, there is a variation called cochinita pibil made from pork
At Chipotle, the barbacoa is made with beef, cooked sous vide before braising, and then shredded by hand
. The dish is often served with a variety of toppings, such as rice, beans, cheese, and salsa, and is typically wrapped in a tortilla
