Spicy Barbacoa Beef Roast in the Instant Pot

This spicy barbacoa beef roast was a snap in the Instant Pot. Full of spicy goodness, it's perfect over rice for a delicious beef dinner.

Spicy Barbacoa Beef Roast in the Instant Pot
Spicy Barbacoa Beef Roast in the Instant Pot

This spicy barbacoa beef roast was a snap in the Instant Pot. Full of spicy goodness, it's perfect over rice for a delicious beef dinner.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 4
  • Carbohydrate 1.02852344575013 g
  • Cholesterol 112.264111575 mg
  • Fat 57.9036678059031 g
  • Fiber 0.300432052260413 g
  • Protein 33.0489913923961 g
  • Saturated Fat 15.8790283454705 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 -6 (229g)
  • Sodium 204.56265070693 mg
  • Sugar 0.728091393489721 g
  • Trans Fat 5.3268349848944 g
  • Calories 661 calories

Step-by-step

  • Push the saute button on the Instant Pot and adjust to high.
  • Mix all the spices together in a small bowl and rub all over the roast.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pot and brown the meat on both sides (about 3 minutes each side).
  • Take out the meat and add the other tablespoon of oil. Saute the onions for 2 minutes.
  • Add the remaining ingredients, stir well, and place the roast on top.
  • Place the lid on and seal. Push the vent knob to the sealing position.
  • Cancel the saute mode and push the manual button for high pressure.
  • Adjust the cooking time for 40 to 50 minutes (40 minutes for a roast, 50 minutes for fall-apart texture).
  • Quick release or let the pressure come down naturally.
  • Serve over rice. Add a squeeze of lime, cilantro, and avocado on top, if desired.
  • Note: To make this in a slow cooker, rub the meat with spices, brown in a skillet for about 3 minutes on each side, then place all ingredients in the slow cooker, mix, place the meat on top, and cook on low all day.

My Amazing Instant Pot Spicy Barbacoa Beef Roast

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework, extracurricular activities, and the never-ending cycle of laundry. But I've discovered a secret weapon in my kitchen that's changed everything: the Instant Pot. This incredible appliance has become my go-to for quick, flavorful meals that don't compromise on taste or nutrition.

Tonight's dinner is a testament to the Instant Pot's magic: Spicy Barbacoa Beef Roast. Forget spending hours simmering a roast in the oven; this recipe takes mere minutes to prepare and delivers unbelievably tender, succulent beef. The rich, smoky, and subtly spicy flavors are irresistible. The beauty of this dish is its adaptability; you can adjust the spice level to your preference, and the leftovers make fantastic tacos or burritos for lunch the next day.

The process is surprisingly simple. First, I make a flavorful spice rub, combining salt, onion powder, chili powder, pepper, oregano, cumin, and garlic. This fragrant blend is rubbed generously all over the chuck roast, coating every inch of meat. Then, I quickly sear the roast in the Instant Pot using the sauté function, getting a beautiful brown crust that adds depth of flavor. The sauté function is a lifesaver; it saves me the extra step of having to use a separate skillet.

Next, I add sliced onions, diced tomatoes, bell peppers (I love the vibrant colors of red and yellow), and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (for an extra kick). The chipotle peppers are optional, but they add a wonderful smoky heat that perfectly complements the other spices. I pour in some beef broth, ensuring that the flavors meld together beautifully.

The most magical part? The Instant Pot does all the hard work! With the lid sealed and the pressure valve set, I simply select the "manual" or "pressure cook" function. I let it cook for 40-50 minutes depending on how tender I want the meat to be. 40 minutes yields a more traditional roast texture, while 50 minutes results in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

After the cooking time, I carefully release the pressure (a quick release is perfectly safe in this instance), and the most aromatic steam escapes. The result is a tender, flavorful roast that practically falls apart with a gentle touch. I serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, and add a little garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and slices of creamy avocado. This perfectly balances the richness of the meat and the spice of the barbacoa.

This recipe is a true game-changer for busy people. It’s a delicious and healthy dinner that's ready in under an hour, leaving more time for family, friends, or simply unwinding after a long day. It's a recipe I’ll be making again and again—a testament to the versatility and efficiency of my Instant Pot and the simple joys of great food.

Beyond the dinner table: This barbacoa beef is incredibly versatile. The leftover meat can be shredded and used in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or even nachos! It's a delicious addition to salads, or can be served on crusty bread for a hearty sandwich. The possibilities are endless.

Tips and variations:

  • Spice it up: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice rub.
  • Add vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or zucchini.
  • Make it a slow cooker recipe: If you don't have an Instant Pot, this recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply brown the meat in a skillet, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
  • Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Cook the barbacoa ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

The Instant Pot Spicy Barbacoa Beef Roast is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of efficient cooking and the satisfaction of creating a delicious, healthy meal without sacrificing precious time. Enjoy!