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A flavorful Mexican‑style shredded beef cooked low and slow in a crock‑pot. Tender chuck roast is browned, then simmered with onions, garlic, roma tomatoes, roasted poblanos, tomato paste, Mexican oregano and beef broth. Perfect for tacos, burritos, bowls or simply served over rice.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
Shredded beef, known as "carne deshebrada," is a staple in many Mexican regions, especially in the north where beef is abundant. It is traditionally slow‑cooked with chilies and spices, then used in tacos, burritos, and tortas, reflecting the Mexican emphasis on tender, flavor‑infused meats.
In Oaxaca, shredded beef may be cooked with mole; in Yucatán, it is often simmered with achiote and orange juice. The version in this recipe highlights northern flavors with poblanos, Mexican oregano, and beef broth, a common combination in the central‑northern states.
It is typically served on warm corn tortillas with fresh cilantro, diced onions, lime wedges, and sometimes pickled radishes. It also appears in burritos, tostadas, and as a topping for rice and beans.
Shredded beef is popular for family gatherings, weekend meals, and festive occasions like Día de los Muertos or local fairs, where it is served as a filling for street‑style tacos and quesadillas.
Serve alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, and a fresh salsa verde. It also complements a side of grilled corn (elote) or a simple cucumber‑lime salad.
The recipe combines the smoky depth of roasted poblanos with the aromatic Mexican oregano and a low‑and‑slow cooking method that yields ultra‑tender meat while keeping the preparation simple for home cooks.
Skipping the initial sear will result in a flatter flavor, over‑cooking on high will make the meat dry, and forgetting to season the broth can leave the final dish bland. Follow the critical steps for best results.
Low heat gently breaks down collagen in the chuck roast, producing melt‑in‑your‑mouth tenderness without drying the meat. A higher setting can cause the exterior to dry out before the interior becomes tender.
Yes, the beef can be cooked a day ahead, cooled, and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on low or in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed.
The YouTube channel benjamins.kitchen focuses on budget‑friendly, hearty home‑cooked meals, often featuring slow‑cooker and one‑pot recipes that maximize flavor while keeping costs low.
benjamins.kitchen emphasizes practical, low‑cost techniques and uses readily available ingredients, whereas many Mexican cooking channels highlight more elaborate, specialty items. The channel’s style is straightforward, with clear step‑by‑step guidance for everyday cooks.
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