Go Back
Deliciously prepared shredded Mexican beef tacos served on a plate.

Mexican Shredded Beef

A hearty and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners, this Mexican Shredded Beef is infused with spices and makes a great filling for tacos or served alongside vibrant sides.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Spice Mix
  • 1.5 tbsp chipotle powder Adjust spiciness to taste
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp All Spice powder (ground)
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder or garlic powder Or 1 tsp of each
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
Main Ingredients
  • 1-2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 lb beef chuck or brisket Cut into 4 pieces
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 onion, diced (yellow, brown, or white)
  • 3/4 cup orange juice
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth/stock
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Additional salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine the Spice Mix: In a bowl, combine the chipotle powder, paprika, oregano, All Spice, coriander, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle 4 teaspoons of this spice mix onto the beef pieces, pressing it in well.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over high heat. Brown the seasoned beef pieces on all sides, then set them aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Onion: Lower the heat to medium, add minced garlic and diced onion to the pot. Cook until softened and aromatic, about 3 minutes.
  4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the orange juice and lime juice, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift the flavorful bits.
  5. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, water, and remaining spice mix. Return the beef to the pot.
Cooking
  1. Simmer Away: Cover the pot and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2 hours, then remove the lid and simmer for another 30 minutes until the beef is tender enough to shred.
  2. Shred the Beef: Remove the beef from the sauce and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
  3. Thicken the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes to reduce and thicken. Adjust salt to taste.
Serving
  1. Combine and Serve: Toss the shredded beef back into the sauce and transfer to a serving dish.
  2. Prepare Tacos: Serve the shredded beef with warmed tortillas, avocado, pico de gallo, cheese, sour cream, lime wedges, and cilantro.

Notes

Adjust spice levels to your taste. Marinate beef overnight for deeper flavors. For a smoky touch, add liquid smoke. A slow cooker can be used; cook on low for 6-8 hours.