Chipotle Orange Slow Cooker Beef Tacos
Tender beef simmers in a tangy, smoky chipotle-orange sauce, yielding tacos that are juicy and full of flavor.
Total: 255 minPrep: 15 minCook: 240 min8 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 corn tortillas, warmed
- Toppings: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, diced onions, shredded cheese
Steps
- 1 Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown beef cubes on all sides; transfer to slow cooker.
- 2 In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until softened, then add to slow cooker.
- 3 Combine crushed tomatoes, orange juice, vinegar, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper in slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- 4 Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or high for 2 hours, until beef is tender.
- 5 Shred beef with two forks directly in the slow cooker. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 6 Serve beef in warmed corn tortillas with desired toppings.
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Skillet
Variations
- For a vegetarian option, substitute beef with jackfruit or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Substitutions
- If chipotle peppers are too spicy, use regular canned diced green chiles instead.
Pairings
- Perfect with a cold cerveza or a zesty margarita.
Nutrition
Calories:
420 kcal
Fat:
22g fat
Carbs:
18g carbohydrates
Protein:
35g protein
Fiber:
3g fiber
Sugar:
6g sugar
Sodium:
800mg sodium
Tips
- For extra flavor, toast the chili powder and cumin in a dry skillet before adding to the slow cooker.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the number of chipotle peppers.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh avocado salsa or a side of Mexican rice and refried beans.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, beef shoulder or brisket work well, but adjust cooking time as needed.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare up to step 3, refrigerate, then cook before serving.