Beef Barbacoa
Beef Barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish of slow-cooked, shredded beef, typically seasoned with a blend of spices like cumin, cloves, and garlic, and often cooked with chiles and citrus. It is known for its incredibly tender, juicy texture and deep, savory flavor. The dish originates from Mexico, where it was traditionally prepared by steaming or roasting meat in an underground pit.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Beef Barbacoa is a high-protein, low-carbohydrate dish, making it a nutrient-dense option. It provides significant amounts of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, with a typical serving containing roughly 300-400 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Carbs | 2 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Zinc | 10 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 5.0 µg |
| Niacin (B3) | 12 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
| Selenium | 40 µg |
| Choline | 150 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, barbacoa is a cornerstone of Mexican weekend breakfasts and celebrations, often served with warm tortillas, salsa, and onions. Nutritionally, the slow-cooking process helps break down connective tissue, making the protein highly digestible and the minerals more bioavailable.
