Colombian Pulled Beef

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900g) beef chuck roast 2 pounds (900g) beef chuck roast
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups (470ml) beef broth 2 cups (470ml) beef broth
• 2 bay leaves 2 bay leaves

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 3g, 1g
• Protein: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   Rub the spice mixture all over the beef chuck roast, ensuring it is evenly coated.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
5. 5.
   Place the seasoned beef chuck roast into the pot and sear it on all sides until browned.
6. 6.
   Pour the beef broth into the pot, along with the bay leaves.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the beef simmer for 3-4 hours, or until it becomes tender and easily shreds with a fork.
8. 8.
   Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks.
9. 9.
   Return the shredded beef to the pot and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
10. 10.
    Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef chuck roast — Choose a well-marbled cut of beef chuck roast for the best flavor and tenderness. Trim any excess fat before cooking.
• Smoked paprika — If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use regular paprika instead of smoked paprika.
• Vegetable oil — Feel free to substitute with olive oil or any other cooking oil of your choice.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra smoky flavor, you can add a small amount of liquid smoke to the beef broth.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mixture.
• Leftover pulled beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for future use.
• To enhance the flavors, allow the shredded beef to marinate in its cooking juices overnight before reheating and serving.
• Serve the Colombian Pulled Beef with traditional accompaniments such as rice, beans, plantains, and a fresh avocado salad.

Serving advice

Serve the Colombian Pulled Beef as a main dish alongside rice and beans. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm tortillas or arepas for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the shredded beef on a platter, allowing the strands to showcase their tenderness. Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the beef for added moisture and flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.