Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible aroma and bold flavors of Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef. This recipe takes the humble flank steak to new heights, infusing it with smoky chipotle peppers and savory beef broth in the convenience of your slow cooker. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty meal with minimal effort, this dish promises to impress. Join us as we delve into the ingredients and steps to create this mouthwatering masterpiece, guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-pound) flank steak, scored
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus extra for seasoning
- 2 canned chipotle peppers, accompanied by 1 tablespoon of their adobo sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
- Prepare the Flank Steak: Score the flank steak on both sides with a sharp knife and season it generously with salt.
- Create the Chipotle Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the canned chipotle peppers (with adobo sauce) and beef broth. Blend until smooth.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the scored flank steak in the slow cooker and pour the chipotle marinade over it, ensuring the steak is well coated on all sides.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the chipotle beef on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the slow cooker and stir well to combine. Allow the sauce to thicken for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Shred the Beef: Once the beef is cooked and the sauce has thickened, use two forks to shred the meat directly in the slow cooker. Mix the shredded beef with the sauce to coat evenly.
- Serve: Transfer the flavorful chipotle beef to a serving platter and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, tortillas, or roasted vegetables.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat level of the dish by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers and adobo sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- Additional Flavors: Enhance the depth of flavor by incorporating minced garlic, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime juice into the marinade.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the flank steak with portobello mushrooms or firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Omit the cornstarch and serve the chipotle beef over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep it low in carbs. Use beef broth without added sugars or opt for homemade bone broth.
- Low Carb Version: Replace the cornstarch with a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or glucomannan powder to achieve the desired sauce consistency without adding extra carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe? While flank steak works well for its tenderness and ability to absorb flavors, you can also use cuts like chuck roast or brisket for longer, slower cooking times, resulting in tender, succulent beef.
- Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot or pressure cooker? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot or pressure cooker by adjusting the cooking time. Cook on high pressure for 60-70 minutes, followed by a natural release.
- Can I freeze leftovers for later use? Absolutely! Store leftover chipotle beef in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
- What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef? This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves.
- Can I make this recipe spicier? If you love extra heat, add additional chipotle peppers or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to amp up the spiciness to your liking.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef is a flavorful and versatile dish that transforms a simple flank steak into a mouthwatering meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a comforting dinner, this recipe delivers on both taste and convenience. With its smoky, spicy flavors and tender, succulent beef, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So, dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the bold flavors of Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef!
