Copycat Cafe Rio Shredded Beef Tacos (Pic)

adapted from: 365 Days of Slow Cooking

1 small onion

2 lbs. boneless beef chuck roast

1 c. low-sodium beef broth

1 Tbl. ground cumin + extra to taste

3-5 garlic cloves, minced

1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce

1 (14 oz.) can green enchilada sauce

1-2 Tbl. tomato paste

salt, to taste

For serving:

tomatillo dressing, see recipe below

soft corn or flour tortillas

black or pinto beans

spanish rice

diced tomato

salsa

chopped cilantro

Feta cheese

Monterey or Cheddar cheese, shredded

avocado

Cut the onion into large, chunky slices; place on the bottom of slow-cooker. Place the roast on top of the onions. Combine broth, 1 Tablespoon cumin, garlic and tomato sauce; pour over the top of the roast. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours. Transfer meat to a cutting board; use two forks to shred the beef. Strain the juices from the slow-cooker, reserving the juice. Transfer shredded meat back to the slow-cooker and pour some of the strained juices over the shredded beef (as much as you prefer). Stir in the enchilada sauce and tomato paste (I added one Tablespoon). Season with salt and extra cumin, to taste. Serve in taco shells with desired toppings. Serves: 8

Tomatillo Dressing

1/2 (1 oz.) pkg. Hidden Valley Ranch mix

1/2 c. buttermilk

1/2 c. mayonnaise (I used light)

2 medium tomatillos, husks removed and rinsed well

1/2 - 1 garlic clove, to taste

1/2 small bunch cilantro

juice of 1/2 a lime

1/2 small jalapeno, seeds removed

Put all dressing ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust any flavors as needed. Refrigerate until ready to use. Yield: about 2 cups

Jenn's Notes: I wouldn't change anything with the above ingredients and measurements. I loved the flavor of the beef and the tomatillo dressing.