Barbacoa is a dish that originated in the Caribbean with the Taíno people, who called it by the Arawak word barbaca, from which the term "barbacoa" derives. It is a method of cooking meat that produces tender and juicy results. Barbacoa is a popular dish found at many Mexican restaurants in the United States and even features in many national chain restaurants, like Chipotle. It is typically made out of tougher cuts of meat that require long, slow cooking times. The type of meat used and the spices and flavorings used can vary depending on the region and the recipe. Here are some key points about barbacoa:

• Etymology: The word "barbacoa" is believed to have come from the mainland Taino (eastern Dominican Republic) .

• Meat: Barbacoa can be made with beef, lamb, goat, or pork.

• Cooking Method: Barbacoa is typically made by braising the meat for many hours until it is tender. Traditionally, barbacoa is made by slowly cooking the meat in a pit dug into the ground, which is covered with agave leaves.

• Flavorings: Barbacoa is often marinated in a blend of spices and chili peppers.

Barbacoa is a beloved menu item at Mexican restaurants like Chipotle and has been satisfying cravings for years. It is a dish that has a long history in Mexico and its origins are somewhat shrouded in mystery.