01 -
Pat the beef chuck roast dry and coat all sides evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cumin.
02 -
Spread the sliced onion and minced garlic evenly on the bottom of a slow cooker or Dutch oven.
03 -
Position the seasoned beef on top of the aromatics, then pour in beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle brown sugar over the beef.
04 -
Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours in a slow cooker, or in a Dutch oven at 300°F (150°C) for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and shreds easily.
05 -
Transfer the cooked beef to a cutting board and shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the cooker and fold it into the cooking juices.
06 -
If desired, arrange sandwich buns cut side up on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven or grill until lightly golden.
07 -
Layer a generous portion of pulled beef onto each bun base. Add pickles, coleslaw, or sliced onions as desired. Close with the bun tops and serve immediately.