Irresistible Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos You Must Try!

Oh, let me tell you, if you haven’t had Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos, you’re in for a real treat! Picture this: smoky, tender pork that just melts in your mouth, wrapped in warm tortillas, and topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime… It’s like a flavor explosion! These tacos are not just a meal, they’re an experience, perfect for making any night feel a little special—like a mini fiesta at home! So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into one of my all-time favorite recipes!

Why You’ll Crave It

• Super tender, juicy pork that can be served in a million different ways, seriously!
• Customizable toppings—go wild with avocado, salsas, or pickled onions; the sky’s the limit!
• Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in with loved ones; it’s always a hit!
• Simple ingredients that you might already have, making it easy to whip up any day of the week.

My family fights over the last taco… it’s that good!

What You’ll Need

• Pork shoulder: about 3 lbs, cut into big chunks—this is your flavorful base!
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons for that lovely sear.
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped; it adds some sweetness as it cooks.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced; because seriously, more garlic makes everything better.
• Cumin: 1 tablespoon for that warm, earthy kick.
• Chili powder: 1 tablespoon, because we want a little spice, right?
• Bay leaves: 2 to infuse that lovely herbaceous flavor.
• Orange juice: 1 cup, it brightens everything up—trust me on this!
• Lime juice: 1/4 cup, just the right tang!
• Salt and pepper: to taste, but don’t be shy; seasoning is key!
• Tortillas: for serving, grab some fresh ones if you can!
• Fresh cilantro: for garnish; it’s essential for that pop of color and flavor!
• Diced onions: for garnish; adds a little crunch and bite!

Easy How-To

Preparing the Pork

Okay, first things first. You’ll want to start by cutting that pork shoulder into large chunks—about 3 to 4 inches, if you can. It’s super crucial for even cooking, so don’t skimp on this part! While you’re doing that, preheat your skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat… to make that searing happen.

Seasoning the Meat

Now, in a big bowl, combine your salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and garlic powder. It might seem like a lot, but trust in the flavor! Rub this mixture all over those pork chunks—you want them well coated, like, every inch of that beautiful meat!

Searing the Pork

In your heated skillet, add a splash of olive oil, and then sear those pork pieces in batches until they get nice and brown on all sides. Seriously, this step is crucial! It’s where the flavor magic starts… the caramelization adds such depth. Just don’t overcrowd the pan!

Slow Cooking the Pork

Once seared, transfer the pork to a slow cooker. Toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and pour in that orange juice—yum! Cook on low for around 8 hours or high for about 4 hours. Your goal? Get that pork super tender, so it practically falls apart when you look at it.

Shredding the Pork

When it’s finally done, take two forks and shred the pork right there in the slow cooker, mixing it with those delicious juices… oh man, it smells incredible! This is where you want to stand back and let the aroma hit you!

Crisping Up (Optional)

If you really want to treat yourself, spread that shredded pork on a baking sheet and pop it under the broiler for about 5 to 10 minutes. Just keep an eye on it… stir halfway through for even crisping. It gets this lovely crunchy exterior, and trust me, it’s totally worth it!

Preparing the Tacos

Alright, while the pork is doing its crispy thing, warm your tortillas in a dry skillet—or over a flame if you’re feeling adventurous! Then, just load them up with that juicy pulled pork…

Topping Your Tacos

Finally, top your tacos with whatever your heart desires—diced onions, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice… maybe even some avocado or salsa? Go for it! This part is all about personal taste, so have fun with it!

Good to Know

• Pork shoulder is best here; it gives the right amount of fat for juicy carnitas!
• If you want more heat, add in some chili powder when seasoning or even toss some jalapeños in during cooking.
• Leftovers? Oh yeah, just store them in an airtight container—perfect for lunches or snacks.

Serving Ideas

• Serve these tacos with a side of Mexican street corn or a fresh guacamole for a complete feast.

Top Tricks

• For even more flavor, consider cooking the pork overnight—so it’s ready for Taco Tuesday the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, totally! While pork shoulder is awesome for its fat and flavor, you can also try pork butt or ribs, just keep an eye on cooking times, okay?

Can I make carnitas in advance?

Absolutely! You can make them ahead and store them in the fridge for a few days or even freeze them. They’re great for meal prepping—so handy!

How should I store leftover carnitas?

Airtight containers work best; you can keep them in the fridge for about 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw and reheat before enjoying!

What toppings are recommended for serving?

Classic toppings? Think diced onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a good salsa or hot sauce for that zing!

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Oh, yes! Just toss in some jalapeños or another spicy pepper during cooking, or add spicy salsa at the end for that kick.

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Give these Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos a go. Trust me, once you do, they’ll become your new go-to recipe! The combination of flavors and that lovely softness of the pork—they just transport you to taco bliss. Enjoy munching away and savoring each bite, because, really, it’s all about sharing good food with the people you love!