Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, fall-apart tender Slow Cooker Mojo Pork Tacos that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Cuba! Imagine succulent pork infused with zesty citrus and aromatic spices, slow-cooked to perfection until it practically melts in your mouth. This recipe is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, and possibly demanding you open a taco restaurant!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder, 3 lbs
- Garlic, 6 cloves
- Orange juice, 1 cup
- Lime juice, 1/4 cup
- Cumin, 1 tsp
- Oregano, 1 tsp
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Tortillas, for serving
- Onion, sliced
- Cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork shoulder. Trim any excess fat from the meat to ensure a leaner dish. Cut the pork into large chunks for even cooking.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic cloves, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth to create the marinade.
- Place the pork shoulder chunks into the slow cooker. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring that all pieces are well-coated.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. This slow cooking process will make the pork tender and flavorful.
- After 8 hours, check the pork for tenderness. It should easily shred with a fork. If it’s not tender enough, continue cooking for an additional hour.
- Once the pork is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, mixing it with the remaining juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
- While the pork is resting, prepare the tortillas. Warm them in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or until they are pliable and slightly toasted.
- To serve, place a generous amount of shredded mojo pork onto each tortilla. Top with sliced onions and fresh cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
- Enjoy your Slow Cooker Mojo Pork Tacos with your favorite sides or toppings!
Tips
- Choose a well-marbled pork shoulder (also called pork butt) for maximum tenderness and flavor. The extra fat helps keep the meat moist during the long cooking process.
- For an extra flavor boost, toast your whole spices before grinding them to enhance their aromatic qualities. This small step can dramatically improve the depth of your marinade.
- Don't rush the cooking time! The 8-hour slow cook is crucial for breaking down the meat's connective tissues, ensuring melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- If you want a slightly crispy exterior, after shredding the pork, spread it on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes to create delicious caramelized edges.
- Make extra! This pork freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, giving you an instant meal solution for busy weeknights.
- For a low-carb option, serve the mojo pork over a fresh salad or in lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 125mg
