Imagine tender, juicy pulled pork so flavorful it practically melts in your mouth, wrapped in warm taco shells and topped with fresh cilantro. These Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos are not just a meal, they're a culinary adventure that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico with every single bite. Whether you're hosting a weekend fiesta or craving a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to become your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Taco shells
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pork shoulder by trimming excess fat and patting it dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to create a spice rub. Thoroughly coat the entire pork shoulder with the spice mixture.
- Slice the onion and spread it across the bottom of a slow cooker. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions.
- Mince the garlic cloves and sprinkle them around and over the pork shoulder.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 hours, or until the pork is extremely tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Once cooking is complete, remove the pork from the slow cooker and transfer to a large cutting board.
- Using two forks, shred the pork meat, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Strain the cooking liquid and reserve a small amount to moisten the pulled pork if needed.
- Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
- Fill each taco shell with the pulled pork and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Mexican pulled pork tacos.
Tips
- Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder (or pork butt) is ideal for pulled pork due to its high fat content, which ensures maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Don't rush the cooking: Slow cooking is key! The 6-hour low and slow method breaks down tough muscle fibers, creating incredibly tender meat.
- Spice rub is crucial: Massage the spice mixture thoroughly into the meat to ensure deep, even flavor penetration.
- Save some cooking liquid: The strained liquid can help keep your pulled pork moist and add extra flavor when serving.
- For extra crispiness, consider briefly broiling the pulled pork before serving to create some delicious crispy edges.
- Customize your tacos: Offer additional toppings like diced onions, salsa, lime wedges, or sour cream to let guests personalize their tacos.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
