Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering Mexican-inspired dish that will have everyone begging for seconds! These Pulled Pork Apple Tostadas are the ultimate flavor explosion that combines tender, slow-cooked pork with crispy tostada shells and zesty salsa. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly crafted bite that balances savory, sweet, and crunchy textures - this recipe is about to become your new obsession! Whether you're hosting a weekend gathering or craving a unique weeknight meal, these tostadas are guaranteed to impress both family and friends.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 tostada shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup salsa
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork shoulder. Trim any excess fat from the meat and cut it into large chunks if necessary. This will help it cook more evenly.
- In a large slow cooker, place the pork shoulder pieces. Add the sliced onion, apple cider, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the pork is well coated with the spices and the onion is evenly distributed.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 6 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the pork to become tender and easily shreddable.
- After 6 hours, check the pork for doneness. It should be fork-tender and easily pull apart. If it’s not tender enough, you can continue cooking for an additional hour.
- Once the pork is fully cooked, carefully 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 and mix it with the cooking juices to keep it moist and flavorful. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the pork is resting, prepare the tostada shells according to the package instructions or bake them in the oven until they are crispy.
- To assemble the tostadas, place a generous amount of the pulled pork on each tostada shell.
- Add a handful of shredded lettuce on top of the pork for crunch and freshness.
- Finally, spoon some salsa over the lettuce and pulled pork to add a burst of flavor.
- Serve the pulled pork apple tostadas immediately while the tostadas are still crisp. Enjoy your delicious Mexican-inspired dish!
Tips
- Choose the right cut of pork: A pork shoulder (or Boston butt) works best for pulled pork due to its marbling and ability to become incredibly tender during slow cooking.
- Enhance the flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika to your spice mix.
- Slow cooker success: Resist the temptation to open the lid during cooking. Each time you lift the lid, you'll lose heat and extend the cooking time.
- Moisture is key: If the pork seems dry, reserve some of the cooking liquid to mix back in when shredding to keep the meat juicy.
- Tostada shell hack: If you can't find pre-made tostada shells, you can easily crisp up corn tortillas in the oven at 400°F for about 5-7 minutes until they become crisp and golden.
- Make-ahead friendly: The pulled pork can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making meal prep a breeze.
- Customize your toppings: Feel free to add additional toppings like diced avocado, sour cream, or fresh cilantro to make these tostadas your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg