Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's both easy to make and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! These BBQ pork tacos are the perfect answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. This recipe delivers tender, juicy pulled pork smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce, all nestled in warm tortillas – a true taste sensation! Get ready to experience the best of homemade cooking with this simple yet impressive dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder (butt roast), bone-in or boneless
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 12 corn or flour tortillas
- Toppings of your choice (see variations below)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pork
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Season the pork shoulder generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until nicely browned. This step adds incredible depth of flavor to your final dish.
Step 2: Simmering to Perfection
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in about ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, ensuring the pork is partially coated.
Step 3: Oven Time
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. About halfway through cooking, baste the pork with the remaining BBQ sauce. This slow cooking method yields the most succulent and flavorful pulled pork.
Step 4: Shred and Serve
Once the pork is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into small pieces. Mix the shredded pork with the remaining sauce in the skillet, ensuring every strand is coated in that delicious BBQ goodness.
Step 5: Taco Time!
Warm the tortillas according to package directions. Fill each tortilla with the shredded BBQ pork and your favorite toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best BBQ Pork Tacos:
- For even more flavor: Marinate the pork shoulder overnight in a mixture of your favorite BBQ sauce, olive oil, and spices.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure you sear the pork shoulder in batches if necessary to achieve a good sear on all sides.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the pork to ensure it reaches 190°F (88°C) for food safety.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is great for meal prepping! Prepare the pulled pork a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Tacos: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a fiery kick.
- Pineapple BBQ Tacos: Incorporate chopped fresh pineapple into the BBQ sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
- Coleslaw Tacos: Top your tacos with a refreshing homemade coleslaw for added crunch and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
These BBQ pork tacos are a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a winner! Enjoy this delicious dish and happy cooking!