Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This pulled pork taco recipe, slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty crock pot, is the answer to your weeknight dinner woes. It's a fantastic option for healthy meals, a quick dinner idea, and showcases the best of homemade cooking. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Your favorite taco toppings (shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, salsa, sour cream, cilantro)
- Corn or flour tortillas
Instructions:
-
Prep the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in your slow cooker. Don't worry about trimming excess fat; it'll render down beautifully during the cooking process.
-
Flavor Explosion: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
-
Marinate and Cook: Pour the marinade over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is easily shredded with a fork.
-
Shred and Serve: Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Use two forks to shred the pork into tender strands. You can skim off excess grease if desired.
-
Taco Time!: Warm your tortillas according to package directions. Fill each tortilla with the shredded pulled pork and your favorite taco toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork:
- Don't overcrowd your crockpot: Ensure there's enough space for the pork to cook evenly.
- Internal Temperature: For food safety, ensure the internal temperature of the pork reaches 190°F (88°C) before shredding.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. Cook the pulled pork a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy Pulled Pork: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
- Sweet and Savory: Increase the brown sugar to 1/3 cup for a sweeter pulled pork.
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest and juice of one lime or orange to the marinade for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving of pulled pork with approximately 4 oz of pork and standard toppings. Nutritional values will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-450
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This easy pulled pork taco recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes. It's perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any occasion where you want a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!