Hey taco lovers!
Who’s ready for some mouthwatering goodness? I’m excited to share my recipe for pulled pork tacos!
These bad boys are packed with flavor and so easy to make.
Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a fun gathering, these tacos will steal the show.
Get ready to dig in and enjoy some serious deliciousness! Let’s get cooking! 🌮✨
Ingredient Substitutions
For the pork shoulder roast, boneless chicken thighs or jackfruit can be used as alternatives. Chicken thighs provide a similar texture and absorb flavors well, while jackfruit offers a plant-based option that mimics pulled pork’s texture. Adjust cooking time accordingly for chicken, and use canned jackfruit in brine or water, draining and shredding it before cooking.
Chipotle chili in adobo sauce can be replaced with smoked paprika and cayenne pepper for a similar smoky, spicy flavor. Use 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper as a substitute. For a milder option, use roasted red peppers with a dash of liquid smoke.
For a gluten-free alternative to tortillas, use large lettuce leaves or make cheese crisps by baking shredded cheese until crispy. Corn tortillas are another gluten-free option that maintains the traditional taco experience. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free if preparing for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
| Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 240-480 minutes |
| Total Time | 255-500 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 2500-2800
- Protein: 200-220 g
- Fat: 150-170 g
- Carbohydrates: 150-180 g
Ingredients
- 1 boneless pork shoulder roast (approx. 4 pounds)
- Salt, as needed
- 1 cup of your favorite salsa
- 1 canned chipotle chili with 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 3 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, peeled and halved
- 10-12 tortillas (6-inch)
- Optional toppings for serving: lettuce, cheese, hot sauce, green onions, cilantro, or lime wedges
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Start by trimming excess fat from the pork and cut it into 4 even pieces.
Season them generously on all sides with salt to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce in the Slow Cooker
Add the salsa, chipotle chili, adobo sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, crushed garlic, and 1 teaspoon of salt into a slow cooker.
Stir all these ingredients together until well combined to create a rich and flavorful sauce base.
Step 3: Add Pork and Onion to Slow Cooker
Add the seasoned pork pieces and chopped onion to the slow cooker.
Turn the pieces of pork to coat them thoroughly with the sauce, ensuring each piece is well covered
Step 4: Cook the Pork
Set the slow cooker to either low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours, depending on your schedule.
Allow the pork to cook until it is tender and easily shredded.
The slow, moist cooking process will infuse the pork with the flavors of the sauce.
Step 5: Shred the Pork and Strain the Sauce
Once the cooking time is complete, transfer the pork to a large bowl.
Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
Pour the sauce from the slow cooker through a strainer to remove any solids and skim off excess fat using a spoon or a fat separator, if desired.
Add enough of the strained sauce back to the shredded pork to moisten it nicely.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they’re pliable and soft.
Fill each tortilla with the flavorful pulled pork and any garnishes of your choice, such as cilantro, diced onions, or avocado slices.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, homemade pulled pork tacos!
