Experience the rich, smoky flavor of these slow cooker Mexican pulled pork tacos. The tender, fall-apart pork shoulder, generously rubbed with an array of bold spices and slow-cooked to perfection, gives a depth of flavor that makes these tacos truly stand out. The accompaniment of fresh avocados, radishes, and cabbage adds a delightful crunch, while a squeeze of lime juice brings a tangy freshness. This is the epitome of comfort food.
The key ingredient for this recipe is the pork shoulder roast, which is commonly available in most supermarkets. However, be sure to pick a cut with a good amount of fat, as this imparts more flavor and keeps the meat moist during the slow cooking process. The spice mix calls for a range of spices, including chili powder, cumin, and cayenne, which are also widely available. The less common spices like cloves and cinnamon add a distinctive depth to the pork's flavor profile.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos
Chili powder: This robust and smoky spice forms the backbone of the flavour profile.
Pork shoulder roast: Chosen for its fat content which ensures a moist and tender meat.
Olive oil: Used to brown the pork, enhancing the meat's flavor.
Avocado: Adds a creamy texture and richness to the tacos.
Radishes: Provides a crunchy texture and a peppery kick.
Cabbage: Gives a fresh and crisp contrast to the rich meat.
Tortillas: The vessel for the ingredients. Opt for corn tortillas for a more authentic taste.
Lime juice: Gives a tangy freshness that cuts through the richness of the pork.
Salsa: Adds a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor that complements the pork beautifully.
One reader, Jimmy Leong says:
This slow cooker Mexican pulled pork tacos recipe is a game-changer! The pork is incredibly tender and flavorful, and the spices create an authentic Mexican taste. It's so easy to prepare and makes for a delicious, satisfying meal. I highly recommend trying it out for a delightful culinary experience!
Techniques for Making Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos
How to prepare the spice rub: Whisk together the chili powder, kosher salt, brown sugar, cumin, cayenne, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, cinnamon, and cloves in a small bowl until well combined.
How to rub the spice mix into the roast: Pat the pork shoulder roast dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mix into the roast all over, ensuring it is evenly coated. Reserve any leftover spice mix for later use.
How to brown the roast: Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the roast in the pan and brown on all sides. If using a slow cooker with a removable stovetop-safe container, you can use that instead.
How to cook the pork in the slow cooker: Place the browned roast in the slow cooker and add any reserved spice rub. Cook on the low setting for 6 to 10 hours, until the pork is tender and easily falls apart.
How to shred the pork: Once the pork is cooked, remove the roast from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Cut it into large chunks, then use two forks to pull the meat apart into bite-sized shreds. Alternatively, you can shred the roast with two forks directly in the slow cooker itself.
How to serve the tacos: Serve the shredded pork with warm tortillas, sliced avocado, shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, and a splash of fresh lime juice or salsa.
How To Make Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos
Enjoy your tacos more with a savory filling made of Mexican pulled pork slow-cooked to tender and flavorful spiced perfection, then served in tortillas!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Spice Rub:
- 4tbspchili powder
- 1tbspkosher salt
- 1tbspbrown sugar
- 2tspcumin,ground
- 1tspcayenne
- 1tsporegano,ground
- 1tsponion powder
- 1tspgarlic powder
- ¼tspcinnamon
- pinchcloves,ground, scant
For Pork:
- 3½lbspork shoulder roast,boneless
- 2tbspextra-virgin olive oil
For Tacos:
- avocado,sliced
- radishes,sliced
- cabbage,thinly sliced
- warm tortillas,corn, or flour
- fresh squeezed lime juice
- salsa
Instructions
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Whisk together all the rub ingredients in a small bowl.
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If the roast is tied up with butcher string, untie it. Pat the roast dry with paper towels.
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Rub the spice mix into the roast all over, reserving any leftover spice mix for later.
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Let sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour or chill overnight.
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Heat the olive oil in a frying pan on medium-high heat. (If using a slow cooker with a removable container that can be used on the stovetop, use that, otherwise use a separate pan.)
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Place the roast in the pan and brown on all sides.
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Place the roast in a Slow Cooker, and add any reserved spice rub.
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Cook on the Low setting for 6 to 10 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.
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Remove the roast from the slow cooker and place on a cutting board. Cut into large chunks.
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Then use 2 forks to pull the meat apart into bite-sized shreds.
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Return the shreds to the slow cooker and toss to coat with the juice from the roast. (Alternatively, just shred the roast with 2 forks in the slow cooker itself.)
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Serve with warm tortillas, avocados, shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, cilantro, and a splash of lime juice or salsa.
Recipe Notes
- This recipe uses a boneless pork roast. If using regular table salt, only use 2 teaspoons.
- If using bone-in, there may be a need to cook the roast a little longer. There may be a need to trim off the excess fat of the roast. Be cautious against trimming too much fat as it is needed for the flavor and the juicy tenderness of this Mexican pulled pork. It’s okay to skim off some of the excess fat after the roast has cooked.
Nutrition
- Calories: 421.26kcal
- Fat: 28.70g
- Saturated Fat: 9.23g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.01g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.90g
- Carbohydrates: 4.42g
- Fiber: 1.83g
- Sugar: 1.47g
- Protein: 35.37g
- Cholesterol: 123.04mg
- Sodium: 486.12mg
- Calcium: 58.36mg
- Potassium: 738.58mg
- Iron: 3.45mg
- Vitamin A: 68.46µg
- Vitamin C: 0.32mg
Expert Tip for Making Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos
When preparing the pork shoulder roast, it's important to remember that browning the meat before slow cooking it helps to seal in the juices and gives the roast a nice, caramelized exterior. This step, known as searing, enhances the flavor of the final dish. Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the roast, and don't move it around too much while it's browning. This will allow a rich, brown crust to form, adding depth to your pork tacos.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pulled Pork Tacos
Prep ahead: Prepare the spice rub and marinate the pork the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a slow cooker: Let the slow cooker do the work for you while you attend to other tasks.
Buy pre-shredded cabbage: Save time by purchasing pre-shredded cabbage from the store instead of shredding it yourself.
Invest in a good quality slow cooker: A high-quality slow cooker can cook the pork more efficiently, saving you time and effort.
Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra pulled pork for future quick and easy meals.
Prep your toppings: Prepare your taco toppings in advance to streamline the taco assembly process.
Utilize store-bought salsa: Save time by using store-bought salsa instead of making it from scratch.
Opt for a pressure cooker: Consider using a pressure cooker for faster cooking time if you're short on time.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos Recipe
chili powder - Substitute with ancho chili powder: Ancho chili powder has a slightly smokier and milder flavor compared to regular chili powder, adding a unique depth to the dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt in the same quantity, providing a similar level of saltiness.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich sweetness similar to brown sugar and also brings a hint of caramel flavor to the dish.
cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander has a similar earthy and citrusy flavor profile to cumin, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
cayenne - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can provide a mild heat and a smoky flavor, similar to cayenne, but with a more complex taste.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for oregano, providing a slightly different herbal flavor that complements the dish.
onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped fresh onions: Fresh onions can be used as a substitute for onion powder, adding a more intense and aromatic flavor to the dish.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced fresh garlic: Minced fresh garlic can replace garlic powder, offering a more pungent and fresh garlic flavor to the recipe.
cinnamon - Substitute with allspice: Allspice can provide a warm and slightly sweet flavor similar to cinnamon, adding depth to the spice rub.
cloves - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used as a substitute for cloves, offering a warm and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
pork shoulder roast - Substitute with beef chuck roast: Beef chuck roast can be used as a substitute for pork shoulder, providing a rich and flavorful base for the tacos.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for extra-virgin olive oil, offering a mild and buttery flavor to the dish.
avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole can be used as a substitute for sliced avocado, providing a creamy and flavorful topping for the tacos.
radishes - Substitute with jicama: Jicama can add a similar crunchy texture and mild, refreshing flavor to the tacos as a substitute for radishes.
cabbage - Substitute with shredded lettuce: Shredded lettuce can be used as a substitute for cabbage, providing a crisp and fresh element to the tacos.
warm tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas can be used as a substitute for flour tortillas, offering a slightly different texture and flavor to the tacos.
fresh squeezed lime juice - Substitute with fresh squeezed lemon juice: Fresh squeezed lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice, providing a similar citrusy acidity to the dish.
salsa - Substitute with pico de gallo: Pico de gallo can be used as a substitute for salsa, offering a fresh and chunky topping for the tacos.
Presentation Tips for Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos
Elevate the taco presentation: Start by warming the tortillas and then carefully layer the pulled pork on top. Arrange the avocado slices, shredded cabbage, and sliced radishes in an artful manner to create a visually appealing taco.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the tacos to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Create a vibrant salsa display: Present a variety of colorful salsas in small, individual serving dishes, such as a classic tomato salsa, tangy tomatillo salsa, and spicy chipotle salsa, to offer a range of flavors and textures.
Artfully arrange lime wedges: Place the lime wedges on the serving platter in a decorative pattern, adding a touch of brightness and acidity to the dish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce edible flowers, such as marigold petals or nasturtium blooms, to add a delicate and elegant touch to the overall presentation.
Utilize unique serving vessels: Consider using handmade ceramic or artisanal serving dishes to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the taco ingredients.
Add a touch of heat with chili garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over the tacos for a hint of heat and a visually striking element.
Create a visually appealing plating: Pay attention to the arrangement of the components on the plate, ensuring a balanced and visually appealing presentation that showcases the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pulled Pork Tacos
- Knife: A sharp knife is essential for trimming and cutting the pork shoulder roast.
- Cutting board: Use a sturdy cutting board to prepare and cut the pork shoulder roast.
- Small bowl: A small bowl is needed to mix the spice rub ingredients.
- Paper towels: These are used to pat the roast dry before applying the spice rub.
- Frying pan: A frying pan is used to brown the pork shoulder roast before transferring it to the slow cooker.
- Slow cooker: The main equipment for this recipe, the slow cooker is used to cook the pork shoulder roast until it is tender and easy to shred.
- Tongs: Tongs are useful for transferring the browned pork shoulder roast into the slow cooker.
- Cutting board: A clean cutting board is needed to shred the cooked pork shoulder roast.
- Forks: Two forks are used to pull the cooked pork shoulder roast into bite-sized shreds.
- Serving platter: A serving platter is useful for presenting the pulled pork tacos.
Storing and Freezing Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos
- Once the pork is cooked and shredded, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Transfer the cooled pulled pork to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, making sure to include some of the cooking juices to keep the meat moist.
- Refrigerate the pulled pork for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the pulled pork:
- Divide the cooled meat into portion-sized freezer bags or airtight containers, along with some of the cooking juices.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the bags or containers with the date and amount of pork.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen pulled pork:
- Thaw the frozen pork in the refrigerator overnight.
- Place the thawed pork and its juices in a saucepan or microwave-safe dish.
- Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until the pork is heated through and steaming, stirring occasionally.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen pulled pork directly in the slow cooker:
- Place the frozen pork and its juices in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is heated through and steaming.
- Use the reheated pulled pork in tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or any other desired dish.
How To Reheat Leftover Pulled Pork Tacos
- Reheat the pulled pork in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method allows you to crisp up some of the edges of the pork, adding a nice texture to your tacos.
- Place the leftover pulled pork in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the pork halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pulled pork in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the pork and is ideal for larger quantities.
- For a quick and easy reheat, place the pulled pork in a slow cooker, add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture, and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through.
- If you have a sous vide machine, place the pulled pork in a vacuum-sealed bag and reheat it in a water bath at 140°F (60°C) for about an hour. This method ensures that the pork is evenly heated and retains its original texture and moisture.
- When reheating tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until warm and pliable. Alternatively, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
- To reheat toppings like avocado, radishes, and cabbage, it's best to prepare them fresh for optimal taste and texture. However, if you have leftover salsa, you can reheat it in a microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Interesting Trivia About Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos
Pulled pork is a popular dish in the southern United States, particularly in the Carolinas. It is traditionally made from the pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, and is slow-cooked until it is tender and easily shredded. This method of cooking the pork allows the flavors to develop and creates a deliciously tender and flavorful meat that is perfect for tacos, sandwiches, and more.
Is Making Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos Cost-Effective?
This slow cooker Mexican pulled pork tacos recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as pork shoulder roast, avocado, and cabbage, are affordable and versatile. The pork shoulder roast is a budget-friendly cut, and the slow cooking process maximizes its flavor. With an approximate cost of $20, this recipe can feed a family of four, making it a great economical choice. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, delicious flavors, and versatility for leftovers.
Is This Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos Recipe Healthy?
The slow cooker Mexican pulled pork tacos recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of chili powder, salt, and brown sugar in the spice rub, which can contribute to high sodium and sugar intake.
- Pork shoulder is a fatty cut of meat, and while some fat is essential for flavor and tenderness, excessive consumption of saturated fat can lead to health issues.
- The recipe doesn't include a significant amount of vegetables, which are crucial for a balanced and nutritious meal.
However, the recipe does have some positive aspects:
- The use of spices like cumin, cayenne, oregano, onion powder, and garlic powder can provide beneficial antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
- The toppings suggested, such as avocado, radishes, cabbage, and lime juice, add freshness, fiber, and vitamins to the dish.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of salt and brown sugar in the spice rub, and opt for low-sodium alternatives when possible.
- Trim any visible fat from the pork shoulder before cooking to reduce the overall fat content.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the tacos, such as grilled bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes, to increase the nutrient density of the meal.
- Use whole grain tortillas instead of regular ones to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates.
- Serve the pulled pork with a side of leafy greens or a fresh salad to balance out the meal.
- Control portion sizes by using smaller tortillas or lettuce wraps, and limit the amount of high-calorie toppings like sour cream or cheese.
Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork Recipe
This slow cooker Mexican pulled pork tacos recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The spice rub infuses the pork with a rich, aromatic taste, while the slow cooking process ensures the meat becomes tender and succulent. The addition of avocado, radishes, and cabbage provides a refreshing contrast, and when combined with warm tortillas and a splash of lime juice or salsa, the result is a mouthwatering explosion of Mexican-inspired goodness. It's a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to impress at any gathering or family meal.
Enhance Your Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a flavorful and authentic Mexican experience, as it incorporates a well-balanced blend of spices to infuse the pork with rich and aromatic flavors. The slow cooking process ensures tender, succulent pork that effortlessly pulls apart, promising a mouthwatering texture. Additionally, the use of fresh ingredients such as avocado, radishes, and cabbage further enhances the dish's authenticity and nutritional value. With a meticulous cooking method and a harmonious combination of ingredients, this recipe is a testament to its reliability and trustworthiness.
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