Crispy pork tacos, a delectable delight, combine tender, juicy pork with a crunchy texture, packed within warm tortillas. Offering a fusion of rich flavors and crispy goodness, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser for those craving a satisfying and crispy twist on traditional taco recipes.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Who this meal appeals to: Ideal for individuals seeking a savory and indulgent taco experience, perfect for pork enthusiasts.
- Estimated Duration: Preparation and cooking time typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Nutrition Facts: Crispy pork tacos contain approximately 350-450 calories, providing a good source of protein and essential nutrients.
About This Recipe
Crispy pork tacos involve slow-cooked, tender pork meat that’s shredded and crisped up for a delightful texture, perfectly paired with fresh toppings. The recipe’s charm lies in the contrast between the tender meat and the satisfying crunch.
Equipment Required
- Slow cooker or Dutch oven
- Baking sheet
- Skillet
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings: diced onions, chopped cilantro, salsa, lime wedges
Instructions
- Preparation: Rub the pork shoulder with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place it in the slow cooker or Dutch oven and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours until tender and easily shreddable.
- Shredding and Crisping: Once cooked, transfer the pork to a baking sheet and shred it using two forks. Drizzle with oil and broil in the oven for 5-10 minutes until it crisps up.
- Heating Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
- Assembly: Fill each tortilla with the crispy pork and top it with diced onions, cilantro, salsa, and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Serve: Fold or roll the tortillas and serve immediately.
Side Dishes
Pair your crispy pork tacos with these delightful side options:
- Mexican rice
- Charro beans
- Grilled pineapple or mango salsa
Storage Options
Store any leftover shredded pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet for a crispy texture and assemble fresh tacos with toppings when ready to serve.
Ingredient Substitutes
Explore different variations by trying out alternative ingredients:
- Use different pork cuts like pork loin or pork tenderloin for a leaner option.
- Experiment with additional seasonings such as chili powder or oregano for diverse flavors.
Alternatives to This Meal
Diversify your taco experience with these tasty alternatives:
- Chicken tacos with crispy chicken strips
- Beef tacos using shredded or crispy beef
- Veggie tacos with crispy tofu or tempeh
If you’re still searching for taco ideas, then why not take a look at our Top 35 taco recipes.
Conclusion
Crispy pork tacos provide a delightful contrast between tender, flavorful pork and a satisfying crunch, offering a scrumptious twist to traditional taco recipes. Enjoy the fusion of rich, slow-cooked pork with the satisfying crunch, accompanied by fresh toppings for a truly satisfying and indulgent taco experience!