Slow Cooked Pulled Pork Tacos

Slow Cooked Pulled Pork Tacos
Slow Cooked Pulled Pork Tacos
I modeled these tacos after my husband's favorite local Mexican restaurant. My husband now prefers mine and requests them often.
  • Preparing Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 hours and 45 minutes
  • Served Person: 10
cinco de mayo slow cook pork snacks sandwiches main dish brunch mexican spring spicy (hot) spicy winter white meat free tree nut free nut free gluten free contains red meat shellfish free contains dairy slow cooker
  • 2 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
  • 2 tablespoon lime juice
  • 4 teaspoons salt
  • 4 pounds pork butt or shoulder (up to 6 pounds)
  • 2 poblano peppers roughly chopped
  • 1 large yellow onion roughly chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic smashed
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper divided
  • 4 teaspoons cumin divided
  • 4 teaspoons emeril's essence or similar spice mix, divided
  • 1 package white corn tortillas
  • 1 package queso blanco or monteray jack chees shredded
  • 4 whole limes sliced in wedges, 4-6 limes
  • 1 jar salsa verde
  • 1 container sour cream
  • Carbohydrate 16.9269559806183 g
  • Cholesterol 135.024 mg
  • Fat 29.7433045833342 g
  • Fiber 2.46615919641278 g
  • Protein 33.5784134375055 g
  • Saturated Fat 12.4136562958334 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (304g)
  • Sodium 359.35719590096 mg
  • Sugar 14.4607967842055 g
  • Trans Fat 3.12460241458374 g
  • Calories 459 calories

My Husband's Favorite Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos

These tacos are a family favorite, a testament to how a simple recipe can become a cherished tradition. I created this recipe inspired by my husband's beloved local Mexican restaurant, aiming to recreate the tender, flavorful pulled pork he loved so much. It didn't take long to realize I'd actually surpassed the original! Now, he requests *my* version more often, a true compliment to any home cook. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the pork to become incredibly tender and infused with rich, smoky flavors. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, effortlessly transforming into a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings. Preparing the ingredients is a breeze – a quick chop here, a squeeze there – and the intoxicating aroma that fills the kitchen as the pork simmers is simply irresistible.

The magic happens in the slow cooker. The combination of onions, garlic, poblano peppers, and a blend of spices creates a flavorful base that perfectly complements the richness of the pork. I use a generous amount of my favorite spice blend – you can experiment with different combinations to find your own perfect match. The Worcestershire sauce adds a touch of umami, while the lime juice brightens the overall flavor profile. The slow cooking process allows the pork to break down, resulting in a texture that's both tender and juicy. Once it's cooked, simply shred the pork with two forks, removing any excess fat. From there, it's all about assembly. I prefer warm corn tortillas, but flour tortillas work equally well. Then, it's a fiesta of textures and flavors – creamy sour cream, spicy salsa, and the satisfying melt of queso blanco all atop that melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving adds that final touch of brightness and freshness.

Beyond the Recipe: This recipe isn't just about the food; it's about the memories created around the table. The aroma of slow-cooked pork fills our home with warmth and anticipation. It's a dish that brings my family together, a simple pleasure that reminds us of the importance of shared meals and cherished moments. It’s a recipe I'm happy to share, hoping that it brings the same joy and satisfaction to your kitchen as it does to mine. The flexibility of this recipe is what truly makes it special. You can adjust the spice level to your preference, add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or experiment with different types of cheese. Feel free to customize it to your liking! Ultimately, the best part is seeing my family enjoy this dish, a testament to the power of simple, home-cooked meals and the love that goes into each bite. It's a recipe that reflects the heart of our home, a gathering spot for laughter, conversations, and the comforting aroma of slow-cooked perfection.

Tips and Variations:

  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Add some veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
  • Make it a meal prep: Prepare a large batch of pulled pork on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week in tacos, burritos, or salads.
  • Cheese it up: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or even a Mexican blend.
  • Get creative with toppings: Add your favorite taco toppings, such as pickled onions, shredded lettuce, or guacamole.

This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

    • To the slow cooker add onion, garlic, poblano peppers, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, and cilantro.
    • Season each side of the pork with half the seasonings and place in slow cooker, fat side up.
    • Cover and slow cook on high for 4 to 6 hours until tender.
    • Before serving, remove as much fat as possible from the pork then shred with two forks.
    • Warm corn tortillas in the oven, then top with pork, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
    • Serve with lime wedge to be squeezed over the taco just before eating.
    • You could also garnish with some extra chopped cilantro.