When pork shoulder is cooked low and gradual, it transforms into the most smooth, soften-in-the-mouth, juicy and delicious meat. Not handiest are you able to pile it excessive on soft tacos and revel in for your subsequent Mexican night.
However you may additionally freeze to revel in in many different meals like nachos, quesadillas, burrito bowls or brioche sliders, making it this kind of terrific circle of relatives dinner choice. Any meal that I can cook once and consume twice is a win in my book, plus you have the brought advantage of this being clean.
They may be served with all your own family’s preferred Mexican toppings or, in case you want to strive something sparkling and zingy, the quick pickled red cabbage within the recipe works a treat. This generously serves four–6 people with lots of leftovers!
What Is the Great Beef Reduce to Apply for Pulled Beef?
Pork shoulder is nice as it has the choicest fats content material to create soft, melt-in-the-mouth, juicy pulled pork, combined with a low and slow cooking method.
There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a juicy taco bursting with flavor—and when it comes to tacos, Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos (a.k.a. Tacos de Carnitas) top the list.
Whether you're planning a casual weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, these tacos bring restaurant-quality flavor right into your kitchen.
Why Carnitas Make the Perfect Taco Filling?
Unlike ground beef or chicken, carnitas offer layers of deep flavor and a mix of textures: juicy inside and crispy edges. The pork is simmered slowly in its own fat or a flavorful broth until it falls apart with a fork, then lightly fried to give it that irresistible golden finish.
Ingredients for Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos
For the Carnitas:
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3–4 lbs pork shoulder (also called pork butt), boneless preferred
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1 orange (halved, juiced)
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1 lime (juiced)
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 onion, sliced
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2 tsp cumin
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1 tsp oregano
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup chicken broth
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Tacos:
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Corn or flour tortillas
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Chopped onions
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Chopped fresh cilantro
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Lime wedges
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Sliced radishes
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Salsa or hot sauce of your choice
How to Make Pulled Pork Carnitas?
Step 1: Season the Pork
Rub the pork shoulder with cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Slow-Cook
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Simmer for 3–4 hours on low (or 8 hours in a slow cooker) until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
Step 3: Crisp the Edges
Heat oil in a large skillet. Add shredded pork in batches and cook until the edges are crispy.
Assemble Your Tacos
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Add a generous spoonful of pulled pork.
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Top with chopped onion, cilantro, sliced radishes, and a squeeze of lime.
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Drizzle with your favorite salsa or hot sauce.
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Serve immediately and enjoy every bite.
Variations You Can Try
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle cotija or queso fresco on top.
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Make It Spicy: Add jalapeños or spicy chipotle crema.
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Lettuce Wraps: Make it low-carb by using romaine or iceberg lettuce leaves instead of tortillas.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
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Meal Prep Friendly: Carnitas can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 4–5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
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Reheating Tip: Re-crisp in a hot pan for the best texture.
What to Serve with Pulled Pork Tacos?
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Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice
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Refried Beans or Black Beans
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Chips and Guacamole
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Margaritas, Horchata, or Mexican Beer
Perfect for Every Occasion
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Family dinners
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Game night
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Backyard BBQs
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Cinco de Mayo celebrations
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Potlucks and parties
They're easy to make in bulk, and guests love customizing their own taco toppings.
Final Thoughts
Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos are one of those meals that never gets old. They’re bold, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. So next time you're craving something hearty and delicious, skip the takeout and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to these unforgettable tacos. You won’t regret it.
