Who can resist the mouthwatering allure of Pork Carnitas Street Tacos? Prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors unlike any taco recipe you’ve ever tasted. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for future reference!
Picture this: tender pork carnitas, perfectly seasoned to tantalize your taste buds, and served on warm tortillas. These street tacos are a real crowd-pleaser, ideal for sharing with friends and family. But be warned, they’re so delicious that you might find yourself eating them all in one sitting!
Key Takeaways
A World of Taco Favorites
Tacos have become an irresistible obsession for many, and here in the southwest, the variety is endless. From classic street tacos to mouthwatering chicken and succulent tri-tip varieties, the taco scene is booming.
But today, we’re focusing on one of my personal favorites: pork carnitas tacos. And lucky for you, I’m about to share my go-to recipe!
The Art of Crafting Pork Carnitas Street Tacos
Making these flavorful pork carnitas street tacos is an art form in itself. Here’s the step-by-step process to achieve taco perfection:
- Begin by cutting up the pork and generously rubbing each piece with salt.
- Heat oil in a large stockpot, then brown all sides of the pork until golden.
- Add in the spices, orange slices, onion, and broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer for about an hour.
- While the pork cooks, whip up an easy and delicious red chile sauce.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Once the pork is cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and use a fork to shred it.
- Place the shredded pork on a baking sheet and generously spoon on some of the leftover broth.
- Bake the pork in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then spoon more broth over it and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Fry up some taco shells, assemble your tacos, and top them off with the red chile sauce, onion, and fresh cilantro.
It’s an exciting journey from start to finish, and the end result will take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure.
Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt – The Great Mystery
Confusion often arises when it comes to pork shoulder and pork butt, as they are essentially the same cut of meat. Yes, it’s a bit perplexing, but that’s just how it is. Both cuts come from the shoulder of the pig and cook down into delicious pulled pork, perfect for tacos, stews, or even sliders.
For the best deal on pork butt, head to Sam’s or Costco. However, don’t overlook Walmart—they often have great options too. I usually buy an 8lb portion, freezing half for later use.
The Perfect Temperature for Pork Carnitas
When it comes to enjoying your pork carnitas tacos safely, the internal temperature is crucial. Pork butt needs to reach 145°F before it’s considered safe to eat. However, if you want tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork, I highly recommend cooking it until it reaches between 200°F and 210°F. To ensure accuracy, I rely on my trusty Dash thermometer for quick and precise temperature readings.
At this higher temperature, the cartilage in the pork breaks down, resulting in irresistibly tender meat that shreds effortlessly—a perfect filling for tacos.
A Symphony of Sauces for Your Tacos
Of course, no taco is complete without a delicious sauce. While my personal favorite for authentic pork carnitas tacos is red chile sauce, I also recommend trying my cilantro lime sauce for a burst of fresh flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, give my mango salsa or salsa verde recipes a try—they’re sure to elevate your taco game.
And if you’re in the mood for some visual inspiration, head over to my YouTube channel and watch how I make my signature red chile sauce. It’s easier than you think!
Pro tip: If you prefer a smoother texture for your red chile sauce, simply blend it a little longer and strain out any lingering bits. Voilà!
The Finishing Touch
The moment you’ve been waiting for has arrived. Sink your teeth into these incredible tacos, packed with tender pork, hints of orange, and a medley of flavorful spices. And to complete the experience, serve them alongside a refreshing glass of lemonade or a cool watermelon slushy.
But wait, there’s more! Don’t forget to explore these other mouthwatering recipes:
- Smoked Chicken
- Best Homemade Hamburgers
- Green Chile Burgers
- Green Chile Stew
- Lucky Charms Cookies
- Homemade Chocolate Cake
- Easy Lemon Cookies
Now, gather your ingredients, unleash your culinary prowess, and embark on a journey to taco bliss. And if you’re ready to take your taste buds on an even wilder adventure, visit Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ to discover more delectable recipes.
