Mouth-Watering BBQ Pork Tacos Recipe For Summer!
Attention all foodies and lovers of pulled pork! If you haven’t tried my BBQ Pork Tacos recipe yet, then you are seriously missing out. I’m a professional chef, and I’ve spent countless hours perfecting this recipe to deliver a mouth-watering flavor and texture that will leave you craving for more.
Picture this – tender pulled pork coated in a savory and sticky BBQ sauce, stuffed inside warm and soft corn tortillas with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and zesty red onions. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that blend perfectly together in one delicious package.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a laid-back weeknight dinner, a weekend potluck with friends, or an outdoor BBQ party, my BBQ Pork Tacos are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
So, dust off your slow cooker (or instant pot) and gather up the ingredients because it’s time to get cooking! Trust me; these tacos are like nothing you’ve ever tasted before.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Friend, if you’re looking for a recipe that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy, you’ve come to the right place. I’m about to introduce you to a dish that’s going to rock your world – BBQ pork tacos. Trust me when I say this: You won’t find a better pork taco recipe out there.
What sets these tacos apart is the juicy and tender pulled pork. The pork is seasoned to perfection with garlic powder, brown sugar, and other spices before being slow cooked in BBQ sauce. This results in a smoky, rich flavor that’ll leave you wanting more.
But what’s a good taco without perfect toppings? These tacos are topped with diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, pickled onions, and a creamy coleslaw that adds a refreshing crunch to every bite. The combination of all these flavors creates a party in your mouth that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.
Another fantastic thing about this recipe is how easy it is to make. All you need is a slow cooker, some basic ingredients found in any grocery store, and time for the magic to happen. In the end, you’ll have enough tender pulled pork for leftovers or for feeding a crowd.
So say goodbye to dull and bland weekday meals and whip up these BBQ pork tacos instead. The result will be an explosion of flavors in your mouth that you won’t forget anytime soon.
Ingredient List
Before you start cooking, let’s make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this BBQ Pork Tacos recipe:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, boneless and cut into large pieces for slow cooking.
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce – Use your favorite brand or homemade.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, enough to season one side of the meat.
- Corn tortillas – at least 12 tacos. I prefer crispy tacos, but you can use soft tortillas if you wish.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped – it adds a delicious freshness to your taco.
- Diced tomatoes – fresh or canned, it’s up to you!
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Lemon juice – A tablespoon or two will add some acidity to balance out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
- Melted cheese – optional but highly recommended!
The ingredient list is pretty basic, and you may already have most of these items in your kitchen pantry. In case you don’t have pork shoulder or pork butt around, feel free to use pork tenderloin instead. It’s a leaner option and will work well with this recipe. You can also substitute BBQ sauce for another condiment like Korean BBQ for an awesome twist! Any leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen up to three months to enjoy later. Now that we got all ingredients ready let’s jump into the cooking process!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve discussed the ingredients for this delicious BBQ Pork Tacos Recipe, let’s get down to the how-to part. Follow these easy steps to achieve an incredibly tasty taco dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
- Begin by preheating your slow cooker or Instant Pot.
- Place the pork shoulder in your slow cooker or Instant Pot with 2-3 cups of water and cook on high for 4-8 hours or until the meat is tender enough to easily pull apart.
- For added flavor, rub the pork with a mixture of brown sugar, garlic powder, salt and pepper before placing it in the slow cooker.
Note: If you already have leftover pulled pork, you can skip this step.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
Now it’s time to create the sauce! In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- The juice of half a lemon
- 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar (depending on how sweet you like it)
Stir well and set aside.
Step 3: Shred the Pork
Once your pork is cooked and tender, use two forks to shred it into small pieces. Place it back in the slow cooker (if not already) or in a separate serving dish.
Pour the sauce mixed earlier over your pulled pork and mix well until all pieces are coated evenly.
Step 4: Prepare Your Tacos
For mouth-watering pork tacos follow these instructions:
- Heat up some corn tortillas (crisping them up on a pan is optional).
- Take a generous amount of your bbq pulled pork using a measuring spoon.
- Place them on top of each tortilla.
Extras
For an added layer of freshness and extra crunch, top your tacos with fresh cilantro, diced onions and tomatoes, and maybe even some shredded cheese. Other great toppings include creamy coleslaw, pickled onions, pineapple slaw or even smoked pulled pork à la Korean BBQ.
Enjoy those crispy BBQ Pork Tacos made from my recipe at home!
Substitutions and Variations
Now, let’s talk about some substitutions and variations you can make to this BBQ Pork Tacos recipe. As any good chef knows, sometimes you have to improvise in the kitchen and make adjustments based on what you have on hand or personal taste preferences. Here are a few suggestions:
– Meat variations: While this recipe calls for pork shoulder or butt, you can also use pork tenderloin or even leftover pulled pork for a shortcut. Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try making these tacos with smoked pulled pork or Korean BBQ-style pork for a unique twist.
– Sauce variations: We use a combination of bbq sauce and ketchup for the sauce in this recipe, but you can switch up the ratios or try using a homemade BBQ sauce instead. For an extra kick of flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of hot sauce to the mix.
– Tortilla variations: Corn tortillas are traditional for tacos, but feel free to use flour tortillas if that’s what you prefer. You can also experiment with taco shells or crispy taco bowls for a different texture.
– Slaw variations: We recommend serving these tacos with a creamy coleslaw on top, but you can switch up the slaw recipe as well. Try making a pineapple slaw for a tropical twist or pickled onions for a tangy crunch.
Whatever substitutions or variations you choose, don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and make this recipe your own. The possibilities are endless!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving these BBQ Pork Tacos, it’s all about the tortillas! I recommend using simple, fresh corn tortillas for this recipe. I like to warm them slightly over an open flame or in a dry frying pan until they are soft and slightly blistered.
Once your tortillas are ready, it’s time to layer on the tender pulled pork along with all of your favorite toppings. I suggest topping these tacos with diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion and fresh cilantro leaves. You can also sprinkle some crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese on top for some extra flavor.
And what is a taco without its sidekick? You can’t go wrong with a creamy coleslaw or a refreshing pineapple slaw as a perfect cool complement to the smoky BBQ pork flavors. Alternatively, pickled onions could be used for those who love an acidic taste.
These pork tacos are best paired with a cold beer or margarita, also fruity ones work well here too.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the joys of making pulled pork tacos is that you can prepare them in advance or make an extra-large batch to enjoy throughout the week. To make-ahead with ease, wrap the cooked pulled pork tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in airtight containers or resealable bags that are labeled and dated. This meat will last up to three days in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating pulled pork can be done using conventional ovens, microwaves, or on the stovetop. If you are using a microwave, be sure to cover your dish with damp paper towels or plate cover to lock in moisture. Cook for short intervals at 30-second intervals until heated through.
If you want to recreate the crispy BBQ texture of freshly cooked tacos, try reheating pulled pork in a hot skillet with BBQ sauce for an intensive flavor burst. You can also sprinkle additional garlic powder and diced tomatoes for that extra zing.
In terms of serving make-ahead taco shells, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature until they are ready to be used. A good tip for heating frozen shells is to place them directly on the stovetop flame for just a few seconds each side – just enough to ensure they are soft enough to bend without breaking.
Storing leftover pulled pork can also be time-saving when making future batches of Pork Tacos. I personally love using it for sandwiches or adding it into scrambled eggs with sliced avocado and pickled onions. To make it into a hearty sandwich mixture add some mayo, ketchup and onion slices before placing under hot grill – this will create a delicious crusty top layer which complements juicy flavors. Additionally, consider pairing your reheated Pork Tacos with creamy coleslaw or pineapple slaw that has been appropriately stored so you can enjoy its freshness even after a day or two!
Tips for Perfect Results
Cooking the perfect BBQ pork tacos can be intimidating, but with a few tips and tricks, your dish will turn out perfectly every time. Here are some tips to ensure that your pork tacos are tender, flavorful, and mouth-watering.
Firstly, don’t overcook the pork. While it may seem counterintuitive, cooking too long can result in dry meat that is tough and hard to bite. Instead, aim for tender pulled pork by cooking it low and slow. To accomplish this, use a slow cooker or an instant pot to cook your pork for four to eight hours on high heat or six to ten hours on low heat.
Secondly, prepare your pork properly before cooking. This means trimming off excess fat and removing the bone if necessary. Season the pork shoulder with brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to give it extra flavor. Don’t forget to add liquid to the cooker such as 1-2 cups of water or flavorful juice like lemon juice.
Thirdly, give your tacos some texture with crispy BBQ flavor. After cooking the pork, place it in a baking dish and coat it with BBQ sauce. Then broil in the oven until browned and crispy for about 3-5 minutes per side. Serve alongside melted cheese on tortillas 1-2 minutes after placing them in the oven which creates a crispy exterior.
Fourthly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of BBQ pulled pork! Try adding different ingredients like pineapple slaw or pickled onions to shake up your taco game or venture into Korean bbq pulled pork flavors.
Lastly, remember to let your cooked meat rest before serving by giving it about ten minutes before shredding with a fork or two forks then serve on corn tortillas which make great shell choices as they are less heavy compared to taco shells.
By following these tips and tricks for making BBQ Pork Tacos Recipe you’ll impress all those tastebuds at dinner parties or even quiet dinners at home.
FAQ
Now it’s time for some Frequently Asked Questions about this BBQ Pork Tacos recipe. I know that sometimes the recipe instructions can be confusing or there can be doubts about some ingredients, so I’m here to clarify everything for you. Also, keep in mind that cooking is an art and sometimes you need to trust your instincts and adjust things to your personal taste. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions you might have and let’s get started!
What goes well on pork tacos?
For toppings on your tacos, you can choose between shredded jack cheese or crumbled cotija cheese, whichever your preference may be. To add some freshness and crunch, I recommend using thinly shredded green cabbage, chopped cilantro, and finely chopped raw white onion. For your choice of sauce, you can use either Mexican crema or sour cream, and you can also add some guacamole or avocado slices for additional creaminess. To add some acidity, I recommend using Pico de Gallo. If you want to take it up a notch, you can serve Homemade Refried Beans on the bottom of the tacos or as a side dish.
What is the secret to tender pulled pork?
For the most succulent and tender pulled pork, the trick is to cook it slowly and at a low temperature. You can opt to savor the pork without any addition or stir in some BBQ or sauces of your choice towards the end of cooking.
What is the best meat for BBQ pork?
If you’re in search of a cut of meat that will give you a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a deep, savory taste, pork butt may just be the answer. While this cut is commonly used for classic barbecue dishes like pulled pork and carnitas, it’s also perfect for slow-cooking methods like braising and stewing. When prepared properly, the fat in pork butt will break down and create a tender, succulent dish that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
What goes best with pulled pork tacos?
Taco aficionados swear by the perfect combination of toppings that make a taco truly special. While some prefer fruit-based salsas, others may opt for tomato-based ones, or reach for a jar of their go-to salsa. But let’s not forget the beloved guacamole, which perfectly complements any taco, be it chicken or beef. And of course, who can have a taco without the satisfying crunch of shredded lettuce or cabbage? But one thing that can’t be forgotten is the indispensable presence of cheese – wonderfully melted on top of juicy meat and tantalizingly spicy salsa.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Yy4iJJ8kAA
Bottom Line
Now that you’ve read about how to make BBQ Pork Tacos, I hope I’ve convinced you to give this recipe a try. With its tender pulled pork and crispy BBQ flavor, it’s a meal that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends.
But don’t take my word for it, let the flavors speak for themselves. Gather up your ingredients and give this recipe a go. From the tangy BBQ sauce to the creamy coleslaw topping, there is no doubt that every bite of these tacos will be packed with flavor.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your topping choices. Whether you prefer pickled onions or pineapple slaw, this recipe can be easily customized to fit your preferences.
So what are you waiting for? Get cooking! Once you try these BBQ Pork Tacos, they will become a staple in your recipe collection.
BBQ Pork Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork loin
- 2 cups barbecue sauce
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 red onion, minced
- 6 diced tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 lemon, juice of
- salt and pepper
- 25 corn tortillas
Instructions
- PORK.
- Place pork in a pot, ketchup, barbecue sauce, garlic powder and water, simmer for an hour and a half, until the meat is very soft. You can use a slow cooker.
- SALAD.
- Place all ingredients in a bowl stir well.
- TO SERVE.
- Heat 2 tortillas and place 2 tablespoons of meat and a teaspoon of salad, and ready to enjoy.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Chloe
Chloe is passionate about creating unique dishes that draw on the flavors of her favorite cultures. She loves experimenting with new ingredients and pushing the boundaries of traditional recipes. Her enthusiasm for cooking is infectious, and she is always eager to share her creations with friends and family.