A savory, mouth-watering taco filling can make the difference between a good meal and a great one. This shredded pork taco filling brings a blend of aromatic spices and tender, juicy pork that's been slow-cooked to perfection. It's a simple recipe that promises to deliver big flavors.
Key ingredients like ground cumin, ground coriander, and dried oregano may not be staples in every kitchen, but they are commonly found in the spice aisle of most supermarkets. However, the pork shoulder roast might require a visit to the butcher's section. It's also worth noting that using a good quality beef broth can elevate your filling to the next level. This recipe also uses bay leaves, another common spice, and a staple in many kitchens.
Ingredients for Shredded Pork Taco Filling
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth, enhancing the other flavors without overpowering them.
Ground cumin: Brings a warm, earthy flavor, adding complexity to the dish.
Ground coriander: Offers a slight citrusy note, balancing the richness of the pork.
Dried oregano: Provides a hint of sweetness and a touch of peppery spice.
Cayenne pepper: Gives the filling a spicy kick, but can be adjusted according to taste.
Pork shoulder roast: The star of the dish, it becomes incredibly tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
Beef broth: Helps tenderize the meat while adding depth and richness to the filling.
Bay leaves: Impart a subtle, almost minty flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
White onion: Adds a slight sweetness and crunch, balancing out the textures in the filling.
One reader, Corinne Gardner says:
This shredded pork taco filling recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices creates an explosion of flavor, and the pork is incredibly tender. It's a hit with my family every time. Plus, it's so versatile - we use it for tacos, burritos, and even salads. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Shredded Pork Taco Filling
How to rub the spice mixture over the pork: Combine the garlic powder, cumin, coriander, oregano, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Thoroughly rub the spice mixture over the pork.
How to cook the pork in a pressure cooker: Place the roast in a pressure cooker with the beef broth, bay leaves, and onion over medium-high heat. Seal the cooker, bring to full pressure, reduce the heat to maintain high pressure, and cook for 45 minutes.
How to shred the pork: Remove the pressure cooker from the heat and allow the pressure to drop naturally. Transfer the pork to a serving bowl and shred the meat with forks.
How to serve: Serve the shredded pork with tortillas and desired toppings. Enjoy!
How To Make Shredded Pork Taco Filling
This shredded pork taco filling delivers maximum flavors to your Tex-Mex snacks! Tender pork shoulder is roasted with beef broth for tasty taco fixings.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½tspgarlic powder
- 2tspground cumin
- 2tspground coriander
- 2tspdried oregano
- ¼tspcayenne pepper
- 1lbpork shoulder roast
- 4cupsbeef broth
- 2bay leaves
- ½largewhite onion,cut into large chunks
Instructions
-
Combine the garlic powder, cumin, coriander, oregano, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Thoroughly rub the spice mixture over the pork.
-
Place the roast in a pressure cooker with the beef broth, bay leaves, and onion over “Medium-High” heat. Seal the cooker, and bring to full pressure; reduce the heat to maintain high pressure, and cook for 45 minutes.
-
Remove the pressure cooker from the heat and allow the pressure to drop naturally. Transfer the pork to a serving bowl and shred the meat with forks.
-
Serve with tortillas and desired toppings. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 173.43kcal
- Fat: 9.81g
- Saturated Fat: 3.38g
- Trans Fat: 0.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.19g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.27g
- Carbohydrates: 4.34g
- Fiber: 0.78g
- Sugar: 1.44g
- Protein: 16.75g
- Cholesterol: 46.87mg
- Sodium: 365.11mg
- Calcium: 45.85mg
- Potassium: 584.62mg
- Iron: 2.10mg
- Vitamin A: 4.42µg
- Vitamin C: 1.27mg
Technique Tip for Perfectly Shredded Pork
When shredding the pork, it's best to let it cool slightly before handling. This makes it easier to shred and also prevents you from burning your fingers. Using two forks, pull the meat apart into thin shreds. This method works best when the meat is still warm and tender from cooking. If you find the meat is too tough to shred, it may need more time to cook. Remember, the key to tender, shredded pork is slow and low cooking.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the spice rub and marinate the pork the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a slow cooker: Consider using a slow cooker instead of a pressure cooker for a hands-off approach to cooking the pork.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the shredded pork and freeze the extra portions for future quick and easy meals.
Utilize leftovers: Repurpose leftover cooked pork into delicious tacos for a quick and convenient meal option.
Efficient shredding: Use a stand mixer to quickly and efficiently shred the cooked pork instead of using forks.
Substitute Ingredients For Shredded Pork Taco Filling Recipe
garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Minced garlic can provide a more intense and fresh garlic flavor compared to garlic powder, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground chili powder: Ground chili powder can add a similar earthy and slightly spicy flavor to the dish, complementing the pork and other spices.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground cardamom: Ground cardamom can offer a citrusy, floral note similar to coriander, adding depth to the flavor profile of the taco filling.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram shares a similar aromatic and slightly sweet flavor profile with oregano, making it a suitable substitute in the recipe.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can provide a mild heat and a smoky flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the shredded pork taco filling.
pork shoulder roast - Substitute with beef chuck roast: Beef chuck roast can be used as a flavorful alternative, offering a rich and tender texture when slow-cooked for the taco filling.
beef broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can provide a lighter yet savory base for the taco filling, complementing the spices and meat while adding depth of flavor.
bay leaves - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can impart a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall aroma and taste.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onion can be used as a suitable replacement, offering a slightly sweeter flavor and adding depth to the taco filling.
Best Way to Present Shredded Pork Tacos
Elevate the plating: When presenting the shredded pork taco filling, focus on creating an aesthetically pleasing arrangement on the plate. Consider using vibrant and fresh ingredients to add color and visual appeal to the dish.
Incorporate texture contrast: Introduce elements that provide a textural contrast to the shredded pork, such as crispy tortilla strips or a sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro, to add depth and interest to the presentation.
Highlight the pork: Showcase the star ingredient by arranging the shredded pork in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that it takes center stage on the plate.
Artful drizzling: Consider drizzling a complementary sauce or salsa in an artistic manner around the plate to add a touch of finesse to the presentation.
Garnish with precision: Use microgreens or edible flowers as a delicate garnish to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dish.
Balance and symmetry: Pay attention to the balance and symmetry of the components on the plate, creating a visually harmonious presentation that reflects attention to detail.
Use high-quality serveware: Select elegant and high-quality serveware that complements the dish, enhancing the overall presentation and elevating the dining experience for the judges.
Essential Tools for Making Shredded Pork Taco Filling
- Pressure cooker: A sealed pot that cooks food quickly using steam pressure.
- Forks: Utensils with pronged ends used for picking up and eating food.
- Bowl: A round, deep dish used for mixing ingredients or serving food.
- Tortillas: Thin, flatbread made from wheat or corn flour, used for wrapping and filling with various ingredients.
- Serving bowl: A large bowl used for serving food at the table.
- Knife: A cutting tool with a sharp blade, used for slicing and chopping ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing food.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used for measuring small amounts of ingredients accurately.
- Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Cooking pot: A deep container with a handle and a lid, used for cooking food on the stovetop.
- Food tongs: Utensils with two arms and a pivot, used for picking up and handling food.
- Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing food.
- Measuring cups: Containers used for measuring dry or liquid ingredients accurately.
- Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients.
How To Store and Freeze Shredded Pork Taco Filling
Allow the shredded pork to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and potentially causing freezer burn.
For short-term storage, place the cooled shredded pork in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to maintain freshness. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze the shredded pork for longer storage:
- Divide the cooled shredded pork into portion-sized amounts that you'll likely use for future meals. This will allow you to thaw only what you need without having to defrost the entire batch.
- Place each portion into a freezer-safe, resealable plastic bag or airtight container. If using plastic bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label each bag or container with the contents and date of freezing for easy identification later.
- Lay the bags flat in the freezer to allow them to freeze quickly and evenly. Once frozen solid, you can stack them to save space.
Frozen shredded pork can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality or flavor.
To thaw frozen shredded pork, transfer the desired portion from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw the pork in the microwave using the defrost setting, stirring occasionally to ensure even thawing.
Once thawed, reheat the shredded pork in a skillet or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Add a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain moisture during reheating.
Do not refreeze previously frozen and thawed shredded pork, as this can lead to a loss of texture and potential bacterial growth.
How To Reheat Leftover Shredded Pork Taco Filling
Stovetop method: place the leftover shredded pork in a saucepan or skillet over medium-low heat. add a splash of beef broth or water to help moisten the meat and prevent it from drying out. stir occasionally until the pork is heated through, about 5-7 minutes. this method allows you to control the moisture content and texture of the reheated pork.
Microwave method: transfer the shredded pork to a microwave-safe dish and add a small amount of beef broth or water. cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the pork is heated through. be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meat to become tough and dry.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°f (175°c). place the shredded pork in an oven-safe dish and add a small amount of beef broth or water to maintain moisture. cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is heated through. this method is ideal for reheating larger quantities of pork and helps maintain a tender texture.
Slow cooker method: if you have a slow cooker, you can use it to reheat the shredded pork while keeping it moist and tender. place the pork in the slow cooker, add a small amount of beef broth or water, and cook on low heat for 1-2 hours, or until the pork is heated through. this method is perfect for keeping the pork warm and ready to serve for an extended period.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the shredded pork with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°f (74°c) before serving. once heated, you can adjust the seasoning if needed and serve the pork with fresh tortillas and your favorite taco toppings.
Random Fact About Shredded Pork Taco Filling
Pork shoulder roast is a versatile cut of meat that is perfect for slow cooking and shredding. It is often used in Mexican cuisine for dishes such as tacos and carnitas.
Is Making Shredded Pork Taco Filling at Home Economical?
This shredded pork taco filling recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like pork shoulder roast and common spices keeps the cost down. The recipe yields a substantial amount of filling, making it suitable for a family of four. The approximate cost for this recipe for a household of four people is around $15-$20. The versatility of this filling also adds value, as it can be used in various dishes, enhancing its cost-effectiveness. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Taco Filling Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The shredded pork taco filling recipe is a flavorful and protein-rich dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The recipe calls for a fatty cut of pork (pork shoulder), which is high in saturated fat and calories.
- The use of beef broth adds additional fat and sodium to the dish.
- The recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.
However, the recipe does include a blend of aromatic spices, such as cumin, coriander, and oregano, which can provide some health benefits and enhance the overall flavor profile.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for a leaner cut of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, to reduce the amount of saturated fat and calories.
- Replace the beef broth with a low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to cut down on the sodium content.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as diced bell peppers, tomatoes, or onions, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Serve the shredded pork with whole-grain tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of refined flour tortillas to boost the fiber intake.
- Use Greek yogurt or avocado as a topping instead of sour cream to add a creamy texture while reducing the saturated fat content.
- Limit the portion size of the pork and balance it with a generous serving of vegetables and whole grains to create a well-rounded meal.
Editor's Thoughts on This Shredded Pork Taco Recipe
This shredded pork taco filling recipe is a delicious and flavorful option for taco night. The combination of spices and slow cooking in beef broth results in tender and juicy pork that is perfect for filling tacos. The use of cumin, coriander, and oregano adds a depth of flavor, while the cayenne pepper provides a subtle kick. The pressure cooking method ensures that the pork is cooked to perfection, making it easy to shred and serve. Overall, this recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their taco game with a mouthwatering shredded pork filling.
Enhance Your Shredded Pork Taco Filling Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Shredded Pork Taco Filling Recipe:
This recipe guarantees succulent pork shoulder roast infused with aromatic garlic powder, cumin, coriander, oregano, and a hint of cayenne pepper. The use of a pressure cooker ensures tender, flavorful meat in a fraction of the time. The addition of beef broth, bay leaves, and onion elevates the dish's depth of flavor. Trust in the expertise of this recipe to deliver a mouthwatering taco filling that will undoubtedly impress your taste buds.
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