Rustic Carnitas Street Tacos

Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating mouth-watering Pulled Pork Street Tacos! These aren’t just any tacos; they’re a culinary experience, transforming humble pork into incredibly tender, juicy, and flavorful morsels through a slow and deliberate oven-baking process. The result is a versatile pulled pork that forms the perfect base for not only classic street tacos but also delectable burritos, refreshing salads, and gooey quesadillas. Get ready to embark on a journey of rich Mexican-inspired flavors that will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen.

Imagine biting into a perfectly seasoned pulled pork street taco, where every ingredient harmonizes to deliver an explosion of taste. This recipe promises not only a fantastic meal but also the joy of having delicious leftovers that you’ll eagerly anticipate all week long. The bold, authentic Mexican spices combined with the succulent texture of slow-cooked pork will elevate any dish it graces. While our primary focus is oven-baking for superior tenderness, we’ll also touch upon the convenience of using a slow cooker for those busy days.

If you’re a fan of pork and looking to expand your recipe repertoire, be sure to explore some of our other fantastic pork dishes: Pork Belly Tacos for a rich and crispy twist, Sticky Asian Pork Ribs in the Oven for an Eastern-inspired delight, Traditional Carnitas for an even crisper texture, or Dutch Oven Pork Chops for a hearty, comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Pulled Pork Street Taco recipe will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen:

• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The magic truly begins with a thoughtfully selected blend of seasonings and an unexpected secret ingredient: Coca-Cola. This unique combination works wonders, infusing the pork with an unparalleled depth of flavor that is both smoky and subtly sweet, creating a truly delicious and complex dish.
• Remarkable Versatility: While designed for sensational street tacos, the tender pulled pork is incredibly adaptable. Once cooked, it becomes a culinary chameleon, ready to star in a variety of dishes. Transform it into hearty burrito bowls, stuff it into cheesy quesadillas, or even use it to top vibrant salads for a protein-packed meal. The possibilities are endless!
• Exceptional Tenderness: The core of this recipe lies in its “low and slow” cooking method. Baking the pork at a lower temperature for several hours breaks down the tough connective tissues, resulting in meat that is unbelievably tender. It practically melts in your mouth, making every bite a pure delight.
• Irresistibly Juicy: Beyond tenderness, this cooking technique ensures maximum juiciness. The long, gentle braise in a flavorful liquid prevents the pork from drying out, locking in all the natural moisture and juices. You’ll be amazed at how succulent the final product is.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is a meal-prepper’s dream come true. Preparing a large batch of pulled pork means you have a versatile protein ready for healthy and delicious meals throughout the week. Simply portion out the cooked meat, pack your favorite toppings and tortillas separately, and assemble fresh whenever hunger strikes. It’s efficiency meets deliciousness!
• Superior to Takeout: Why order takeout when you can create a healthier, more flavorful version at home? Making your own pulled pork tacos allows you complete control over the quality of ingredients, seasoning levels, and the amount of oil used, ensuring a dish that perfectly caters to your preferences and dietary needs.

Essential Ingredients & Smart Substitutions

Crafting the perfect pulled pork street tacos begins with understanding the key ingredients and how they contribute to the final flavor and texture.

Pulled Pork Ingredients

Taco Ingredients

• Pork Shoulder or Butt: The foundation of our pulled pork. A 4-5 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 7-9 pieces, is ideal. These cuts are rich in connective tissue and fat, which break down during slow cooking to create incredibly tender and juicy meat.
• Kosher Salt: Our recipes are developed using Morton kosher salt, renowned for its crystal size and clean flavor, which makes it perfect for everyday cooking. If you’re using table salt, remember to reduce the quantity as it’s much finer and saltier by volume. We highly recommend adding kosher salt to your pantry if you haven’t already!
• Oil: A neutral oil like vegetable, avocado, or olive oil works wonderfully for searing. For an even more authentic and rich flavor, consider using lard, which adds an incredible depth to the pork.
• Coca-Cola: This might seem unconventional, but it’s a game-changer! Mexican Coca-Cola, made with real cane sugar, offers a more complex and natural sweetness, enhancing the braising liquid. If Mexican Coke isn’t available, regular Coca-Cola will still provide excellent results. The acidity also helps tenderize the pork.
• Citrus Juices: Freshly squeezed orange juice and lime juice are crucial for brightness and tang. The rinds of the orange are also added to the pot, imparting a subtle, aromatic citrus note that beautifully complements the pork.
• Aromatic Vegetables: Diced yellow or white onion and plenty of minced garlic create the foundational flavor base, sautéed to sweetness before the braising liquid is added.
• Spices: A robust blend of cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, and smoked paprika is essential for that signature Mexican flavor. These spices add warmth, earthiness, and a hint of smokiness to the pork.
• Bay Leaves: These herbs contribute a subtle, slightly floral and peppery note that enriches the overall flavor of the braising liquid.

For a comprehensive list of ingredients and precise measurements, please refer to the full recipe card below.

How to Master Pulled Pork Street Tacos

Follow these steps to achieve incredibly tender and flavorful pulled pork, perfect for your street tacos.

Quick Overview

• Preheat your oven to the specified temperature.
• Generously season the pork pieces.
• Heat the oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot.
• Sear the pork in batches until beautifully browned.
• Remove the seared pork from the pot.
• Sauté the diced onions until softened.
• Add minced garlic and sauté briefly.
• Deglaze the pot with citrus juices.
• Pour in the Coca-Cola and bring to a boil.
• Return the pork and its juices to the pot.
• Add orange rinds and bay leaves.
• Cover and slow cook in the oven.
• Remove pork, shred it, and return to the pot to soak in the flavorful juices.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius). In a spacious bowl, combine the pork pieces with a generous coating of salt, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and paprika. Ensure each piece is thoroughly seasoned for maximum flavor.

Step 2: In a 6-quart Dutch oven or a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil (or lard) over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, sear the pork in small batches, about 3 pieces at a time. Brown all sides of the pork evenly, adding more oil as needed to prevent sticking and ensure a beautiful crust. This searing step is crucial for developing deep flavor.

Step 3: Once seared, remove the browned pork from the pot and set it aside. Crucially, do not discard or drain any excess grease or browned bits left in the pot—these are packed with flavor that will enrich your braising liquid. Reduce the heat to medium.

Step 4: Add the diced onions to the pot, utilizing the flavorful leftover grease. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant. This step sweetens the onions, building another layer of flavor.

Step 5: Introduce the minced garlic to the pot and continue to sauté for just 1-2 minutes until aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, deglaze the pot by pouring in the orange and lime juice. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to vigorously scrape up any delicious brown bits (fond) stuck to the bottom of the pot, incorporating them into the liquid.

Step 6: Pour in the Mexican Coca-Cola and bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil. This step helps to intensify the flavors and ensure the braising liquid is hot before the pork returns.

Step 7: Carefully return the seared pork pieces and any accumulated juices from the plate back into the pot. Ensure the pork is mostly submerged in the aromatic braising liquid. This liquid is where all the tenderizing and flavor development will happen during the slow cook.

Step 8: Place the orange rinds and bay leaves directly on top of the pork. These will gently release their aromas and flavors into the dish as it cooks.

Step 9: Cover the Dutch oven tightly with its lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for a remarkable 3 hours. This extended, low-temperature cooking time is essential for achieving that characteristic fall-apart tenderness.

Step 10: After 3 hours, carefully remove the pot from the oven. Transfer the cooked pork pieces to a large cutting board or shallow dish. Using two forks, easily shred the pork. It should be incredibly tender and effortless to pull apart.

Step 11: Once shredded, return the succulent pulled pork back into the pot, ensuring it mixes thoroughly with all the remaining flavorful juices. This step keeps the meat moist and allows it to absorb even more of the delicious braising liquid.

Step 12: Optional Crispy Finish: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, spread the shredded pork onto a large sheet pan in an even layer. Broil it for a few minutes until the edges become deliciously crispy. Watch it closely to prevent burning. Once ready, assemble your tacos with your favorite toppings!

Creative Serving Suggestions

Pulled pork street tacos are incredibly versatile, offering endless possibilities for customization. While the classic garnishes are always a hit, don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and side dishes to elevate your meal.

For a traditional and highly recommended combination, garnish your pulled pork street tacos with a dollop of cooling crema, thinly sliced radishes for a peppery crunch, and a fresh, bright coleslaw. To complete the experience, pair your tacos with a refreshing Mexican Mule. Here are even more fantastic topping and side dish ideas:

• Mexican Pickled Onions: These offer a vibrant burst of tangy flavor and a beautiful pop of color, cutting through the richness of the pork.
• Jalapeño Lime Crema: A creamy, zesty, and subtly spicy sauce that adds an incredible layer of flavor and moisture.
• Mango Pico de Gallo: For a tropical twist, this sweet and savory salsa provides a refreshing counterpoint to the savory pork.
• Easy Mexican Potatoes: A hearty and flavorful side dish that complements the tacos perfectly.
• Fresh Cilantro and Diced White Onion: These classic additions provide freshness, a slight bite, and essential authentic street taco flavor.
• Cotija Cheese: Crumbly, salty cotija cheese adds a wonderful savory element that enhances the overall taste.
• Salsa Verde or Roja: A variety of salsas can dramatically change the flavor profile. Salsa verde offers a bright, tangy kick, while a smoky salsa roja adds depth.
• Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy avocado or chunky guacamole provides healthy fats and a smooth texture that balances the meat.
• Shredded Cabbage or Lettuce: For added crunch and freshness.
• Charred Pineapple Salsa: Grilling pineapple brings out its sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that pairs exceptionally well with pork.

Expert Cooking Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork

Achieving restaurant-quality pulled pork is simpler than you think with these expert tips:

• Return Pork to Juices for Ultimate Flavor: This is a crucial step often overlooked! After shredding the cooked pork, make sure to transfer it back into the pot with all its delicious braising juices. The meat will continue to absorb these flavorful liquids, ensuring every strand is moist, tender, and bursting with taste until it’s served. This also prevents the pork from drying out.
• Utilize the Sauce for Dipping: The braising liquid is a treasure trove of flavor. Don’t let it go to waste! For an extra layer of deliciousness, pour a small amount of the rich pulled pork sauce into individual dipping cups. This allows each person to dip their tacos as they eat, enhancing every bite with the concentrated flavors of the slow-cooked broth.
• Efficient Topping Prep: Maximize your cooking time by preparing your taco toppings during the last 30 minutes of the pork’s cooking time. Chop your cheese, dice your preferred vegetables (onions, cilantro, radishes), and prepare any salsas or cremas. This ensures everything is ready simultaneously, allowing you to assemble and enjoy your pulled pork street tacos immediately once the meat is done.
• Embrace Homemade Tortillas: If you have a little extra time and crave an exceptionally authentic street taco experience, consider making your own corn tortillas. The process is simpler than it sounds and yields a remarkably fresh and flavorful result. You’ll only need corn masa flour, warm water, and a pinch of salt. After mixing, roll small balls, press them flat (a tortilla press is ideal but not essential), and cook them on a hot pan or griddle until pliable with golden-brown spots. The difference is truly astounding!

Exciting Additions & Variations

While this pulled pork recipe is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to experiment with these additions and variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences:

• Swap in Chicken for a Leaner Option: If you prefer white meat or are looking for a leaner alternative, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can be used instead of pork. Simply follow the pulled pork street tacos recipe step-by-step, adjusting the cooking time slightly as chicken typically cooks faster than pork. Ensure the chicken is shreddable before removing it from the oven.
• Boost Nutrition with Added Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and texture of your pork taco recipe by incorporating heartier vegetables. Towards the end of the cooking process (about 30-45 minutes before the pork is done), toss in chopped bell peppers (any color), zucchini, or even corn kernels directly into the pot. They’ll soften and absorb the delicious braising liquid, adding color, nutrients, and a fresh dimension to your dish.
• Slow Cooker for Ultimate Convenience: For those days when oven space is limited or you prefer a hands-off approach, these spicy shredded pork tacos can be made in a slow cooker. After searing the pork and sautéing the aromatics (Steps 1-6), transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for approximately eight hours, or on high for four hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender. Then, proceed with the final shredding and saucing steps (Steps 10-11) as outlined in the main recipe.
• Smoked Paprika for Deeper Smokiness: If you love a rich, smoky flavor, consider increasing the amount of smoked paprika in the seasoning blend, or add a pinch of chipotle powder for a smoky heat.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the onions, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your seasoning blend. A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce at the end can also add a quick and easy layer of spice.

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Pulled Pork Street Tacos

Brianna May

★★★★★

5 from 36 votes

These Pulled Pork Street Tacos are seriously dangerous. They’re baked low and slow in the oven to create uber-tender and juicy pieces of pork. Serve this delicious pork on tacos, burritos, salads, and quesadillas.

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 3 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 3 hours hours 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 10 people

Equipment

• 6 Quart Dutch Oven
• Tongs
• Mixing Bowls

Ingredients

Pulled Pork

• ▢ 4-5 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 7-9 pieces
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon Morton kosher salt*
• ▢ 2 Tablespoons cumin
• ▢ 1 ½ Tablespoons dried oregano
• ▢ 1 ½ Tablespoons chili powder
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
• ▢ 2-3 Tablespoons neutral oil or lard*
• ▢ 1 large yellow or white onion, diced
• ▢ 10-12 cloves garlic, minced
• ▢ 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, plus rinds
• ▢ 3 limes, juiced
• ▢ 1 12-ounce Mexican Coca-Cola*
• ▢ 2 bay leaves

Assembly

• ▢ Chopped cilantro, diced white onion, salsa verde, cotija cheese, limes, corn tortillas

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 300 degrees. In a large bowl, toss the pork with the salt, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and paprika until completely coated.
• In a 6 quart Dutch oven or large heavy bottom pot, heat 2 Tablespoons of the avocado oil (or lard) over medium-high heat. Sear the pork in batches of about 3 pieces on all sides until brown, adding more oil as needed.
• Remove from pot. Do not drain any excess grease. Reduce the heat to medium.
• Add the onions and sauté for 5 minutes.
• Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Deglaze the pot with the orange and lime juice, scraping any brown bits off the bottom of the pot.
• Pour in the Coke and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Add the seared pork and any juices from the plate back into the pot so they are submerged in the braising liquid.
• Add the orange rinds and bay leaves on top.
• Cover and bake for 3 hours.
• Remove the pork from the pot and shred it with two forks. It should be extremely tender.
• Transfer the shredded pork back into the pot with all of its juices.
• Optional: Spread shredded pork onto a large sheet pan in an even layer and broil until crispy. Assemble tacos.

Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment below!

Notes

• Kosher Salt: All of my recipes are tested with Morton kosher salt unless noted otherwise. It is the best salt for everyday cooking because of its size and flavor. If using table salt, the amount should be reduced. I highly recommend picking up some kosher next time you are at the store!
• Oil: You can use vegetable, avocado, or olive oil. Lard can also be used for this pulled pork street tacos recipe.
• Coca-Cola: Many grocery stores in Dallas sell bottles of Coca-Cola made in Mexico. They are made with real cane sugar giving the soda a better flavor. If you can’t find this, regular Coke works as well.
• Add pork back into the juices. Since most of the flavor is in the pulled pork taco sauce, you’ll want to keep the meat in the juices after it’s cooked. This step will also help keep the meat juicy until you serve it on tortillas.
• Use the sauce for dipping. You can create more flavorful tacos by pouring a small amount of juice into dipping cups. Then, each person can dip their tacos in the sauce as they please.
• Prep the toppings while the meat cooks. In the last 30 minutes of cook time, prep the cheese, veggies, and other toppings so they’re ready to go. That way, when your pulled pork with taco seasoning is done, you can start eating immediately.
• Serve with homemade tortillas. Try making homemade tortillas if you have extra time and want a more authentic pulled pork street tacos recipe. You’ll need corn flour, warm water, and salt. After mixing the ingredients, you’ll roll them into balls, flatten them, and toss them on a pan or griddle until cooked.

Nutrition

Calories: 293kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 42g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 109mg | Sodium: 820mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.