Are you ready to take Taco Tuesday to a whole new level? These BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos, featuring tender, slow-cooked pork smothered in a rich pulled pork BBQ sauce. Perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these tacos are sure to impress.
Using a crockpot for this recipe makes it incredibly easy to whip up a batch of mouth-watering pulled pork. Just set it and forget it! The juicy pork shreds effortlessly and allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a savory filling that pairs perfectly with fresh toppings like slaw or pico de gallo.
Whether you’re a fan of pulled pork BBQ sandwiches or craving something a little more adventurous, these tacos capture the essence of both. They offer the heartiness of a pulled pork dinner while being light enough to enjoy a few without feeling overwhelmed.
Understanding BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos
BBQ pulled pork tacos represent a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that appeal to many. The combination of tender shredded pork, flavorful sauces, and fresh toppings creates a dish that is both satisfying and invigorating.
This dish takes inspiration from traditional pulled pork BBQ sandwiches, but it presents the meat in a vibrant taco form. The use of a crockpot simplifies the cooking process, allowing for juicy, easy pulled pork that pairs perfectly with various toppings.
The Flavor Profile
At the heart of these tacos lies the pulled pork, bathed in a rich pulled pork BBQ sauce that offers a sweet and smoky note. The seasoning of smoked paprika and cumin adds depth to the meat, enhancing the overall experience.
When combined with a crunchy slaw, the tacos embody a delightful balance of tenderness and crunch. This contrast is what makes pulled pork tacos with slaw an irresistible choice for taco lovers and barbecue enthusiasts alike.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
To create exceptional BBQ pulled pork tacos, selecting quality ingredients is essential. The foundation is a pork shoulder or pork butt, known for its marbling and ability to become tender during slow cooking.
Additionally, the choice of BBQ sauce plays a crucial role in flavor development. Opting for a sauce with a balance of sweetness and tang will complement the richness of the pork beautifully. Fresh cilantro and lime wedges serve as garnishes that add freshness and acidity, enhancing each bite.
Cooking Techniques
The crockpot method stands out as the ideal technique for preparing pulled pork, making it accessible for any home cook. Simply season the pork, add the ingredients, and allow the slow cooker to work its magic over several hours.
This method ensures that the pork becomes incredibly tender, making shredding effortless. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a dish that is rich and savory, perfect for filling soft tortillas.
Assembling Your Tacos
Once the pork is cooked and shredded, the assembly of the tacos becomes an enjoyable part of the process. Start with warm tortillas, which provide a soft and pliable base for the fillings.
Layer generous amounts of pulled pork on each tortilla, and top it with the crunchy coleslaw for texture. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor, while lime wedges on the side allow for a zesty finish.
Serving Suggestions
BBQ pulled pork tacos are versatile and can be served in various settings, from casual weeknight dinners to lively gatherings with friends. They lend themselves well to a taco bar setup, where guests can customize their tacos with additional toppings like salsa, avocado, or jalapeños.
This dish is a fantastic option for any occasion, offering a hearty yet approachable meal that invites everyone to dig in and enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a comforting dinner, BBQ pulled pork tacos are sure to be a hit.
Delicious BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos
These pulled pork tacos are filled with flavorful, tender pork that’s been slow-cooked to perfection. The combination of sweet and smoky BBQ sauce gives the meat a rich taste that will leave your taste buds dancing. Topped with a refreshing slaw, these tacos deliver a fantastic balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 2-3 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 cup BBQ sauce of your choice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and season it with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin.
- Slow Cook: Place the seasoned pork in a crockpot along with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and BBQ sauce. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours until tender.
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the crockpot to soak up more sauce.
- Warm the Tortillas: In a skillet, warm the tortillas over medium heat until they are pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: Spoon the BBQ pulled pork onto each tortilla, top with coleslaw mix, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Enjoy your BBQ pulled pork tacos with lime wedges on the side for added zest.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 tacos
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
