Carnitas Street Tacos Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals

Before we dive into the deliciousness of carnitas street tacos, let’s consider what complements this dish. These tacos are rich, flavorful, and slightly crispy, so pairing them with the right sides can elevate your dining experience.

Fresh salsa is a must. Pico de gallo or a zesty tomatillo salsa adds brightness. Similarly, a side of guacamole brings creaminess to the table.

For substance, try serving with a side of Mexican rice or black beans. The combination provides both texture and additional flavor.

Tortilla chips with a fresh avocado dip or a spicy queso can keep the appetizer mood alive.

Pair these tacos with a refreshing drink. A light Mexican beer or a homemade agua fresca with fruit is excellent.

Now that we've whetted the appetite, let’s dig into the main attraction!

What Are Carnitas Street Tacos?

Carnitas street tacos are small tortillas filled with tender, slow-cooked pork. The pork is typically seasoned with a combination of spices and citrus juices, which help keep it juicy and flavorful. This dish is deeply rooted in Mexican culture and embodies comfort food perfectly. It's served on soft or crispy corn tortillas, topped with fresh ingredients for that extra zing.

The Origins: The word "carnitas" means "little meats" in Spanish. The cooking method involves simmering the pork in its fat until fork-tender, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Traditionally, it hails from the state of Michoacán in Mexico, where family recipes pass down through generations.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Carnitas Street Tacos?

Some people think tacos are all the same, but let me tell you, they aren’t! What sets my carnitas street tacos apart?

• Fresh Ingredients: I use freshly squeezed orange juice and lime juice for that perfect citrus punch. They brighten the flavor and enhance the taste of the pork.
• A Unique Pork Rub: My blend features spices like smoked paprika, toasted cumin, and ground coriander—ingredients that add depth and complexity rather than relying on commercial taco seasoning.
• Cooking Technique: While some choose to cook their pork quickly, I opt for a slow and steamy approach. This method transforms the meat into something extraordinary, producing tender, juicy bites.
• Variety in Toppings: Instead of the usual cilantro and onions, I serve mine with spicy red taqueria salsa and pickled jalapeños. These toppings give each taco a unique flair.

How Does It Taste?

Let’s address the flavor profile! When you take a bite of carnitas street taco, the first thing that hits you is the richness of the pork. It’s savory from the slow cooking. You’ll taste the sweetness from the orange juice, tanginess from the lime, and a subtle spiciness from the seasoning. 

The fresh toppings provide a crunch that beautifully offsets the softness of the pork. It’s like a party in your mouth—a fiesta of flavors!

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Here’s what you’ll need to create your carnitas street tacos:

Meat Preparation:

• 6 lbs. Pork Shoulder or Boston Butt: Trim off excess fat for the best texture.
• Juice from 2 Sweet Oranges
• Juice from 2 Juicy Limes
• ½ teaspoon Sea Salt per pound of meat
• 1 Yellow Onion, quartered
• 6-8 Cloves of Fresh Garlic, peeled and slightly crushed
• 3 Bay Leaves
• 1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional)

Pork Rub:

• 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
• 1 Tablespoon Ancho Chili Powder
• 2 teaspoons Mexican Oregano
• 1 Tablespoon Cumin Seeds, toasted and ground
• ½ Tablespoon Coriander Seeds, toasted and ground
• ½ Tablespoon Black Peppercorns, toasted and ground

Taco Assembly:

• Carnitas Meat, shredded
• 16 Tortillas of your choice
• Lime Wedges for garnish
• Fresh Cilantro, chopped
• 1 Red Onion, finely minced
• Spicy Red Taqueria Salsa
• Mexican Crema
• Pickled Jalapeños or Radishes

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Start by cutting the pork into large chunks. Dry brine with sea salt, allowing the flavor to penetrate. This enhances its natural taste.

Step 2: Make the Pork Rub

In a bowl, combine brown sugar, ancho chili powder, oregano, toasted cumin, toasted coriander, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the cubed pork, ensuring each piece is fully coated.

Step 3: Blend the Liquids

In a large pot, combine chicken stock, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, onion, and bay leaves. Bring this to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Cook Your Pork

Submerge the seasoned pork into the liquid. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 4 to 6 hours. You want it to be fork-tender. Check it occasionally, adding more stock if too much evaporates.

Step 5: Shred the Pork

Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Shred the pork using two forks. It should fall apart easily.

Step 6: Crisp Up the Meat (Optional)

If you enjoy a crispy texture, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn't burn!

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

Warm up your tortillas. Scoop some of the shredded carnitas onto each tortilla. Add toppings like cilantro, red onion, and a sprinkle of lime juice. Don’t forget a dollop of spicy salsa!

Tips & Tricks on Making Carnitas Street Tacos

Here are five nuggets of wisdom for crafting the perfect tacos:

• Use Quality Meat: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality pork. The more marbled the meat, the more tender it becomes.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust spices in the rub. Add more chili powder for heat or additional herbs for complexity.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Slow cooking is key. Rushing this step can lead to tough meat. Give it time!
• Make Ahead: These tacos can be made in advance. The flavors intensify as they sit.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh toppings elevate the dish. Use a mix of flavors and textures for a personalized touch.

Nutrition Information

A typical carnitas street taco, without excessive toppings, contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g

These values will vary based on serving size and tortilla choice. For a healthier option, consider using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.

How Do I Store This Dish?

Leftover carnitas can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, try freezing them. 

Place the shredded meat in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just reheat and enjoy!

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Carnitas Street Tacos?

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are five substitutes to consider:

• Chicken: Replace pork with chicken thighs for a lighter option. It cooks faster!
• Beef: For a different flavor, use brisket. It requires a slightly longer cooking time but is equally delicious.
• Jackfruit: Opt for shredded jackfruit for a vegetarian take. Simmer it in the same spices for flavor.
• Tofu: Firm tofu can be marinated and grilled as a meat replacement. It soaks up flavors beautifully.
• Mushrooms: Use hearty mushrooms like portobello. They provide a rich, umami flavor when sautéed.

Conclusion

Crafting carnitas street tacos is far from a mundane task. It’s a flavorful adventure that brings the spirit of Mexican street food right to your kitchen. From the juicy pork that bathes in citrus goodness to the vibrant toppings that pack a punch, these tacos are sure to please.

So, next time you're looking for a crowd-pleaser or simply a meal that comforts the soul, remember this recipe. It’s about savoring each bite and sharing laughter over delicious food. Now grab a tortilla, fill it with that tender goodness, and enjoy the culinary fiesta you’ve just created! Happy taco-making!

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