Spicy Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

If you’re looking to spice up your taco night, look no further than these delectable Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa. Combining tender, slow-cooked pulled pork with a zesty and refreshing pineapple salsa, this dish offers a delightful fusion of flavors that’s sure to please any crowd. These tacos are not only bursting with taste but also relatively easy to prepare, making them perfect for both casual dinners and festive gatherings.

Ingredients (serving 4 people)

• For the Pulled Pork:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) pork shoulder or butt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• For the Pineapple Salsa:

  • 1 cup (150g) fresh pineapple, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste

• For the Tacos:

• 8 small corn tortillas

• 

  Lime wedges for serving

Cooking Method

Pulled Pork:

1. Prepare the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 4 minutes per side.
3. Slow Cook: Transfer the pork to a slow cooker. Add chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender and pulls apart easily with a fork.
4. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker to absorb the juices.

Pineapple Salsa:
5. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Add lime juice and a pinch of salt. Mix well and adjust seasoning as needed.

Assemble the Tacos:
6. Warm the Tortillas: Briefly warm the corn tortillas on a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat until pliable.
7. Fill the Tacos: Place a generous amount of pulled pork onto each tortilla and top with a spoonful of pineapple salsa.
8. Serve: Garnish with lime wedges and serve immediately.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa are not only a treat for your taste buds but also provide a good balance of nutrients. Pork is a great source of protein and essential vitamins like B6 and B12. The pineapple adds a dose of vitamin C and fiber, while the spices contribute antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

To complement this dish, consider pairing it with a light and crisp side salad, such as a simple green salad with avocado and cucumber. For drinks, a refreshing margarita, a cold beer, or a mocktail with citrus or pineapple flavors would perfectly match the vibrant flavors of the tacos.

These tacos are sure to become a favorite, whether you’re dining solo or entertaining family and friends. Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes in every bite!