Your favorite slow-cooked dish just got a vibrant, spicy makeover! This crockpot Mexican pulled pork is a delightful twist on traditional pulled pork, packed with bold flavors and a hint of zest that will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to impress.
If you’ve been on the internet lately, you might have noticed the rising popularity of Mexican-inspired dishes, and for good reason. They’re not just delicious; they bring an exciting flair to your dining table. Imagine tender, juicy pork that falls apart at the slightest touch, enveloped in a rich and flavorful sauce filled with garlic, cumin, and smoky chipotle peppers. This dish embodies comfort food at its finest and is perfect for any occasion. pulled pork recipe Crockpot Turkey Chili
Table of Contents
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering crockpot Mexican pulled pork, you’ll need a select array of ingredients that work together to bring out the flavors. Here’s what you’ll need: chipotle peppers
- 3-4 pounds of pork shoulder (or pork butt) – this cut is ideal for slow cooking, becoming incredibly tender and flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil – for browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – adds a sweet base flavor.
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced – enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons of chili powder – for that signature Mexican flavor.
- 1 tablespoon of cumin – adds earthy notes to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika – brings a subtle smokiness.
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped – infuses heat and richness.
- 1 cup of chicken broth or stock – helps to keep the pork moist during cooking.
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice – adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the pork.
Instructions
Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious crockpot Mexican pulled pork. It’s simple and allows the slow cooker to do most of the work!
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned. This step adds depth of flavor.
- Transfer the pork to the crockpot. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and chopped chipotle peppers, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, then pour the mixture over the pork in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for about 4-5 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks, mixing it with the juices in the crockpot. Stir in the lime juice to brighten the flavors.
What else can I add to this crockpot Mexican pulled pork?
You can absolutely play around with the ingredients while keeping the Mexican vibe. Here are a few variations to consider: Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup
- Add a can of diced tomatoes for extra moisture and flavor.
- Incorporate bell peppers for added sweetness and texture.
- Mix in some black beans or pinto beans for a heartier dish.
- Use different spices like oregano or coriander for a unique twist.
- Try adding a splash of orange juice for a hint of sweetness.
What can I serve with crockpot Mexican pulled pork?
This crockpot Mexican pulled pork is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve it on warm corn tortillas for delicious tacos.
- Top it with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for added flavor.
- Accompany it with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
- Use it as a filling for enchiladas or burritos.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad or slaw to balance the richness of the pork.
Tips & Tricks
For the best results, consider the following tips: slow cooker tips
- Let the pork shoulder come to room temperature before searing to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t skip the browning step; it adds essential flavor to the final dish.
- Feel free to adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers.
- For meal prep, this pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use pork loin, but it may not be as tender as pork shoulder. Consider cooking it for a shorter time to avoid dryness.
Q: What can I do with leftovers?
A: Leftover pulled pork is great for tacos, burritos, or even on top of nachos. You can also use it in soups or casseroles.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you ensure that the chicken broth and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the meat, then cook on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes, followed by a natural release.
Q: How do I store this crockpot Mexican pulled pork?
A: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
This crockpot Mexican pulled pork recipe is a delightful addition to your meal rotation, offering incredible flavors and ease of preparation. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that slow cooker, and enjoy a taste of Mexico right at home!
Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork
A vibrant and spicy twist on traditional pulled pork, this crockpot Mexican pulled pork is packed with bold flavors including chipotle peppers, garlic, cumin, and smoky paprika. Tender, juicy pork slow-cooked to perfection, creating a dish that embodies comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
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3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons chili powder
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1 tablespoon cumin
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
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1 cup chicken broth or stock
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon lime juice
Directions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until browned.
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Transfer the pork to the crockpot. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent.
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Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and chopped chipotle peppers to the skillet, cook for a minute until fragrant.
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Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits, then pour the mixture over the pork in the crockpot.
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Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender. Shred the pork using two forks, mix with juices, and stir in lime juice.
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Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot. Enjoy the flavorful Mexican pulled pork!
