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–+ servings
Two pulled pork tacos on separate plates. The tacos are topped with cubed avocado, crumbled cotija cheese and diced red onion. Small bowls with more toppings are beside the tacos.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos

This recipe for Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos stars tender pulled pork that’s piled high in corn tortillas and topped off with pickled onions and crumbled Cotija cheese.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings 10 - 12 servings

Ingredients  

  • 1 (4- to 5-pound) pork shoulder
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoons cocoa powder
  • 4 Tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 12 ounces beer (See Kelly's Notes)
  • 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade salsa
  • Corn Tortillas
  • Taco toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cheese or pickled red onions

Instructions 

  • Rub the pork shoulder on all sides with the minced garlic, massaging it into the meat.
  • Combine the salt, cumin, chili powder, black pepper, oregano, cayenne pepper and cocoa powder in a small bowl then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the meat. Transfer the pork shoulder to the slow cooker then add the lime juice, orange juice, salsa and beer.
  • Cover the slow cooker and cook on "low" for 8 hours, or on "medium" for 6 hours.
  • Remove the pork from the slow cooker (leaving behind any liquid), shred and serve in corn tortillas with assorted toppings.

Notes

  • You can opt for a Spanish-style beer, such as Negra Modelo or Corona, or just use whatever beer you have on hand.
  • While a couple of forks work for shredding pork, you can also place the cooked meat in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on low speed until the pork is shredded.
  • If the pulled pork is looking too dry, add some of the strained cooking juices back in. Start with a little, then incorporate more to your liking.
  • Refrigerate: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
  • Freeze: Pulled pork freezes really well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to place the pulled pork in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Thaw the pulled pork overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it gently on the stovetop, in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
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