Tangy Crockpot Shredded Pork Cooked Slowly
Spice up your game day parties with this mouthwatering Yucatan-inspired pulled pork recipe! It's easy-peasy, just like ordering takeout, but way more delicious and satisfying. The tangy tomatillos balance the earthy achiote spices, while the jalapenos bring on the heat. The pork shoulder's richness ties it all together, creating an unforgettable flavor bomb.
Serve this spicy treat on toasted French or ciabatta rolls, accompanied by pickled red onions, or wrap it in warmed tortillas, topped with queso fresco and chopped cilantro for some serious taco action.
Need to stock up? Grab Achiote Rojo from your local well-stocked Mexican market (we like the El Mexicano brand) or whip up your own Recado Rojo with the help of our guideline below.
Yield: 6 servings + leftoversDifficulty: EasyTotal: 5 hoursActive: 20 minutes
- Ingredients:
- 4.5-5 lb boneless pork shoulder (pork butt), twine or netting removed
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 4 jalapenos, sliced
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 6 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 large yellow onion, coarsely chopped
- 1 (3.5-ounce) package Achiote Rojo, crumbled
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1.5 lbs tomatillos, quartered
- Instructions:
- Pop all the ingredients except the tomatillos into your slow cooker. Spread 'em around evenly.
- Evenly spread the tomatillos on top.
- Cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is melt-in-your-mouth tender. When ready, remove the meat and shred it.
- Keep around half the juices, skim off most of the fat, and set the liquid aside. Return the shredded meat to the pot and mix with the rest of the juices. If it's too dry, add some of the reserved cooking liquid.
- Serve on sandwiches or tacos and savor every bite!
Homemade Recado Rojo (if you're feeling fancy): - 4 oz achiote paste (approx. one package) - 1/2 cup lime juice - (Optional) Additional spices like garlic, cumin, or oregano to taste
Mix it all together, and you're good to go!
Incorporate cumin, jalapenos, tomatillos, and recado in homemade tarts for a unique sweet and spicy dessert pairing. For a tangy counterpoint, consider adding a dollop of queso fresco and fresh cilantro.
For a nutritious twist, consider serving the yucatan-inspired pulled pork on a bed of leafy greens and steamed vegetables, substituting sandwich rolls with whole grain wraps for a healthy alternative.
Freshen up your spice collection by trying out homemade recado rojo, mixing 4 oz of achiote paste, 1/2 cup lime juice, and any additional spices like garlic, cumin, or oregano to taste, creating a versatile ingredient for various recipes.
