Tacos(Filling)
Juicy pork filling seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and red pepper, perfect for flavorful tacos loved by meat enthusiasts and taco lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown cubed pork slightly in a skillet.
- Add cumin, chili powder, crushed red pepper, garlic salt, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce to the pork.
- Simmer the mixture for 3 to 4 hours until tender.
- Brown the taco shells in a skillet or oven.
- Fill the taco shells with the pork mixture and top with lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and taco cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, marinate the pork in the spices overnight before cooking. If you're short on time, consider using ground pork or chicken as a quicker alternative. For a smoky flavor, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. Adjust the heat by varying the amount of crushed red pepper. Serve with a side of Maurine Moon'S Mexican Rice for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your tacos with a variety of toppings such as fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and avocado slices for a colorful presentation. Pair with a side of Mexican recipes like El Paso Stew or a refreshing salad to balance the flavors. A cold beverage like limeade or a light beer complements the dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pork mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If desired, you can also microwave it in short intervals, ensuring it heats evenly. Taco shells can be stored separately to maintain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tacos(Filling) contains roughly 916 calories, with 43g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and potassium (100% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 931mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the pork filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork filling a day in advance. Simply let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I use if I don't have tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, or even salsa for a different flavor profile. Adjust the seasonings to taste, as salsa may already contain spices.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the pork with a plant-based protein like lentils or black beans. You can also add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).