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Leftover Roast Pork Tacos

Leftover Roast Pork Tacos

The essence of this Leftover Roast Pork Tacos recipe lies in its simplicity and clever use of leftovers. We're taking that beautifully cooked roast pork, likely slow-roasted or braised until fall-apart tender, and giving it new life in these tacos. Rather than letting the leftovers go to waste, we can transform them into a fast and easy weeknight meal.
To add big flavor, we're infusing the pork with a blend of spices – smoky paprika and a lesser-known spice called Mexican oregano. Paprika lends a subtle heat along with a smoky, earthy taste that pairs wonderfully with pork. Mexican oregano is more citrusy and fragrant than Mediterranean oregano, with notes of lime and lemon. Together, these spices permeate the juicy pork, taking it from bland leftovers to flavor-packed taco filling.
The result is fork-tender shreds of pork that have absorbed these warm, aromatic spices. When piled high on a soft corn tortilla and topped with your favorite taco fixings like chopped onion, cilantro, salsa, and lime wedges, you have a satisfying taco that cleverly puts those leftovers to use. The pork is slightly smoky from the paprika, citrusy from the oregano, and so tender it practically falls apart with each bite. Make these tacos on a busy weeknight for a meal that comes together quickly, tastes like you fussed, but keeps weeknight cooking easy.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cup leftover roast pork, shredded or thinly sliced
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Mexican oregano (for that unique twist)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the thinly sliced red onion and sauté until they become soft and slightly caramelized.
  • Stir in the shredded roast pork, Mexican oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the pork is heated through and coated with the spices.
  • Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or until they become pliable.
  • Assemble your tacos by placing a generous portion of the seasoned roast pork onto each tortilla.
  • Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and shredded cheese.
  • Squeeze a wedge of lime over each taco for a zesty kick.

Notes

Cooking Tips for the Best Results:

  1. Use corn tortillas for an authentic taco experience. You can warm them in the oven or on a skillet for that extra touch of flavor.
  2. Don’t skimp on the Mexican oregano – it’s the secret ingredient that elevates the flavor profile of your pork.
  3. If you like a bit of heat, add some finely chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to your tacos.
  4. For a smokier taste, consider grilling your leftover roast pork briefly before shredding it.
  5. Customize your toppings! Tacos are all about personal preferences, so feel free to add salsa, sour cream, or pickled red onions.

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FAQs about the Leftover Roast Pork Tacos Recipe

Can I use a different type of meat if I don’t have roast pork leftovers?

Absolutely! You can make these tacos with leftover roast chicken, beef, or even turkey.

What if I can’t find Mexican oregano?

Mexican oregano has a distinct flavor, but you can substitute it with regular oregano if needed.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can prepare the roast pork filling in advance and assemble the tacos just before serving to keep the tortillas fresh.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?

You can replace the roast pork with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.

What side dishes pair well with these leftover roast pork tacos?

Classic Mexican sides like rice and beans, guacamole, or a corn salad make excellent companions for these tacos.

Read more here for additional info about leftover pork. Also, I recommend other interesting articles related to this topic, including articles on Leftover Roast Pork and Cabbage Slaw, Leftover Roast Pork and Vegetable Noodle Soup, Leftover Roast Pork and Potato Hash, Leftover Roast Pork and Noodle Stir-Fry, Leftover Roast Pork Quesadillas, Leftover Roast Pork and Pineapple Skewers, Leftover Roast Pork and Vegetable Soup, Leftover Roast Pork Fried Rice, and more.


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