Carnitas tacos are delicious and flavorful tacos made with tender, spicy homemade Carnitas- Mexican shredded pork, and fresh homemade Corn Tortillas.
I came to love fresh carnitas tacos from the delicious authentic taquerias in Tucson Arizona. The freshest, most authentic version I had ever tasted. At that time, I was young and had not traveled much outside of Wisconsin. These tacos are so much like my favorite Mexican restaurants in Tucson- taking me back to the beauty of the desert, the culture of the city, and the great memories with friends.
Everything about these tacos is homemade and fresh. The salsa is a delightful and easy to prepare combination of red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
Why use cilantro in carnitas tacos?
Cilantro is an herb that is widely used around the world and is a staple of many Mexican recipes. Cilantro leaves are grown from coriander seeds. It adds a fresh citrus flavor to an already amazing carnitas taco.
Cilantro also has some impressive health benefits. It contains many antioxidants that are beneficial for brain health, urinary health, and digestive health. One study in particular found that cilantro has the ability to protect the body from water and food borne illnesses! 12 Proven Health Benefits of Cilantro – Healthy Focus
Preparation, servings and storage
Carnitas tacos are quick to prepare with fresh tortillas and prepared carnitas. With these prepared ahead of time, it takes less than 10 minutes to put together a table full of tacos for the whole family. This recipe makes 12 delicious tacos.
Tortillas can be made in advance and will stay fresh for 3 days at room temperature, as well as 1 week in the refrigerator, and 3 months in the freezer. Carnitas can also be prepared ahead of time; they will remain fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 days and in the freezer for 3 months.
Want to try a fresh shrimp taco like the ones in Baja California? Try Shrimp Tacos
Carnitas Tacos
Equipment
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 12 Fresh corn tortillas
- 1 lb Carnitas (Mexican shredded pork)
- 1/2 cup Red onion, diced
- 1 Jalapeño, diced
- 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup Freshly shredded Oaxaco or Monterey jack cheese
Instructions
- Prepare tortillas and pork as instructed.
- To prepare the salsa, combine the onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a small bowl.
- Assemble the tacos by layering the pork in the bottom of the tortilla, topped with cheese and salsa.
- Serve 2-3 tacos each.
Nutrition
