How to Make Delicious Mexican Pulled Pork
If you're a fan of barbecue and looking for a savory twist on classic pulled pork, this Mexican-inspired version is a game-changer. Instead of the traditional sweet profile, this recipe focuses on bold flavors with hot sauce, fajita seasoning, and a rich braising process. Perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or just enjoying on its own, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Pork Butt
10 lb bone-in pork butt (Prairie Fresh recommended)
Hot sauce (Cholula or your preferred brand)
Fajita seasoning (salt, pepper, onion, garlic, citrus blend)
Butter (salted, sliced)
½ cup chicken stock
Additional Ingredients
Fresh flour tortillas
Red or white onion (diced)
Cilantro (chopped)
Cotija cheese
Lime wedges
Creamy hot sauce (lime jalapeño recommended)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Pork
1. Place the pork butt on a cutting board and trim off any excess fat or hanging pieces.
2. Coat the pork with a generous amount of hot sauce, using it as a binder.
3. Season heavily with fajita seasoning, ensuring all sides are well covered.
4. Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the seasoning to adhere.
Step 2: Cooking the Pork
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 250°F (121°C). A pellet smoker with a blend of oak and hickory works great, but you can use any smoker or grill you prefer.
2. Place the seasoned pork butt in the smoker and let it cook undisturbed for about 7-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 170-175°F (77-79°C).
Step 3: Wrapping and Braising
1. Transfer the pork to a deep aluminum pan.
2. Add another layer of hot sauce and a bit more seasoning.
3. Place sliced butter over the top and pour the chicken stock into the pan.
4. Cover tightly with foil and return to the smoker.
5. Continue cooking for about 2.5 more hours, or until the pork reaches 200-206°F (93-96°C) and is probe-tender.
Step 4: Resting and Pulling
1. Remove the pork from the smoker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain excess liquid into a fat separator to remove excess fat while preserving the flavorful juices.
3. Shred the pork, mixing in some of the separated juices for extra moisture.
4. Add more fajita seasoning if desired for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serving the Mexican Pulled Pork
1. Warm fresh flour tortillas.
2. Assemble tacos with pulled pork, diced onions, cilantro, Cotija cheese, and a drizzle of creamy hot sauce.
3. Finish with a squeeze of lime and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
This Mexican-style pulled pork is a refreshing change from traditional barbecue flavors. The combination of savory seasoning, hot sauce, and braised tenderness makes it an excellent dish for tacos, sandwiches, or meal prep. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering, this recipe is bound to be a hit.
For more delicious recipes, be sure to check out our collection of BBQ and smoked meat dishes. Happy cooking!
