Pork loin tacos are an easy way to bring bold flavor to your dinner rotation without a lot of fuss. Juicy, tender slices of pork are perfectly seasoned and tucked into warm tortillas for a hearty, satisfying bite. They’re just right when you want something a little different but still deeply comforting.
Ingredients List
– 1 pound pork loin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 8 small corn tortillas
– 1 cup salsa verde
– ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pork Loin
Start by patting the pork loin dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork loin.
Sear the Pork
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork loin and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This helps lock in the flavors and gives a nice crust.
Roast the Pork
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the seared pork loin to a baking dish and drizzle with lime juice. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until an internal thermometer reads 145°F (63°C).
Rest and Slice
Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Slice the pork thinly against the grain.
Assemble Tacos
Warm up your corn tortillas either on a skillet or directly over a gas flame for that perfect char. Place a few slices of pork on each tortilla, top with salsa verde, crumbled cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro.
Ways to Improve It
1. Marinate the pork overnight in lime juice and spices for an even deeper flavor.
2. Grill the tortillas for added smokiness.
3. Add sliced avocado or pickled red onions for extra layers of flavor.
4. Use homemade salsa verde for fresher taste.
5. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Side Dishes to Serve
These tacos pair beautifully with a side of Mexican street corn salad or a simple black bean salad. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve them alongside cheesy refried beans or crispy tortilla chips with guacamole.
Substitutions
1. Use chicken breast or thighs instead of pork loin for a lighter option.
2. Swap cotija cheese with feta cheese if unavailable.
3. Substitute flour tortillas if corn tortillas aren’t your preference.
4. Replace salsa verde with red salsa for a different twist.
Recipe Variations
1. Add pineapple chunks to create Hawaiian-inspired tacos.
2. Incorporate grilled bell peppers and onions for fajita-style tacos.
3. Try adding shredded cabbage or lettuce for crunch.
4. Spice it up with sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicy.
Enjoy these delicious tacos as part of your next taco night! They’re simple yet bursting with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion.
