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Mexican Street Corn Carnitas Tacos

Delicious Mexican Street Corn Carnitas Tacos for Any Night

Enjoy flavorful Mexican Street Corn Carnitas Tacos, combining tender pork with zesty corn salsa for a delicious meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 9 hours
Servings: 8 tacos
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Carnitas
  • 2.5 lb Pork Tenderloin Substitute with pork loin or boneless pork shoulder for higher fat content.
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice Use 100% pure bottled juice if unavailable.
  • 1 Tbsp Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice Bottled lime juice is a convenient alternative.
  • various Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Salt, Oregano, Black Pepper, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder) Adjust spices to personal heat preference.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Chopped Cilantro Substitute with parsley if cilantro isn’t available.
For the Corn Salsa
  • 2 cups Cooked Corn Fresh, canned, or frozen corn can be used; thaw and drain if frozen.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 2 Tbsp Light Mayo Substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
  • 3 Green Onions Bring mild onion flavor and crunch; red onions can be used for sharper taste.
For Assembly
  • 8 pieces Flour Tortillas Corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option.
  • 4 Tbsp Cotija Cheese Feta can be used if Cotija is unavailable.
  • Mexican Crema (optional) Sour cream mixed with taco sauce serves as a substitute.

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Place the pork tenderloin into a Crockpot and pour in the fresh squeezed orange juice, lime juice, and your chosen spices. Toss together to ensure the pork is well-coated. Set the Crockpot on low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork shreds easily with a fork.
  2. After the cooking time is complete, check that the pork is tender and can be easily shredded. Remove the pork from the Crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the Crockpot to simmer in its juices for an additional 30 minutes.
  3. For a delicious crispy texture, preheat your broiler to low. Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for about 5 minutes until the edges start to brown. Return the crispy pork back to the Crockpot and stir in the freshly chopped cilantro.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked corn, minced garlic, light mayo, lime juice, salt, chili powder, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions. Mix thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
  5. Warm the tortillas on a skillet or over a gas flame until pliable. Assemble by adding shredded pork followed by corn salsa. Top with Cotija cheese and drizzle with Mexican crema if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow the pork to rest for a few minutes after cooking for improved texture. Store leftovers separately for optimal freshness.

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