Delicious and Easy-to-Make Pork Taquitos Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of boneless pork shoulder
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeno, finely chopped
  • 1 cup of chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
  • Sour cream for serving
  • Salsa for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the pork and brown on all sides.
  3. Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeno to the pot and cook until the onion has softened.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the ground cumin and chili powder. Stir well to combine.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 2 hours or until the pork is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
  6. Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
  7. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  8. Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds to make them more pliable.
  9. Place some of the shredded pork and a little bit of the cheese on each tortilla. Roll the tortillas tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
  10. Heat a large skillet with enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom. When the oil is hot, add the taquitos and cook until golden brown on all sides.
  11. Place the cooked taquitos on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 10 minutes to ensure the cheese is fully melted.
  12. Remove the toothpicks and serve the taquitos hot with sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro leaves for garnish.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - For cooking the pork shoulder and other ingredients.
  • Skillet - To fry the taquitos until golden brown.
  • Baking sheet - To bake the taquitos in the oven and ensure the cheese is fully melted.
  • Two forks - For shredding the cooked pork shoulder.
  • Toothpicks - To secure the rolled taquitos before frying.
  • Microwave - To warm the corn tortillas and make them more pliable.
  • Oven - To preheat and bake the taquitos.

Recipe variations

  • Substitute the pork with chicken or beef for a different protein option.
  • Use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for a softer texture.
  • Add diced bell peppers or other vegetables to the filling for added flavor and texture.
  • Experiment with different spices or seasonings to customize the flavor profile, such as paprika, oregano, or chipotle powder.
  • Try baking the taquitos instead of frying them for a healthier alternative.
  • Add a layer of refried beans or guacamole to the tortillas before adding the filling for extra creaminess.
  • Include a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or queso fresco, in the filling for a cheesy twist.
  • Make a vegetarian version by replacing the meat with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
  • Serve the taquitos with different dipping sauces, like avocado salsa, queso dip, or chipotle mayo.
  • Add a squeeze of lime juice or sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.

Recipe overview

Welcome to this delectable recipe for Pork Taquitos! These mouth-watering rolled tortillas are filled with tender, flavorful shredded pork and melty Monterey Jack cheese, then fried to golden perfection. The pork is slow-cooked to ensure it's fall-apart tender and is flavored with a blend of spices including cumin and chili powder for that authentic Mexican flavor. This recipe involves some steps, but the result is well worth it. From browning the pork to simmering it until it's perfectly tender, then rolling and frying the taquitos, each step adds to the overall flavor and texture of the final product. To finish, the taquitos are baked in the oven for a few minutes to ensure that the cheese is fully melted. Serve them hot with a side of sour cream and salsa, and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. This is a delicious treat that's sure to be a hit at any gathering. Follow the detailed steps below to make your very own Pork Taquitos. Enjoy the process and, of course, the tasty outcome!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different cut of pork? - Yes, you can use other cuts of pork such as pork loin or pork tenderloin, but keep in mind that they may have a slightly different texture and cook time.
  2. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas? - While corn tortillas are traditionally used for taquitos, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. Just note that the texture and flavor will be different.
  3. Can I make the taquitos ahead of time? - Yes, you can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to fry. This can be convenient for parties or gatherings.
  4. Can I freeze the taquitos? - Absolutely! Once cooked and cooled, you can freeze the taquitos in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven until heated through.
  5. Can I bake the taquitos instead of frying them? - Yes, you can bake the taquitos instead of frying them for a healthier alternative. Simply place them on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) until golden and crispy.
  6. Can I use a different type of cheese? - Yes, feel free to use your preferred cheese or a combination of cheeses. Cheddar, pepper jack, or queso fresco are all great options.
  7. Can I make these taquitos vegetarian? - Absolutely! Simply omit the pork and increase the amount of vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or even add some cooked black beans for protein.
  8. Can I add additional spices or seasonings? - Yes, you can adjust the seasoning to your taste. Feel free to add some paprika, oregano, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking sheet - Used to bake the taquitos in the oven.
  • Large pot - Used to cook the pork shoulder and other ingredients.
  • Large skillet - Used to fry the taquitos.
  • Two forks - Used to shred the cooked pork shoulder.
  • Toothpicks - Used to secure the rolled taquitos.
  • Microwave - Used to warm up the corn tortillas.

Origin stories

Taquitos, also known as flautas, have a long history in Mexican cuisine. The word 'taquito' in Spanish means "little taco" and 'flauta' translates to "flute," both names describing the dish's rolled-up, cylindrical shape. While the exact origins are uncertain, these delightful dishes are a popular street food throughout Mexico. However, the two names can indicate slight regional variations; taquitos are typically made with corn tortillas, and flautas with flour ones. Furthermore, it's said that flautas originated in Sinaloa, a state on Mexico's Pacific coast, while taquitos hail from Guadalajara, further inland. Despite the minor debate over nomenclature and origin, one thing remains certain: the crispy exterior, paired with the succulent filling, makes taquitos a beloved delight, from the streets of Mexico to tables around the world.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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