Ingredients

4 lbs boneless pork butt , cubed
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup water
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 bay leaves
3 garlic cloves , minced
1 jalapeno , minced
1 onion , peeled and halved
1 lime , juice of
1/2 medium orange , juice and zest of
8 small corn or 8 small flour tortillas
1 small red onion , thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
sour cream or avocado , if desired
1 cup monterey jack cheese
2 limes , cut into wedges
Mel's Cuban Street Tacos are a staple of Cuban cuisine, originating from the street vendors of Havana. They are now enjoyed throughout the world, with various twists and adaptations. The pork used in the recipe is cooked low and slow, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meat. Garlic, chili powder, oregano, cumin, and bay leaves give the taco a warm and slightly spicy flavor, while the orange zest and lime juice bring out the natural sweetness of the pork. The tacos are topped with fresh cilantro, thinly sliced red onions, and sour cream or avocado, adding a cool and creamy finish.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 325°F.
2.Season cubed pork with salt.
3.Heat vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
4.Add pork to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
5.Add water, chicken broth, pepper, cumin, chili powder, oregano, bay leaves, minced garlic, minced jalapeno, and onion halves to the pot.
6.Cover and simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until pork is tender and easily shredded.
7.Remove pork from the pot and shred using two forks.
8.Strain the liquid from the pot, discarding any solids, and return the shredded pork to the pot.
9.Add lime juice, orange juice, and orange zest to the pot and mix well.
10.Cook the tortillas according to package instructions.
11.Assemble tacos with shredded pork, sliced red onion, fresh cilantro, sour cream or avocado, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
12.Serve with lime wedges.
13.

PROS

Mel’s Cuban Street Tacos are the epitome of street food, bursting with flavor and a staple of Cuban cuisine.
The juicy and tender pork pairs well with fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and sharp cheese.
Perfect for a fun and casual meal with friends or family.

CONS

While a delicious and flavorful recipe, the prep and cook time for these tacos can be lengthy, making it difficult for those lacking in time to make this meal.
The tacos are also high in fat.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Pork is a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals such as iron and zinc. It is also a good source of thiamine and vitamin B12, which are important for maintaining the body’s energy levels. Cilantro is known to be a good source of antioxidants, while lime juice can help boost the immune system and also improve digestion.

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