Spicy Carne Adovada Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
Indulge in the rich flavors of these Spicy Carne Adovada Tacos, a delightful fusion of tender, marinated pork and vibrant toppings. This recipe relies on a mix of traditional spices, slow-cooked to perfection, and served in soft, warming tortillas. Each taco is layered with seasoned meat, fresh diced onions, and garnished with a bright cilantro-lime slaw. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, these tacos are a celebration of bold flavors and textures that will leave everyone craving more.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Cumin
2 tablespoons (None)
California Chili Powder
2 tablespoons (None)
New Mexican Chili Powder
2 tablespoons (None)
Cayenne Pepper
1 tablespoon (None)
Kosher Salt
1 tablespoon (plus more to taste)
Freshly Ground Black Pepper
1 teaspoon (None)
Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon (None)
Pork Butt
3 lbs (Trimmed and sliced into 1/4 inch thick pieces)
Vegetable Oil
2 cups (None)
Whole Cloves
5 (None)
Bay Leaves
2 (None)
White Corn Tortillas (6 inch)
20 (Heated)
Diced Onion
to taste (For serving)
Chopped Cilantro
to taste (For serving)
Lime Wedges
to taste (For serving)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Carne Adovada Tacos?
Spicy Carne Adovada Tacos are a flavorful fusion dish featuring tender, marinated pork slow-cooked with traditional spices and served in soft tortillas with vibrant toppings.
What kind of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 lbs of pork butt, trimmed and sliced into 1/4 inch thick pieces.
Which chili powders are needed for the marinade?
You will need 2 tablespoons each of California chili powder and New Mexican chili powder.
How much cumin should I use?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of ground cumin.
What gives these tacos their spicy kick?
The heat comes from a combination of California chili powder, New Mexican chili powder, and 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper.
How should the pork be prepared before cooking?
The pork butt should be trimmed and sliced into thin pieces approximately 1/4 inch thick.
What type of tortillas are recommended?
The recipe specifies using twenty 6-inch white corn tortillas.
How do I prepare the tortillas for serving?
The tortillas should be heated before assembling the tacos.
What garnishes are included in this recipe?
The tacos are served with diced onion, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime wedges.
Are there any whole spices used in the cooking process?
Yes, the recipe uses 5 whole cloves and 2 bay leaves for flavoring.
What kind of oil is used for cooking the pork?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of vegetable oil.
Is garlic used in the Carne Adovada?
Yes, the marinade includes 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
How much salt and pepper is required?
You will need 1 tablespoon of Kosher salt (plus more to taste) and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
What is the texture of the pork in these tacos?
The pork is slow-cooked until it is tender and rich with the flavors of the marinade.
How many tacos does this recipe yield?
The recipe provides enough ingredients to make approximately 20 tacos.
What is the purpose of the cilantro-lime slaw?
The cilantro-lime slaw provides a bright, fresh contrast to the rich and spicy marinated pork.
Can I substitute the pork butt with another cut?
While pork butt is ideal for its fat content and tenderness, similar cuts like pork shoulder can be used if trimmed similarly.
Are the cloves meant to be eaten?
No, the 5 whole cloves are used to infuse flavor during cooking and should be removed before serving.
How should the onions be prepared for serving?
The onions should be diced to taste to be used as a fresh topping.
Is this recipe suitable for a family dinner?
Yes, it is described as a perfect meal for gatherings or a cozy family dinner due to its bold flavors and textures.
What is the preparation for the lime?
The lime should be cut into wedges and served on the side for squeezing over the tacos.
What is the preparation for the cilantro?
The cilantro should be chopped and used as a garnish for the tacos.
Does this recipe use fresh garlic or garlic powder?
This specific recipe uses 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
How thick should I slice the pork?
The pork should be sliced to a thickness of 1/4 inch.
What type of salt is best for this recipe?
Kosher salt is recommended for this recipe, starting with 1 tablespoon.
Is the pork cooked whole or sliced?
The pork is sliced into 1/4 inch thick pieces before being marinated and cooked.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
The recipe specifies white corn tortillas, but you can use flour tortillas if you prefer a different texture.
Why are bay leaves used in this recipe?
Two bay leaves are included to add a subtle herbal depth to the slow-cooked meat.
How many whole cloves are needed?
The recipe calls for 5 whole cloves.
What makes the Carne Adovada 'spicy'?
The spice profile is created by mixing cayenne pepper with California and New Mexican chili powders.