Slow Oven Roasted Chipotle Pork Shoulder Tacos
A deeply flavorful pork shoulder rubbed with kosher salt and chipotle powder, then slow-roasted until it falls apart with a fork. The low and slow cooking method creates incredibly tender, juicy meat with a smoky kick from the chipotle. Perfect for feeding a crowd at casual gatherings, game day parties, or weekend family dinners. Serve with warm corn tortillas, fresh lime wedges, and cilantro for build-your-own tacos that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
- 3 ½ pounds pork shoulder roast
- 24 corn tortillas
- 2 limes
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, minced
Instructions
- 1
Combine kosher salt and chipotle powder in a small bowl
- 2
Rub the spice mixture into the pork, covering the entire surface
- 3
Place pork in clay roaster or deep roasting pan with lid
- 4
Put covered roaster in oven and set temperature to 275°F
- 5
Cook until pork falls apart when pressed with fork back
- 6
Remove from oven and let rest covered for 15 minutes
- 7
Heat tortillas on medium-hot griddle, turning frequently until warmed and soft
- 8
Wrap tortillas in tea towel and place in basket
- 9
Transfer pork to serving platter and pull into chunks with two forks
- 10
Add lime wedges to platter and place cilantro in small serving bowl
- 11
Serve immediately with tortillas on the side
Tips
Don't preheat the oven if using a clay roaster to prevent cracking from thermal shock.
The pork is done when it shreds easily with minimal pressure from a fork.
Wrap tortillas in damp paper towels and microwave for 30 seconds as a quick alternative to griddle heating.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftover pulled pork for up to 4 days in airtight container
Season pork up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate, or fully cook and reheat gently
Serve warm with tortillas, lime wedges, and cilantro for build-your-own tacos
Common Mistakes
Don't rush the cooking time or pork will be tough instead of tender
Don't skip the resting period or juices will run out when shredding
Substitutions
same slow cooking results
FAQ
Can I use a regular roasting pan instead of clay?
Yes, any heavy pot with tight-fitting lid works. Dutch ovens are excellent alternatives that provide similar slow-cooking results.
How do I know when the pork is fully cooked?
The pork is ready when it shreds easily with minimal pressure from a fork and internal temperature reaches 195-205°F for optimal tenderness.
Can I freeze the leftover pulled pork?
Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat gently with a splash of broth if needed.