Are you planning a party and trying to figure out what food works best? Although tacos are already a crowd-pleaser, making your tacos with pork carnitas puts them on another level.
Pork carnitas and taco shells offer an unbeatable combination to please the pickiest eaters. But how can you make this dish into a complete feast that all of your guests will appreciate?
Keep reading for ideas about what to serve with pork carnitas tacos for an unforgettable meal!
What Are Pork Carnitas Tacos?
Pork carnitas tacos are a Mexican dish prepared with shredded pork.
The pork is typically cooked in lard or oil until it is tender and then seasoned with spices such as cumin, oregano, garlic and onion.
The meat can then be served in tacos with various condiments such as salsa, pico de Gallo, guacamole and cilantro.
The tacos can also be served as a main dish with sides such as rice and beans or as an appetizer.
Pork carnitas tacos are a favorite for taco fans everywhere and are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
What To Serve With Pork Carnitas Tacos?
So, what to serve with pork carnitas tacos? When it comes to serving pork carnitas tacos, the possibilities are endless!
You can serve them in various ways, depending on your preference. Here are some delicious options:
Cilantro Rice
Cilantro Rice is a Mexican dish with white rice and cilantro as its main ingredients.
The cooked rice is flavored with garlic, onion, and other spices, giving it a distinct flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy pork carnitas tacos.
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The combination of flavors enhances the overall taste of both dishes so they can be enjoyed together.
Not only does the cilantro add a unique flavor to the dish, but it also provides an array of health benefits.
Cilantro contains various antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation.
It is also a great source of vitamins A and C, calcium, magnesium, folate, and dietary fiber.
When combined with the lean protein found in pork carnitas, Cilantro Rice is a tasty and nutritious meal that will please any palate.
Refried Beans
Refried beans are a traditional Mexican side dish made from cooked, mashed pinto beans lightly fried in lard or oil.
They are often served alongside tacos, burritos, chile rellenos and tamales.
Pork carnitas tacos pair well with refried beans because the savory and slightly spicy flavor of the beans plays off the rich, porky flavor of the carnitas.
The creamy texture of refried beans contrasts the crunchy shell of a taco and helps bind all the components together.
Refried beans also act as an excellent source of protein, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
They add color and flavor to your plate, making them a great choice for tacos.
Tortillas
Tortillas are a type of flatbread made from wheat or cornmeal.
They have been a staple in Mexican and Latin American cuisine for centuries and serve as the basis for many popular dishes such as tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and quesadillas.
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Tortillas pair exceptionally well with pork carnitas tacos because they provide a sturdy vehicle for the filling, while their neutral flavor allows the pork to take center stage.
The flexibility of the tortilla also makes it easy to wrap up and enjoy your carnitas tacos on the go. Plus, the chewy texture helps add contrast to each bite.
Tortillas are an essential part of any good taco experience and a great companion to pork carnitas tacos.
Tortilla Soup
Tortilla soup is a Mexican-inspired dish with a base of flavorful chicken broth and crunchy vegetables like tomatoes, chiles, onions, garlic and bell peppers.
It’s then garnished with crispy fried tortillas for extra texture.
The soup is often served with pork carnitas tacos to bring out the flavor of the soup and to provide a heartier meal.
The traditional Mexican twist of the pork carnitas tacos adds a depth of flavor that makes this dish an exciting taste experience.
Not only does it offer plenty of zesty flavors, but it’s also an easy-to-prepare, satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Mexico, try serving tortilla soup with pork carnitas tacos.
Pinto Beans
Pinto beans are a type of legume typically used in Mexican cuisine.
They have a mild, earthy flavor and are popularly served with pork carnitas tacos due to their ability to absorb the flavors of their cooked.
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Pinto beans offer a nutrient-rich base for any dish, providing an excellent source of dietary fiber, protein, and vitamins.
Additionally, they are low in fat and naturally gluten-free.
When cooked with pork carnitas tacos, pinto beans provide a hearty base that complements the smoky flavor of the meat perfectly.
Not only do pinto beans offer additional texture to each bite, but they also help to stretch a smaller portion of meat further, making them an excellent choice for a satisfying and budget-friendly meal.
Guacamole
Guacamole is a traditional Mexican dish made from mashed avocados, onions, tomatoes, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice.
It’s an incredibly flavorful dip or spread that adds something extra to tacos.
When paired with pork carnitas tacos, it creates the perfect combination of creamy avocado and savory pork.
Not only does it provide a delicious flavor, but the creamy texture also helps tie all the flavors together.
Guacamole is an essential part of Mexican cuisine, and when served with pork carnitas tacos, it truly elevates the dish to something extraordinary.
Whether you opt for a simple base or something more complex, guacamole can help to make your tacos truly irresistible.
Jalapeno Cornbread
Jalapeno Cornbread is a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with pork carnitas tacos.
The combination of the spicy jalapeno and sweet cornbread creates an explosion of flavors that compliments the savory pork carnitas dish.
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Jalapeno Cornbread also adds a bit of texture to the meal, which helps balance the softness of the tacos.
Additionally, since pork carnitas can have an acidic taste, having a sweeter side dish like cornbread helps to balance it out and create a more complex flavor profile.
Ultimately, Jalapeno Cornbread is the perfect accompaniment for pork carnitas tacos and adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Corn Pudding
Corn Pudding is a Mexican dish made of corn and other ingredients such as cheese, onion, garlic, cream, and spices.
It is often served with pork carnitas tacos because the sweetness of the corn pudding complements the savory flavors of the tacos.
The creamy texture of the pudding also provides a nice contrast to the crunchiness of the taco shells.
Corn pudding is also a great way to add extra protein and nutrition to your tacos. It can be served hot or cold, so it’s versatile enough for any occasion.
Whether serving pork carnitas tacos for an everyday meal or as part of a special event, corn pudding makes a delicious addition everyone will love.
FAQs
Are Carnitas Tacos Good For Your Health?
Yes, Carnitas Tacos can be a great way to enjoy a healthy meal. Pork carnitas are high in protein and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Additionally, they can be prepared with other fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, peppers, avocado, and lettuce, which add even more nutrition to the dish.
Just be sure to avoid adding too much cheese or sour cream, as these can increase your tacos’ calorie and fat content.
What Vegetables To Serve With Pork Carnitas Tacos?
Vegetables are a great way to add color, texture, and flavor to your pork carnitas tacos.
Popular vegetable toppings include shredded cabbage or lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, bell peppers, cilantro, and lime wedges.
You can also make a taco bar with various pre-cut vegetables, such as shredded carrots, sliced radishes, and diced avocados.
What Salsas To Serve With Pork Carnitas Tacos?
Salsa is a must-have topping for pork carnitas tacos.
Popular options include traditional red or green salsas, tomatillo salsa verde, mango salsa, avocado salsa, and pineapple salsa.
You can also give your tacos an extra kick by adding hot sauce!
What Main Dishes To Serve With Pork Carnitas Tacos?
Pork carnitas tacos can be paired with various main dishes.
Some popular options include Mexican rice, black beans, and roasted vegetables. Add grilled chicken or steak to the plate for a heartier meal.
If you want a vegetarian option, serve roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa salad alongside your tacos.
Conclusion
Now you should know what to serve with pork carnitas tacos. Pork carnitas tacos are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served with various accompaniments.
Whether you prefer the traditional Mexican flavors of guacamole, pinto beans, and jalapeno cornbread or something with a bit more sweetness, like corn pudding, there are plenty of options.
Ultimately, whatever you choose to serve with pork carnitas tacos will surely be a delicious and satisfying meal for everyone.
So next time you’re looking for the perfect accompaniment to your tacos, consider one of these options – you won’t be disappointed!
