Smoky Mountain BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos

Smoky Mountain BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos

This is a BBQ pulled pork taco recipe inspired by the Smoky Mountain region and Southern American street food culture. It includes instructions for preparation, cooking times, and tips for plating.

🕒 Prep - 20 minutes; Cook - 8 hours; Total - 8 hours 20 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6
🔥 Difficulty: Advanced
🌎 Cuisine: American, Street Food

Allergens

Dairy (in cotija cheese)

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs pork shoulder
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1/2 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
  • 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
  • 1/4 cup pickled red onions
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pork: Season the pork shoulder generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite dry rub. Wrap in foil and place on a preheated grill or smoker at 250°F for approximately 6 8 hours until tender. Remove from heat and shred using two forks.
  2. Prepare the BBQ sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar and 1/4 cup brown sugar. Stir until well combined, then set aside.
  3. Warm the tortillas: Wrap corn tortillas in foil and place on the grill or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 7 minutes, until warmed through.
  4. Assemble the tacos: Divide shredded pork among warmed tortillas. Top with shredded lettuce, sliced red onion and jalapeño (if using), avocado slices, a drizzle of BBQ sauce, and a squeeze of lime juice. Finish with a sprinkle of cotija cheese, pickled red onions, and a pinch of fresh cilantro leaves.
  5. Serve immediately with additional BBQ sauce on the side.

Chef’s Insight

For an extra smoky flavor, use a combination of applewood and hickory wood chips when grilling or smoking the pork.

Notes

Adjust spice levels and toppings according to your preference.

Cultural or Historical Background

This recipe draws inspiration from Southern American street food and BBQ culture.