If you are craving something fresh, flavorful, and downright delicious, you have to try this Ground Pork Tacos with Apple Slaw Recipe. It perfectly balances hearty, spiced ground pork with a crisp, tangy apple slaw that adds a wonderful brightness to every bite. The combination of tender meat, vibrant slaw, and warm tortillas makes these tacos a delightful meal that’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to impress friends. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each bringing its own magic to the table. From the aromatic spices that infuse the ground pork with warmth and depth, to the crisp apples in the slaw that provide a refreshing crunch, every component plays a vital role in making this dish truly exceptional.
- 6-8 medium flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping all the tasty fillings.
- 1 pound lean ground pork: The star protein that soaks up all the spices beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps cook the pork evenly and keeps it juicy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in taco seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a mild heat and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Packs a garlicky punch without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts savoriness subtly.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth that complements the pork perfectly.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings to bring everything together.
- Apple slaw: Crisp apples mixed into a tangy slaw add brightness and crunch for contrast.
- Avocado: Creamy slices to mellow out the spices.
- Tomatoes: Juicy, fresh chunks to elevate each bite.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty finish.
How to Make Ground Pork Tacos with Apple Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Tortillas
Start by preheating your oven to 375F. Wrap the tortillas in foil to warm them all at once in the oven. This ensures they’re soft and flexible, ready to fold around the flavorful pork and crisp slaw. Warm tortillas make a huge difference in texture and enjoyment.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Pork
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork along with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until the pork is fully cooked, stirring frequently and breaking up the meat so it browns evenly with all those delicious spices.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Slaw and Garnishes
While your pork is cooking, quickly whip up the apple slaw and chop any additional garnishes like avocado and tomatoes. The sweet and tangy apple slaw brings fresh texture and bright flavor to each taco, perfectly balancing the richly spiced pork.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Once the pork is cooked through and tortillas warmed, it’s time to assemble! Spoon the spiced ground pork onto each tortilla, top with a generous helping of apple slaw, avocado slices, and tomatoes. Serve with lime wedges for that extra zing that makes each bite shine.
How to Serve Ground Pork Tacos with Apple Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can make these tacos your own. Aside from the classic avocado, tomatoes, and lime wedges, consider fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños for heat, or a drizzle of creamy sour cream. Each adds layers of flavor and texture that enhance the whole experience.
Side Dishes
Ground Pork Tacos with Apple Slaw Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a crisp salad. Fresh corn on the cob or grilled veggies also complement the smoky, savory pork beautifully and keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these tacos family-style on a large platter so everyone can build their own. Or, make mini taco bites for parties by using smaller tortillas or cutting the bigger ones into taco-sized rounds. You could also add a drizzle of chipotle mayo or a sprinkle of queso fresco for an extra-special touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover ground pork and apple slaw can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The pork will stay good for about 3 to 4 days, while the apple slaw might last a day or two longer if kept chilled.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked ground pork by placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It’s best used within 2 to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture. However, the apple slaw doesn’t freeze well because the apples and dressing can get soggy.
Reheating
To reheat the pork, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally to keep it moist. Always reheat just before serving to keep the pork juicy. Warm your tortillas fresh and toss the apple slaw cold for the crisp contrast you love.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground pork with another meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or beef all work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and taste to balance the seasoning.
What kind of apples work best in the slaw?
Crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are perfect. They hold their texture well and add a nice tang that complements the savory pork.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Ground Pork Tacos with Apple Slaw Recipe is mildly spiced but not overly hot. You can always add more chili powder or fresh jalapeños if you prefer extra heat.
Can I make the apple slaw in advance?
Yes, but it’s best eaten within a day or two to keep it fresh and crunchy. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain the best texture.
Are flour tortillas essential, or can I use corn tortillas?
Both work well! Flour tortillas are softer and easier to handle, but corn tortillas offer a traditional flavor that pairs beautifully with the pork and slaw.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about the combination of spiced ground pork and crisp apple slaw in warm tortillas. This Ground Pork Tacos with Apple Slaw Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that brings together textures and flavors in such a joyful way. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner or hosting a taco night, don’t hesitate to make this dish your new go-to. Enjoy every bite as much as I do!
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Ground Pork Tacos with Apple Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (6 tacos per serving)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Ground Pork Tacos with Apple Slaw offer a flavorful and quick meal featuring seasoned ground pork cooked to perfection and topped with a fresh, crisp apple slaw. Warm flour tortillas are filled with savory pork, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and zesty lime wedges, making for a perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Tortillas
- 6–8 medium flour tortillas
Ground Pork
- 1 pound lean ground pork
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Apple Slaw & Garnishes
- Apple slaw (prepared separately with shredded apple, cabbage, and dressing)
- Avocado slices
- Diced tomatoes
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Warm the tortillas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tortillas on a baking sheet and cover them with foil to keep them warm and soft as they heat through, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the ground pork: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and then the ground pork. Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently and breaking up the meat with a spatula until the pork is fully cooked and browned.
- Prepare the apple slaw and garnishes: While the pork cooks, prepare the apple slaw by combining shredded apple with shredded cabbage and a light dressing. Slice avocado, dice tomatoes, and cut lime wedges for topping the tacos.
- Assemble and serve: Once the pork is cooked and the tortillas are warm, assemble the tacos by layering the pork in each tortilla, topping with apple slaw, avocado slices, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Notes
- Use lean ground pork to reduce excess fat while cooking.
- Apple slaw can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Adjust seasoning according to your heat preference by adding cayenne or extra chili powder.
- Flour tortillas can be substituted with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
