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Arab Tacos

Experience the vibrant fusion of Middle Eastern spices and Mexican street food with these tender, marinated pork tacos, prepared in just about 2 hours for a unique and unforgettable taste sensation.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 90 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 2 hrs
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 220  C
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $  25
Calories: 400
Best Season: Fall
Description

Arab Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican tacos, featuring pork shoulder marinated in a blend of yogurt, citrus, and aromatic Middle Eastern spices. Slow-cooked with sliced onions and bay leaves until tender, the pork is then shredded and given a final crisp in a hot oven. Served in warm pita or tortillas with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, these tacos offer a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly smoky flavors—a true cross-cultural culinary adventure.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs pork shoulder (907 g)
  • 1 cup plain yogurt – (240 ml)
  • 4 cloves garlic – (approximately 12 g)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice – (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin – (7 g)
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander – (7 g)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – (2 g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt – (2.5 g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – (1 g)
  • 1 large onion – (150 g)
  • 2 bay leaves – (no conversion)
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth – (240 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – (30 ml)
  • Pita bread or tortillas – (for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro – (for garnish)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the pork shoulder pieces and toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse the meat.
  2. 2
    Slow Cook the Pork: In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the marinated pork, sliced onion, bay leaves, and water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat and allow it to cook slowly for about 1 hour 30 minutes, until the pork is tender and easily shredable.
  3. 3
    Shred and Crisp: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the pork pieces from the pot and use two forks to gently shred the meat. If desired, reserve a small amount of the cooking liquid to keep the meat moist. Spread the shredded pork evenly on a baking sheet, drizzle with vegetable oil, and place in the preheated oven. Crisp the meat for 10–15 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the edges become golden and crisp.
  4. 4
    Serve: Allow the crisped pork to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Fill warm pita or tortillas with the meat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and add extra lemon wedges on the side if desired. Enjoy your delicious Arab Tacos that bring together the best of Middle Eastern and Mexican flavors!
Keywords: Arab Tacos, tacos árabes, marinated pork, fusion taco, Middle Eastern spices, Mexican street
Read it online: https://www.leonisteam.com/recipe/arab-tacos/