Sweet Pork Burritos: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for the Perfect Weeknight Meal

Craving a burrito that’s both savory and sweet? Look no further! These Sweet Pork Burritos are the answer to your culinary desires. Tender, flavorful pork simmered in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce, wrapped in a warm tortilla with your favorite toppings – it’s a flavor explosion in every bite. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. We’ll walk you through each step, ensuring burrito perfection every time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible dish!

## Why This Sweet Pork Burrito Recipe Works

There are countless burrito recipes out there, but this sweet pork version stands out for several reasons:

* **Flavor Profile:** The combination of savory pork with the sweetness of brown sugar and honey creates a unique and addictive flavor that’s hard to resist.
* **Tender Pork:** The slow cooking method ensures that the pork is incredibly tender and easily shredded, melting in your mouth with every bite.
* **Customizable:** This recipe is a great base that you can easily customize with your favorite toppings and fillings.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** You can make the sweet pork ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** These burritos are always a hit at parties and gatherings. Everyone loves the combination of flavors and the satisfying texture.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:

* **Pork:** 3-4 pound pork shoulder (also known as pork butt). Look for a cut with good marbling for the best flavor and tenderness. Boneless or bone-in will work, but boneless is easier to shred after cooking.
* **Onion:** 1 large yellow onion, chopped.
* **Garlic:** 4-6 cloves garlic, minced.
* **Chicken Broth:** 4 cups chicken broth. This adds moisture and flavor to the pork as it cooks.
* **Brown Sugar:** 1/2 cup packed brown sugar. This provides the primary sweetness and caramelizes beautifully.
* **Honey:** 1/4 cup honey. Adds another layer of sweetness and a subtle floral note.
* **Apple Cider Vinegar:** 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar. This adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and tenderize the pork.
* **Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce:** 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (plus 1-2 tablespoons adobo sauce). These add a smoky heat and depth of flavor. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
* **Ground Cumin:** 1 tablespoon ground cumin. This adds a warm, earthy flavor.
* **Dried Oregano:** 1 teaspoon dried oregano. This adds a classic Mexican flavor.
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste.
* **Tortillas:** Large flour tortillas. Burrito-size tortillas are ideal.
* **Optional Toppings:** Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend), sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, rice, beans, salsa, cilantro, lime wedges.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Dutch Oven or Large Pot:** A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven is ideal for braising the pork, but a large pot will also work.
* **Skillet:** For searing the pork.
* **Tongs:** For handling the pork.
* **Cutting Board:** For chopping vegetables.
* **Knife:** For chopping vegetables and shredding the pork.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For measuring ingredients.
* **Shredding Forks:** For shredding the pork (optional, but helpful).

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the most delicious Sweet Pork Burritos:

**Step 1: Sear the Pork**

* Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This will help it brown properly.
* Season the pork generously with salt and pepper.
* Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
* Sear the pork on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This will take about 3-4 minutes per side. Searing the pork adds depth of flavor and helps to create a delicious crust.
* Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.

**Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**

* Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

**Step 3: Combine the Sauce Ingredients**

* In the Dutch oven or large pot, combine the chicken broth, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced chipotle peppers (and adobo sauce), ground cumin, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.

**Step 4: Braise the Pork**

* Add the seared pork to the Dutch oven or pot.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
* Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily shredded. Check the pork occasionally and add more chicken broth if needed to keep it submerged.

**Step 5: Shred the Pork**

* Remove the pork from the Dutch oven or pot and let it cool slightly.
* Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can use your fingers (but be careful, it will be hot!).

**Step 6: Return the Pork to the Sauce**

* Return the shredded pork to the sauce in the Dutch oven or pot. Toss to coat the pork evenly in the sauce.
* Simmer for another 15-20 minutes to allow the pork to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

**Step 7: Assemble the Burritos**

* Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
* Place a generous amount of sweet pork in the center of each tortilla.
* Add your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, rice, and beans.
* Fold the sides of the tortilla in and then fold the bottom up and over the filling. Roll tightly to form a burrito.

**Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!**

* Serve the Sweet Pork Burritos immediately. You can also grill them briefly in a dry skillet to create a crispy exterior.
* Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.

## Tips and Tricks for the Best Sweet Pork Burritos

* **Choose the Right Cut of Pork:** Pork shoulder (pork butt) is the best cut for this recipe because it has good marbling, which results in tender and flavorful pork.
* **Don’t Skip the Searing:** Searing the pork adds depth of flavor and helps to create a delicious crust.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to your spice preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with just one pepper and taste as you go.
* **Don’t Overcook the Pork:** Overcooked pork can be dry and tough. Cook the pork until it’s very tender and easily shredded.
* **Let the Pork Rest:** Letting the pork rest for a few minutes before shredding will make it easier to shred and help it retain its moisture.
* **Warm the Tortillas:** Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from tearing when you’re assembling the burritos.
* **Don’t Overfill the Burritos:** Overfilling the burritos will make them difficult to roll and may cause them to fall apart.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Feel free to experiment with different toppings to create your perfect Sweet Pork Burrito.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Spicier:** Add more chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
* **Sweeter:** Add more brown sugar or honey to taste.
* **Smokier:** Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce.
* **Vegetarian:** Substitute the pork with jackfruit or shredded mushrooms.
* **Chicken or Beef:** While this recipe is designed for pork, you can adapt it for chicken or beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Slow Cooker:** You can also make this recipe in a slow cooker. Sear the pork as directed, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is very tender.
* **Instant Pot:** For a faster cooking time, you can use an Instant Pot. Sear the pork as directed, then transfer it to the Instant Pot along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes, followed by a 15-minute natural pressure release.

## Serving Suggestions

These Sweet Pork Burritos are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of side dishes:

* **Mexican Rice:** A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with burritos.
* **Refried Beans:** Another classic side dish that adds protein and fiber.
* **Guacamole and Chips:** A must-have appetizer for any Mexican meal.
* **Pico de Gallo:** A fresh and flavorful salsa that adds a burst of flavor.
* **Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites):** A creamy and flavorful salad that’s perfect for summer.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

You can easily make the sweet pork ahead of time. After shredding the pork, let it cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the sweet pork for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover Sweet Pork Burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a dry skillet until heated through.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 600-800 per burrito (depending on toppings)
* Protein: 40-50 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 60-80 grams

*Note: This is an approximate nutritional estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

## Sweet Pork Burrito Recipe

**Yields:** 6-8 burritos
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 3-4 hours

**Ingredients:**

* 3-4 pound pork shoulder (pork butt)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large yellow onion, chopped
* 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/4 cup honey
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (plus 1-2 tablespoons adobo sauce)
* 1 tablespoon ground cumin
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
* 6-8 large flour tortillas
* Optional Toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, rice, beans, salsa, cilantro, lime wedges

**Instructions:**

1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned.
3. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
6. In a Dutch oven or large pot, combine chicken broth, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
7. Add the seared pork to the pot.
8. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is very tender.
9. Remove the pork from the pot and let cool slightly.
10. Shred the pork with two forks.
11. Return the shredded pork to the sauce and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
12. Warm the tortillas.
13. Assemble the burritos by placing sweet pork and desired toppings in the center of each tortilla.
14. Fold the sides in and roll tightly.
15. Serve immediately and enjoy!

## Conclusion

These Sweet Pork Burritos are a delicious and easy meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is irresistible, and the tender pork is incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality burrito in the comfort of your own home. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a flavor explosion in every bite!

## FAQs

**Can I use a different cut of pork?**
While pork shoulder (pork butt) is recommended for its marbling and tenderness, you could technically use other cuts like pork loin. However, the results may not be as tender or flavorful. If using pork loin, be sure to watch it closely to avoid overcooking.

**Can I make this recipe vegetarian?**
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for vegetarians. Substitute the pork with jackfruit or shredded mushrooms. Jackfruit has a similar texture to shredded pork and absorbs flavors well. Season the jackfruit or mushrooms with the same spices and simmer in the sauce as directed.

**How do I prevent the tortillas from tearing?**
The key to preventing tortillas from tearing is to warm them before assembling the burritos. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and less likely to crack or tear. You can warm them in a dry skillet, in the microwave, or in a tortilla warmer.

**Can I freeze the cooked sweet pork?**
Yes, you can freeze the cooked sweet pork. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

**What toppings go well with sweet pork burritos?**
The possibilities are endless! Some popular toppings include shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend), sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, rice, beans, salsa, cilantro, and lime wedges. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite toppings.

**How spicy is this recipe?**
The spice level of this recipe depends on the amount of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce you use. Start with 2 peppers for a mild to medium spice level. If you prefer a spicier burrito, add more peppers. Remember to taste the sauce as you go and adjust the spice level accordingly.

**Can I make this in a slow cooker?**
Yes, this recipe works great in a slow cooker. Sear the pork as directed, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is very tender. Shred the pork and return it to the sauce for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

**Can I make this in an Instant Pot?**
Yes, you can also make this in an Instant Pot for a faster cooking time. Sear the pork as directed, then transfer it to the Instant Pot along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes, followed by a 15-minute natural pressure release. Shred the pork and return it to the sauce. Select the saute function to allow the sauce to thicken for a few minutes before assembling the burritos.

**Is it necessary to sear the pork?**
While it’s not absolutely necessary, searing the pork is highly recommended. Searing the pork adds depth of flavor and creates a delicious crust that enhances the overall taste of the burritos. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.

**What kind of tortillas should I use?**
For the best results, use large flour tortillas that are specifically designed for burritos. These tortillas are typically larger and more pliable than regular flour tortillas, making them easier to roll and less likely to tear. You can find burrito-size tortillas in most grocery stores.