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Pork loin tacos are a vibrant, flavor-packed way to bring a taste of homemade Mexican-inspired cuisine to your dinner table. The lean yet succulent pork loin pairs beautifully with a tangy marinade, creating a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet. Enjoy these tacos for a fun and easy weeknight meal or for relaxed weekend entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs pork loin, trimmed and sliced into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder (or chipotle in adobo, minced)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
- Crumbled cotija or feta cheese (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Pat the sliced pork loin dry with paper towels and place it in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chipotle chili powder, cumin, oregano, orange zest and juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper, then pour the mixture over the pork. Let the pork marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
When you’re ready to cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork strips from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and place them in the pan. Cook the pork for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is nicely browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked pork to a plate and cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
Warm your tortillas by lightly toasting them in a dry skillet or wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30 seconds. Fill each tortilla with a generous spoonful of the cooked pork. Add shredded cabbage or lettuce, fresh cilantro leaves, and a little crumbled cheese if desired. Squeeze lime juice over the top for a bright finishing touch.
These Zesty Chipotle-Orange Pork Loin Tacos are perfect for anyone looking for a quick, tasty weeknight meal elevated by fresh, bold flavors. The lean pork loin marries smoky spices with citrusy sweetness, making it a balanced option that still feels indulgent. Adjust the heat by playing with the amount of chipotle or add fresh jalapeños. You can also swap out cabbage for crunchy slaw or top the tacos with avocado slices for extra creaminess. It’s easy to tailor these tacos to dietary preferences, and they’re just as delicious prepared in advance for meal prep. Enjoy!
