Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound of pork shoulder, cut into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon of cumin
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of orange juice
- 1/4 cup of lime juice
- 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 bag of tortilla chips
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup of diced red onion
- 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture all over the pork pieces.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the pork, orange juice, lime juice, and vegetable oil. Cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
4. Spread the tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chips.
5. Using a slotted spoon, remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on top of the cheese and chips.
6. Bake the nachos for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove the nachos from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño slices.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 8 hours (slow cooker) + 15 minutes (oven)
Temperature:
- Slow cooker: low heat
- Oven: 375°F
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 30g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork shoulder can be substituted with beef or chicken.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese.
- Jalapeño pepper can be substituted with serrano pepper or poblano pepper.
Variations:
- Add black beans or corn to the nachos for extra flavor and texture.
- Top the nachos with guacamole or sour cream for a creamy finish.
- Use different types of cheese, such as queso fresco or feta, for a unique twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to rub the pork with the spice mixture to ensure maximum flavor.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the pork from the slow cooker to avoid excess liquid on the nachos.
- Customize the toppings to your liking.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the nachos in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the nachos on a large platter for sharing.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and jalapeño slices for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeño peppers
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
Pairings:
- Serve with a cold beer or margarita for a refreshing drink.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Grilled corn on the cob
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pork is not falling apart easily, cook it for an additional hour in the slow cooker.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the pork to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish made with slow-cooked pork.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, savory, and tangy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the nachos as a main dish or appetizer.
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Region: Mexican