Root Beer Braised Pork Tacos

This tender, juicy pork shoulder slow-braised in spiced root beer creates the perfect filling for irresistible tacos. The natural sweetness from the root beer caramelizes as it reduces, creating a rich sauce that complements the savory pork beautifully. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors.

I first made these tacos for a backyard gathering when I wanted something different from traditional barbecue. The root beer braised pork was such a hit that friends still request it years later whenever we get together. What began as an experiment has become my signature dish.

Ingredients

• Boneless pork shoulder 2 lbs : Ideal for slow cooking as it becomes incredibly tender and juicy
• Olive oil 1 tablespoon : Use for searing to develop deep flavor
• Yellow onion 1 large : sliced Provides aromatic sweetness to balance the sauce
• Garlic 3 cloves : minced Adds essential savory notes that complement the sweet root beer
• Rebel Float Root Beer 1 cup : The star ingredient that tenderizes and adds unique flavor
• Chicken broth 1/2 cup : Creates depth in the braising liquid
• Tomato paste 2 tablespoons : Adds richness and umami to balance the sweetness
• Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon : Provides acidity to cut through the rich pork
• Brown sugar 1 tablespoon : Enhances caramelization and deepens flavor
• Smoked paprika 2 teaspoons : Adds smoky depth that makes these tacos special
• Ground cumin 1 teaspoon : Provides earthy warmth essential for Tex-Mex flavor
• Chili powder 1 teaspoon : Adds mild heat and complexity
• Salt 1 teaspoon : Essential for bringing out all other flavors
• Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon : Adds subtle heat and aromatics
• Corn or flour tortillas 8 small : Warm them slightly for best texture and flavor
• Shredded cabbage 2 cups : Provides fresh crunch to contrast the tender pork
• Sour cream 1/4 cup : Adds cooling creaminess to balance the rich meat
• Fresh cilantro 1/4 cup : chopped Brightens the entire dish with herbaceous notes
• Red onion 1 medium : thinly sliced Adds sharp contrast and beautiful color
• Lime wedges from 1 lime : Essential for adding brightness and acidity

Instructions

Prep the Pork:

Pat the pork shoulder completely dry using paper towels to ensure proper browning. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides making sure to massage the seasonings into the meat. This initial seasoning builds the first layer of flavor that will develop throughout the cooking process.

Sear to Perfection:

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Carefully place the seasoned pork in the hot oil and let it sear undisturbed for a full 4 minutes on each side until deeply browned. This caramelization creates the foundation for the rich sauce. Remove the pork and set aside on a plate to collect any juices.

Build the Flavor Base:

Add the sliced onions to the same pot with all those delicious browned bits from the pork. Cook for 3 minutes stirring occasionally until they begin to soften and turn translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more being careful not to let it burn which would add bitterness.

Create the Braising Liquid:

Stir in the tomato paste smoked paprika cumin chili powder and brown sugar allowing them to toast slightly for about 1 minute. The spices will become fragrant and the tomato paste will darken slightly. Immediately deglaze with apple cider vinegar scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release all the flavorful bits.

Combine and Braise:

Pour in the Rebel Float Root Beer and chicken broth stirring well to incorporate all ingredients. Return the seared pork to the pot nestling it into the liquid. Cover with a tight fitting lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Allow to braise for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is fork tender and easily pulls apart.

Shred and Reduce:

Remove the tender pork from the braising liquid and let it rest for 5 minutes. Using two forks shred the meat thoroughly discarding any large pieces of fat. Meanwhile skim excess fat from the top of the braising liquid and simmer the sauce on the stovetop for about 10 minutes until it reduces slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Finish the Pork:

Return the shredded pork to the reduced sauce folding it in to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful liquid. Let it simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes allowing the pork to absorb the intensified flavors of the reduced sauce.

Assemble the Tacos:

Warm your tortillas either in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20 seconds per side wrapped in foil in a 300°F oven or lightly charred directly over a gas flame. Fill each tortilla with a generous portion of the braised pork then top with shredded cabbage a drizzle of sour cream sliced red onion fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

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The first time I made this recipe I was skeptical about using root beer in a savory dish. But the complex vanilla and spice notes in quality root beer are what make this dish special. My absolute favorite part is watching guests take their first bite and try to identify that mysterious sweet note that makes these tacos so unique.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pork is actually better when made a day ahead allowing the flavors to meld overnight. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. The pork stays moist and delicious for up to 4 days in the refrigerator making it perfect for busy weeknight meals.

Creative Serving Ideas

While tacos are the classic way to enjoy this pork consider serving it in other formats for variety. Try loading it onto nachos with melted cheese and jalapeños stuffing it into quesadillas with sharp cheddar creating sliders with coleslaw on small brioche buns or serving it over creamy polenta for a fusion twist.

The Magic of Root Beer

Root beer might seem like an unusual ingredient but it has a long culinary history. Traditional root beer contains sassafras wintergreen vanilla licorice and other spices that complement pork beautifully. The natural sugars help tenderize the meat while the complex flavor profile adds depth that plain sugar or other sodas simply cannot match.

Balancing the Sweetness

If you find the finished dish too sweet for your taste balance it with additional acid. A splash more apple cider vinegar some pickled jalapeños or extra lime juice can cut through the sweetness. Conversely if you prefer a sweeter profile reduce the braising liquid further to concentrate the flavors.

Seasonal Adaptations

Summer Version Use fresh peaches or pineapple as a taco topping

Fall Option Add diced sweet potatoes to the braise for extra heartiness

Winter Variation Serve with a cranberry citrus salsa for holiday gatherings

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The key to this recipe is patience during the braising process. Resist the urge to increase the temperature to speed things up. Low and slow cooking allows the collagen in the pork shoulder to break down properly resulting in that meltinyourmouth texture we all crave. I've learned through many Sunday dinners that an extra 30 minutes in the oven is always worth the wait when it comes to braised pork.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this in a slow cooker instead of the oven?

Yes! For slow cooker preparation, follow steps 2-5 as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the pork shreds easily. You may want to reduce the braising liquid on the stovetop afterward for a thicker sauce.

→ What can I substitute for root beer?

If you don't have root beer, you can substitute with cola, Dr. Pepper, or even a strong ginger beer. Each will impart a slightly different flavor profile but will still create tender, flavorful pork.

→ How can I make this ahead of time?

The braised pork can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. Simply reheat in a covered pot on low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Assemble tacos just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

→ What sides pair well with these tacos?

These tacos pair beautifully with Mexican rice, black beans, corn salad, or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, add guacamole, pico de gallo, and tortilla chips on the side.

→ Can I freeze the leftover braised pork?

Absolutely! The braised pork freezes exceptionally well. Cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of liquid.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, add 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the braising liquid, increase the chili powder, or add cayenne pepper to taste. You can also serve with hot sauce or fresh sliced jalapeños on top.