If you have a craving for something irresistibly flavorful and tender, look no further than the Cafe Rio Sweet Shredded Pork for Burritos Recipe. This dish delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that make every bite a joy. The pork slowly cooks to melt-in-your-mouth perfection, infused with a blend of spices and a touch of sweetness from Coke and sugar, making it a standout filling for burritos or any Mexican-inspired meal. Whether you’re serving a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a total winner that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Cafe Rio Sweet Shredded Pork for Burritos Recipe comes from simple, everyday ingredients that work together beautifully to create bold, complex flavors. Each element brings its own special touch, from the rich pork butt to the zesty tomatillos and spicy serrano pepper. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 3-4 pound pork butt: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, breaking down into tender, juicy meat that shreds easily.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the pork’s natural flavors.
- 1 (8.25-oz) jar Adobo Sauce: Adds a deep, smoky, and mildly spicy undertone that’s signature to this recipe.
- 1 (12-oz) can Coca-Cola (regular, not diet): Provides sweetness and acidity that tenderizes the meat while adding that subtle caramel note.
- 1 cup sugar: Balances the heat and spices with a lovely sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: For a punch of savory depth.
- 2 teaspoons cumin: Offers warm, earthy flavors that are key in Mexican cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder: Adds a gentle sharpness that brightens the pork.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Lends just enough heat to keep things interesting.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Forms the base of a creamy, tangy topping to accompany the pork.
- 1 (.4-oz) package buttermilk ranch dressing (dry): Mixed into the mayo for a zesty, herby finish.
- 1 serrano pepper (seeded and chopped): Adds fresh green heat to your side sauce or garnishes.
- 3 small tomatillos (chopped): Bring a tart, bright note to balance the pork’s richness.
- Juice from 1 lime: Essential for a fresh burst that livens up the dish.
- 1/2 bunch cilantro: Bright, herbal flavor that complements all the savory elements.
- Shredded lettuce: Adds crispness and texture in your burrito or taco.
- Hot rice: A warming side that pairs beautifully with shredded pork.
- Black beans (warmed): Provide creaminess and protein for a complete meal.
- Sour cream: Offers cooling contrast against the flavorful pork.
- Avocados or guacamole: Bring buttery richness and smoothness.
- Cotija cheese: Salty, crumbly topping that finishes off your burrito perfectly.
How to Make Cafe Rio Sweet Shredded Pork for Burritos Recipe
Step 1: Season and Prepare the Pork
Start by patting your pork butt dry with a paper towel. Generously season it all over with salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavors as it cooks. The pork butt is your star ingredient here, and proper seasoning is the foundation for every tender, flavorful bite to come.
Step 2: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
In a bowl or in the slow cooker itself, mix together the Adobo sauce, Coca-Cola, sugar, minced garlic, cumin, dry mustard powder, and chili powder. This combination is where the magic happens—these ingredients will tenderize the pork as it simmers for hours, while infusing it with layers of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork
Place the seasoned pork butt in your slow cooker, and pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top. Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and falling apart. Slow cooking allows the connective tissue to break down fully, resulting in that iconic melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes this pork so special.
Step 4: Shred the Pork
Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the sauce in the slow cooker and stir well to coat every piece with that delicious, flavorful liquid. This step makes sure each bite is juicy and packed with taste.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and dry buttermilk ranch dressing. Stir in the chopped serrano pepper, chopped tomatillos, lime juice, and finely chopped cilantro for a fresh, tangy sauce that wonderfully complements the tender pork.
How to Serve Cafe Rio Sweet Shredded Pork for Burritos Recipe
Garnishes
Top your burritos with shredded lettuce, a dollop of the creamy ranch-tomatillo sauce, sour cream, and crumbled Cotija cheese. These garnishes add layers of texture and flavor—from crisp freshness to rich creaminess and a salty kick—that bring the entire dish together.
Side Dishes
Serve your sweet shredded pork alongside hot rice and warm black beans to round out the meal. The rice absorbs the pork’s flavorful juices while the beans provide a hearty, protein-rich balance, making it a satisfying feast every time.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond burritos, this Cafe Rio Sweet Shredded Pork for Burritos Recipe is fantastic in tacos, layered nachos, or even as a protein topping for a southwest-style salad. Try warming some corn or flour tortillas, pile on the pork and toppings, and enjoy endless variations that keep mealtime exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover shredded pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping the pork covered in its sauce will help maintain moisture and flavor, so it tastes just as good the next day.
Freezing
This shredded pork freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a quick meal, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pork gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep it moist and prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through for a delicious meal that tastes fresh.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare the Cafe Rio Sweet Shredded Pork for Burritos Recipe in a covered Dutch oven or heavy pot in the oven at 300°F for about 3 to 4 hours until the pork is tender. Just make sure to check periodically and add a bit of liquid if needed.
Is it important to use regular Coca-Cola and not diet?
Absolutely. The sugar content in regular Coke helps with the caramelization and tenderness of the pork. Diet or Coke Zero do not provide the same sweetness and may alter the final flavor and texture.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Definitely. If you prefer less heat, remove the serrano pepper or use less chili powder. For more spice, leave the seeds in the serrano or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This recipe is very customizable to your taste.
What if I don’t have Adobo sauce?
Adobo sauce adds a wonderful smoky and slightly tangy element. If you can’t find it, a mix of chipotle peppers in adobo or smoked paprika combined with tomato paste can be a good substitute.
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Pork butt is ideal because of its fat content and texture for shredding, but pork shoulder is a good alternative. Just ensure it’s a cut that softens with slow cooking for best results.
Final Thoughts
Once you try the Cafe Rio Sweet Shredded Pork for Burritos Recipe, it’s hard to go back to anything less flavorful. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring bold, comforting flavors to your table with minimal effort. The slow-cooked pork combined with the fresh creamy sauce and simple sides makes for a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. I’m excited for you to make it your own and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!
Print
Cafe Rio Sweet Shredded Pork for Burritos Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Cafe Rio Sweet Shredded Pork recipe is a flavorful and tender slow-cooked pork butt seasoned with a blend of spices, Adobo sauce, and Coke for a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Ideal for burritos, this pork pairs beautifully with fresh toppings like lettuce, avocado, and Cotija cheese, making it a delicious and satisfying meal option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3–4 pound pork butt
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (8.25-oz) jar Adobo Sauce
- 1 (12-oz) can Coke, approximately 1 and 1/2 cups (NOT diet, no Coke Zero)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Sauce and Toppings
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (.4-oz) package buttermilk ranch dressing mix (dry)
- 1 serrano pepper, seeded and roughly chopped
- 3 small tomatillos, chopped
- Juice from 1 lime
- 1/2 bunch cilantro
- Shredded lettuce, for serving
- Hot rice, for serving
- Black beans, warmed, for serving
- Sour cream, for serving
- Avocados or guacamole, for serving
- Cotija cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Season the pork butt generously with salt and pepper. Place it in a slow cooker or large pot suitable for slow cooking.
- Make the Cooking Liquid: In a bowl, mix the jar of Adobo sauce, Coke, sugar, minced garlic, cumin, dry mustard powder, and chili powder thoroughly until combined. Pour this mixture over the pork to cover it well.
- Slow Cook the Pork: Cover and cook the pork on low heat for approximately 8 hours (480 minutes), or until the meat is very tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Pork: Once fully cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the cooking juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Prepare the Ranch Sauce: In a blender, combine the mayonnaise, dry buttermilk ranch dressing mix, serrano pepper, tomatillos, lime juice, and cilantro. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Burritos: Warm tortillas and layer shredded pork, shredded lettuce, hot rice, black beans, sour cream, avocado or guacamole, Cotija cheese, and drizzle with the prepared ranch sauce. Roll up and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use regular Coca-Cola, not diet or Coke Zero, to ensure the proper sweetness and caramelization.
- Adjust the serrano pepper amount to control the heat level of the ranch sauce.
- For quicker preparation, use a pressure cooker to reduce cook time to about 1-2 hours, but adjust liquid amounts accordingly.
- Leftover pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve with warm flour or corn tortillas depending on your dietary preference.
