Name: Delicious Cafe Rio Sweet Pork
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 lb boneless pork shoulder (trim excess fat and cut into large chunks); 2 cups cola (not diet); 1.5 cups brown sugar (packed); 1 cup red enchilada sauce; 4 oz diced green chiles (mild); 1 cup yellow onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste); 0.5 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

why make this recipe

Cafe Rio Sweet Pork is a beloved dish known for its sweet and savory flavor. It’s perfect for taco night, burrito bowls, or even as a filling for sandwiches. Making this recipe at home allows you to enjoy the delicious taste in a more affordable way. Plus, you can customize it to your liking!

how to make Delicious Cafe Rio Sweet Pork

Ingredients:

4 lb boneless pork shoulder (pork butt) (trim excess fat and cut into large chunks)
2 cup cola (not diet)
1.5 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 cup red enchilada sauce
4 oz diced green chiles (mild)
1 cup yellow onion, chopped
4 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
0.5 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (balances sweetness)

Directions:

Prepare the Pork: Begin by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder and cutting it into large chunks. This helps it cook evenly and makes the final dish less greasy.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cola, brown sugar, red enchilada sauce, diced green chiles, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Mix well.
Cook the Pork: Place the pork chunks in a slow cooker. Pour the cola mixture over the pork, ensuring it is well covered.
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. The meat should be tender and easy to shred.
Shred the Meat: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with the cooking juices. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to soak up the flavor.

how to serve Delicious Cafe Rio Sweet Pork

Serve the sweet pork in warm tortillas for tacos, in a bowl with rice and beans for a burrito bowl, or even on a plate with your favorite sides. Top with fresh cilantro, avocados, or salsa for added flavor.

how to store Delicious Cafe Rio Sweet Pork

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the sweet pork for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Delicious Cafe Rio Sweet Pork

Adjust sweetness: If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the brown sugar or add more spices to balance the flavors.
Add heat: If you like spicy food, try adding some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Enhance flavor: Letting the shredded pork sit in the juices for a longer time will deepen the flavor.

variation (if any)

You can use chicken instead of pork for a lighter version of this recipe. Just cook it the same way, adjusting the cooking time based on the meat’s thickness.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of meat?
- Yes, you can use pork loin or chicken for a different flavor profile, but the cooking times may vary.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the pork in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to serve.
What sides go well with this dish?
- Rice, beans, corn, or a fresh salad are great sides that complement the sweet pork. You can also add tortilla chips for a crunchy element.