High Protein Orange and Cumin Pulled Pork keeps things simple but really delivers on flavor. This dish is all about juicy shredded pork with a punch of orange zest and just enough cumin to make it stand out.
You can pile it onto a bowl of rice. Or tuck it into tacos, or honestly, just eat it straight out of the pot, no one’s judging.
Grab some cilantro if you’re into that. But honestly, the orange and spice combo does most of the heavy lifting here.
It’s perfect for slow weekends. Or whenever you want to meal prep something that’ll work for dinner, lunch, or leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This High Protein Orange and Cumin Pulled Pork
Juicy and Tender
Low and slow cooking turns lean pork shoulder into soft, pull-apart pieces.
Bright Citrus Flavor
Orange zest and juice add a fresh kick that balances the savory spices.
High Protein
Each serving is packed with lean protein to keep you full and satisfied.
Versatile
Great in tacos, on rice bowls, or tucked into a sandwich roll.
Easy to Make
The oven does most of the work. You will just brown, bake, and shred.
Ingredient Substitutions
Pork Shoulder
Use pork loin for an even leaner cut, or chicken breast if you want to switch up the protein.
Orange Juice/Zest
Try lemon or lime for a different citrus spin.
Olive Oil
Any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil will work if you don’t have olive oil.
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High Protein Orange and Cumin Pulled Pork
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Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 pounds lean pork shoulder excess fat trimmed and discarded, cut into 1-in cubes
- 1½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1¼ cups water
- 1¼ tablespoon orange zest finely grated
- 2½ tablespoon orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
- Sprinkle pork with salt.
- Add pork to the pot in batches if needed. Brown the pork on all sides, about 10 minutes total.
- Turn off the heat. Sprinkle cumin, oregano, and garlic over the pork.
- Pour water into the pot and cover with a lid.
- Place the pot in the oven. Cook for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork is very tender.
- Use a shredding claws or two forks to shred the pork in the pot.
- Add orange zest and orange juice to the pork. Stir to combine.
- Taste and season with more salt if needed.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Make Ahead – This pulled pork is great for meal prep. Store in the fridge and use it throughout the week. Browning the Pork – Take time to brown the pork in batches to build the best flavor before baking. Serving Ideas – Serve over rice, stuffed in tortillas, or with a simple salad.Storing and Reheating
Storing – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on Stovetop – Place a serving in a saucepan with 1 to 2 tablespoons water. Warm over low heat, stirring until hot and juicy.Nutrition
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