The Sweet Pork Burrito from Cafe Rio features tender, slow-cooked sweet pork marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, combined with fluffy rice, fresh black beans, crisp lettuce, melted cheese, and tangy salsa, all wrapped in a warm, soft flour tortilla for a satisfying, savory meal.
Equipments
- Slow cooker or Instant Pot
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Saucepan
- Rice cooker or pot with lid
- Skillet or frying pan
- Baking sheet (optional, for melting cheese)
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle
- Tongs
- Serving spoons
- Grater (for cheese, if not pre-shredded)
- Aluminum foil (optional, for keeping burritos warm)
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (pork butt)
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 can (12 oz) Coca-Cola (not diet)
- 1/2 cup enchilada sauce (red)
- 1/2 cup green salsa (tomatillo salsa or salsa verde)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 cups long grain white rice
- 3 cups water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (for rice)
- 1 lime (for rice)
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (for rice)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (for beans)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for beans)
- Salt and black pepper (for beans, to taste)
- 8-10 large flour tortillas
- 2-3 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1-2 cups salsa (your favorite kind)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños
When preparing the Sweet Pork Burrito from Cafe Rio, choosing a high-quality pork shoulder is essential for tender, flavorful meat. Using regular Coca-Cola (not diet) in the marinade helps caramelize and balance the sweetness during slow cooking. Freshly cooked long grain white rice infused with lime and cilantro complements the pork's rich taste. Opt for fresh black beans and homemade or trusted salsa varieties to enhance overall flavor and texture. Your homemade Sweet Pork Burrito copycat will capture the authentic taste and satisfy cravings for this popular Cafe Rio menu item.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Prepare the Sweet Pork:
- Place pork shoulder in slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Coca-Cola, enchilada sauce, green salsa, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
- Pour mixture over pork.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours (Instant Pot: pressure cook for about 75 minutes).
- Shred pork and return to sauce; keep warm.
- Cook the Rice:
- Rinse rice and add to rice cooker or pot with water, butter, and salt.
- Cook rice until fluffy.
- Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- Prepare the Black Beans:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add drained black beans, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally; keep warm.
- Prep Toppings:
- Wash and shred lettuce.
- Grate cheese, if needed.
- Set out salsa and any optional toppings.
- Warm Tortillas:
- Heat flour tortillas in skillet or microwave until warm and pliable.
- Assemble Burritos:
- Lay tortilla flat.
- Add rice, black beans, sweet pork, shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, and desired toppings.
- Fold sides, roll up tightly.
- Optional: Melt Cheese
- Place filled burritos on baking sheet.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top; broil until melted.
- Serve:
- Wrap in foil to keep warm, if desired.
- Serve immediately with sides and extra salsa.
Substitution
The Sweet Pork Burrito from Cafe Rio copycat menu calls for pork shoulder slow-cooked with brown sugar and Coca-Cola to achieve its signature tender and flavorful texture, but you can substitute diet soda or cola with apple juice or root beer if necessary. If you don't have enchilada sauce or green salsa on hand, a combination of tomato sauce with chili powder and lime juice can serve as a decent alternative. When making the rice, fresh lime juice and cilantro enhance the dish's authenticity, but you may skip them for a simpler version. Black beans can be replaced with pinto beans or refried beans in this recipe without compromising texture much. Your kitchen tools can be simplified by using a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker to speed up the pork cooking process.
Tips
Ensure you rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to prevent it from becoming sticky, enhancing the fluffy texture essential for your Sweet Pork Burrito. When shredding the pork shoulder, use two forks for easier, uniform pieces that will better absorb the flavorful sauce. Warm your flour tortillas just before assembling to make them more pliable and prevent tearing during the rolling process. You should season the black beans well and heat them slowly to bring out their flavor without burning or drying them out.
Nutritions
The Sweet Pork Burrito is a balanced combination of protein from tender pork shoulder and black beans, providing essential amino acids for muscle repair and energy. Long grain white rice contributes carbohydrates that fuel your body, while shredded lettuce and salsa add fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Cheese supplies calcium and healthy fats, supporting bone health and satiety. This meal delivers a hearty blend of macronutrients and micronutrients, making it a nutritious and satisfying choice for your diet.
Storage
Store leftover Sweet Pork Burritos in airtight containers or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, ensuring your fillings are cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Reheat in a microwave or oven, wrapped in foil or covered, to keep the tortilla soft and pork tender.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken thighs for pork shoulder to achieve a lighter yet still tender and flavorful filling. Instead of Coca-Cola, try using apple juice or pineapple juice to add a different sweetness and acidity to the marinade. For a smoky variation, incorporate chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into the sauce mixture or add smoked paprika to the seasoning blend. If you prefer a skillet method, sear the pork on all sides before slow cooking to enhance the depth of flavor.
Allergies
Your Sweet Pork Burrito contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and optional sour cream, which may cause reactions for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The flour tortillas include gluten, posing a risk for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Additionally, ingredients like black beans and spices may trigger sensitivities in some people, so it's important to review the full ingredient list if you have food allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Sweet Pork Burrito from Cafe Rio features tender, slow-cooked pork glazed with a perfectly balanced sweet and savory sauce, creating a rich flavor profile that satisfies cravings. Its combination of fresh ingredients like cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and zesty pico de gallo enhances every bite with vibrant textures and tastes. You'll appreciate the burst of authentic Mexican-inspired flavors that make this dish a standout choice for any meal. Crafting a copycat version allows you to enjoy the same delicious experience at home, customized to your preferred spice and ingredient levels.