Shredded Pork from Costa Vida features tender, slow-cooked pork seasoned with a blend of smoky spices, served juicy and flavorful with a hint of savory richness.
Equipments
- Slow cooker or crockpot
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Forks (for shredding)
- Spoon or ladle
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) pork shoulder or pork butt
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Using pork shoulder or pork butt is essential to achieve the tender, juicy texture typical of Shredded Pork from Costa Vida, as these cuts have the right fat content and connective tissue to break down during slow cooking. Be precise with the smoky spices like smoked paprika and chili powder to capture the authentic flavor profile, along with a balanced amount of citrus juices to enhance the savory richness. Avoid skipping the brown sugar since it adds a subtle sweetness that complements the smoky and spicy notes. Using a slow cooker or crockpot ensures the meat becomes tender while allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Your homemade Shredded Pork from Costa Vida copycat menu will deliver the same succulent, flavorful experience as the original dish.
Instructions
- Pat pork shoulder dry with paper towels and place on cutting board.
- Trim excess fat from pork, then cut into large chunks if necessary.
- In a mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and brown sugar.
- Rub spice mixture all over pork pieces to coat evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear pork pieces in skillet until browned on all sides, using tongs to turn, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Transfer seared pork to slow cooker.
- Pour orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth over pork in slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until pork is very tender.
- Remove pork from slow cooker and transfer to cutting board.
- Shred pork with two forks.
- Return shredded pork to slow cooker and mix with juices to coat well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve as desired.
Substitution
Shredded Pork from Costa Vida copycat menu can be made using either pork shoulder or pork butt, both ideal for slow cooking to achieve tenderness. If you don't have a slow cooker, cooking the seasoned pork in a large skillet or oven at low temperature can yield similar results. In the absence of orange juice or lime juice, substitute with equal parts pineapple juice or apple cider vinegar for a similar citrusy tang. When shredding the cooked pork, use forks or tongs carefully to maintain the meat's juiciness and texture. Your choice of spices can be adjusted slightly to match personal heat preference by reducing or increasing crushed red pepper flakes.
Tips
Ensure you pat the pork shoulder dry before seasoning to help the spices adhere better and create a rich crust during searing. When browning the pork in the skillet, avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve even caramelization and lock in the smoky flavors. Use two forks to shred the pork gently, preserving its tender texture, and mix it back into the cooking juices to keep it moist and flavorful. You can customize the seasoning level after shredding, so taste your dish before serving to match your preferred spice intensity.
Nutritions
Shredded Pork from Costa Vida provides a rich source of protein essential for muscle repair and maintenance, with pork shoulder offering approximately 70 grams of protein per 8-ounce serving. The dish incorporates heart-healthy olive oil and a blend of spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder, which contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support immune health. Citrus juices such as orange and lime add vitamin C, promoting skin health and enhancing iron absorption from the pork. Your meal balances savory flavors with nutritional benefits, delivering both energy and essential nutrients.
Storage
Store your shredded pork in an airtight container to maintain its juiciness and rich smoky flavor. Refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days or freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months to preserve tenderness and seasoning. Thaw frozen pork overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently in a skillet or slow cooker to retain moisture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment with substituting pork shoulder with boneless country-style ribs for a slightly leaner texture while maintaining juiciness. Instead of orange and lime juice, use pineapple juice combined with a splash of apple cider vinegar to add a tangy-sweet twist. To infuse more depth, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce before slow cooking for smoky heat. Searing the pork in bacon fat rather than olive oil gives the meat an extra layer of savory richness.
Allergies
The shredded pork from Costa Vida contains common allergens such as garlic powder and onion powder, which may cause reactions in individuals sensitive to alliums. While the recipe is free from dairy, nuts, and gluten ingredients, the use of chicken broth can be a concern for those with poultry allergies or intolerances. You should check the chicken broth ingredient list carefully to ensure it doesn't contain any hidden allergens that may affect your dietary restrictions.
Why this recipe?
The Shredded Pork menu from Costa Vida restaurant is popular due to its tender, slow-cooked pork marinated in a blend of smoky chipotle and tangy citrus flavors, delivering a balance of savory and zesty taste. Its rich texture and authentic Mexican spices create a satisfying meal that appeals to those craving bold, flavorful dishes. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the seasoning intensity and freshness, ensuring a perfect match for your personal palate. Your homemade shredded pork can capture the essence of Costa Vida's dish while offering the flexibility to enjoy it anytime.