Simple and Frugal Recipes

Hello, fellow frugal foodies! Tonight’s culinary adventure led me to whip up a dish that’s not only budget-friendly but also bursting with flavor — the Shredded Pork Burrito Bowl. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick, easy, and satisfying without breaking the bank or resorting to another bland meal. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

1-2 lb pork tenderloin (you can also use pork loin or pork chops if that’s what you have)
1 bag of frozen peppers and onion blend
2 tablespoons taco seasoning, divided
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Cooked rice (amount as needed)
Shredded cheese (as much as you fancy)
Salsa (get ready to dollop)
Fresh cilantro (for that herbaceous hit)
Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, or diced tomatoes

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is perfect for cooking pork tenderloin quickly while keeping it juicy and tender.

Season and Sear:
Take your pork tenderloin and coat it with 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning. Heat a pan with 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high. Once hot, add your pork and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until all sides are beautifully browned. This step locks in the flavors and gives the pork a delicious crust.

Bake the Pork:
After searing, transfer the pork to a baking pan and pop it into the oven. Let it roast for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through yet still succulent.

Rice and Rest:
While the pork is baking, cook your rice according to the package instructions. Let the pork rest for about 10 minutes after baking—this makes sure all the juicy goodness stays inside when you shred it.

Sauté and Simmer:
In the same pan used for searing, add a splash (about 1/4 cup) of water and bring to a simmer. Stir in the remaining taco seasoning. Toss in the frozen onions and peppers, and let them cook for 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and vibrant.

Shred and Mix:
Shred the rested pork using two forks—it should pull apart easily. Add the shredded pork back to the pan with the veggies and stir until everything is wonderfully combined.

Assembly

Layer your cooked rice in a bowl, pile on the savory pork and veggie mixture, and then top with salsa, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Feel free to crown it with any (or all) of your favorite extras like sour cream, creamy avocado slices, or a burst of fresh diced tomatoes.

There you have it! A shredded pork burrito bowl that’s as easy to make as it is to love. This dish is a testament that frugal eating doesn’t have to be dreary—it can be vibrant, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a meal prepped for the week ahead, this burrito bowl is sure to please.