Before: Pork Carnitas Plate. Carnitas are a labor of love, as pork simmers in fat for hours until tender, then gets piled onto a plate with refried beans and rice. Very few veggies find their way into this classic dish.
A half-pound of chicken is a gracious plenty for these tacos, which are beefed up with pinto beans, Greek yogurt-amped avocado crema, and a crunchy slaw topped with pumpkinseeds. The plant protein sources make up about half the total amount.
How to Make It
Step 1
Combine shallots, stock, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, paprika, chicken, and garlic in a small saucepan; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 15 minutes. Remove chicken from pan; set aside. Increase heat to medium; cook 8 minutes or until liquid is reduced to about 2 to 3 tablespoons. Shred chicken with 2 forks; stir chicken and beans into cooking liquid. Mash some of the beans to thicken and bind the mixture.
Step 2
While chicken cooks, combine cabbage, cilantro, 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice, oil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt; toss well to combine. Sprinkle with pepitas.
Step 3
Combine yogurt, avocado, remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl; mash to desired consistency.
Step 4
Heat tortillas directly over a gas flame or in a hot cast-iron skillet for 20 seconds on each side or until lightly charred. Divide chicken mixture, slaw, and avocado mixture evenly among tortillas.
Excellent!