Recipes » Copycat ~ Clone » Café Rio Sweet Pork – Instant Pot Recipe

Café Rio Sweet Pork – Instant Pot Recipe

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Making copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork in the Instant Pot or pressure cooker is an easy and cost-effective way to enjoy a delicious meal ever leaving the comfort of home.

With its delicious combination of flavors, savory pork roast, sweet Coca-Cola and brown sugar, red enchilada sauce, garlic, and green chilies, this dish will satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Plus, with substitutions available for many ingredients like pork shoulder or butt instead of pork roast and coconut sugar instead of brown sugar – it can easily be tailored to specific dietary needs.

The Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker makes cooking this dish fast and efficient. After marinating overnight (or at least 2 hours if you don’t have the time), simply put the pork in the cooker with the liquid and cook for 45 minutes under pressure.

instant pot with homemade cafe rio sweet pork

Shredding the cooked pork is easy with two large forks – no need for special tools or equipment. Then add your other ingredients such as Enchilada Sauce, Garlic, Green Chilies, Coke and Brown Sugar into the pot and cook for 30-60 more minutes on low heat – depending on your preferred texture.

This versatile recipe can be enjoyed in so many ways, from burritos to tacos to salads or even nachos! And because it cooks up quickly in just one pot – clean-up is a cinch!

So why wait? Try making Café Rio Sweet Pork in your Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker today – you won’t be disappointed!

Café Rio Sweet Pork is a delectable dish featuring slow-cooked, tender shredded pork infused with a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. Made with ingredients like Coca-Cola, brown sugar, red enchilada sauce, and green chilies, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite known for its versatility and mouthwatering taste.

Cafe Rio Sweet Pork Ingredients

cafe rio sweet pork ingredients in white dishes on a table

Boneless Pork Roast

Boneless pork roast is the ideal ingredient for this Copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork recipe. Not only does it have a great flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients, but its texture also holds up during the cooking process without becoming too dry or tough.

The marinade helps to tenderize and add even more flavor to the pork, while adding a bit of fat which keeps it moist as it cooks. Additionally, using boneless pork roast makes this dish easy to shred once cooked – perfect for tacos or burritos!

Aside from boneless pork roast, other cuts of meat that can be used in this Café Rio Sweet Pork recipe include boneless pork shoulder or butt, boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, and even lean ground beef.

Pork shoulder and butt offer a similar texture to pork roast but are usually less expensive. They also tend to have more fat content and are ideal for slow cooking as the fat renders off, adding more flavor to the dish.

Chicken is a great substitute for pork as it has a milder flavor and still shreds nicely when cooked. All these meats provide a delicious variation of flavors and textures that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds!

Coca-Cola (regular, not diet)

Coca-Cola (regular, not diet) is a key ingredient in this Copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork recipe. The carbonation from the soda helps to tenderize the pork roast as it cooks while also adding sweetness and depth of flavor.

Additionally, the acidity of the Coke balances out the flavors of other ingredients like garlic and green chilies that are added later in cooking. As an added, Coca-Cola gives a beautiful glossy sheen to your finished dish – perfect for presentation!
coca cola to tenderize meat

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar is essential to this Copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork recipe. Not only does it add sweetness and depth of flavor, but it also helps to tenderize the pork as it cooks.

Additionally, the brown sugar provides a beautiful glossy sheen to your finished dish – perfect for presentation!
moist brown sugar

Red Enchilada Sauce

Red enchilada sauce is an important ingredient in this Copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork recipe. Not only does it add a delicious flavor to the dish, but its rich and spicy taste helps balance out all the other flavors while adding a bit of heat.

Additionally, red enchilada sauce adds essential moisture to the pork as it cooks – helping to keep it tender and juicy even after long cooking times.

Furthermore, using red enchilada sauce gives your finished dish a beautiful color, making the presentation easier and more appealing.

With its unique flavor profile and ability to help keep food moist during cooking, red enchilada sauce is an indispensable part of this delicious Copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork Recipe!
red enchilada sauce

Minced Garlic

Minced garlic is an essential ingredient in this Copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork. Not only does it give the dish a delicious flavor, but its pungent and aromatic aroma adds depth to the other flavors of the dish.

Additionally, garlic helps tenderize the pork as it cooks while adding moisture, which keeps it juicy even after long cooking times.
fresh minced garlic

Green Chilies

Green chilies are an important ingredient in this Copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork recipe. Not only does it add a delicious flavor to the dish, but its mild spiciness helps balance out all the other flavors while adding a bit of heat.

Additionally, green chilies add essential moisture to the pork as it cooks – helping keep it tender and juicy even after long cooking times.
diced green chilies

Café Rio Sweet Pork Recipe

Welcome to the tantalizing world of Café Rio Sweet Pork, where tender shreds of slow-cooked pork dance with a symphony of sweet and savory flavors.

This mouthwatering delicacy is a testament to the art of flavor balance, as the succulent pork is infused with a secret blend of ingredients that will transport your taste buds to new heights of culinary bliss.

Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the world of Café Rio, prepare to embark on a flavor adventure that will leave you craving more with every bite.

Get ready to savor the irresistible allure of Café Rio Sweet Pork like never before.

cafe rio sweet pork recipe tacos

3 pounds boneless Pork Roast
3 cups Coca-Cola (regular, not diet)
3/4 cup Brown Sugar
10 oz. can red Enchilada Sauce
2 cloves minced garlic
4 oz. can diced Green Chilies
1 cup Coke (regular, not diet)
3/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Marinate your pork roast overnight in a bowl or sealable plastic bag with the Coca-Cola and Brown Sugar to give it an amazing flavor! Let it sit for at least two hours if you don’t have the time to wait overnight.
  2. pork shoulder with coke in instant pot

  3. Once marinated, transfer the marinated pork and accompanying liquid to the instant pot or pressure cooker, and cook for 45 minutes. Allow the instant pot to slow release the pressure.

    If you don’t have an Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker, put all the ingredients into a crock pot and cook on low for 8 hours or cook on high for 4 hours.

  4. Remove the meat from the liquid and discard the liquid.
  5. cooked pork shoulder on plate ready to be shredded

  6. Then carefully shred the meat with two large forks.
  7. shredding cooked pork shoulder on cutting board

  8. If you have an Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker, place the shredded pork back in the pot and add in the enchilada sauce, garlic, green chilies, Coke and brown sugar.
  9. shredded pork with enchilada sauce green chilies brown sugar in pressure cooker

  10. Cook under pressure for 15 minutes and then let it slow release. If using a crockpot, cook for an additional 45-60 minutes.

    juicy homemade sweet pork recipe
    If there is excess liquid after cooking, drain some off before serving.

  11. drained sweet pork in bowl

  12. Serve your Copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork with your favorite Latin dishes such as rice, beans or tacos! Enjoy!

cafe rio sweet pork tacos

Nutrition

One serving of Copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork contains approximately 270 calories, 28 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of fat and 25 grams of protein.

This dish is a great source of lean protein, with the pork roast providing high-quality, complete proteins.

The pork also provides B vitamins for energy production, along with iron and zinc for immune system support.

The carbohydrates in this recipe come from the Coca-Cola and Brown Sugar which help to sweeten up the dish and add complexity to its flavor profile.

The fat content in this recipe comes from the small amount of oil used during cooking and the Green Chilies which add a bit of heat to the dish.

In addition to these nutrient sources, this Cafe Rio sweet pork recipe also contains dietary fiber from the pork roast as well as vitamins A and C from both the enchilada sauce and green chilies.

copycat cafe rio sweet pork tortilla salad with rice

Substitutions

While the cafe Rio sweet pork recipe has its specific ingredients, there are some substitution options available based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability:

  1. Pork Roast: You can substitute boneless pork shoulder or pork butt for the pork roast.
  2. Coca-Cola: If you prefer to avoid using soda or want a healthier alternative, you can substitute it with apple juice, pineapple juice, or even chicken broth for added flavor.
  3. Brown Sugar: Substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar, maple syrup, honey, or a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
  4. Red Enchilada Sauce: If you don’t have red enchilada sauce, you can use homemade or store-bought salsa, tomato sauce, or tomato puree as a replacement.
  5. Minced Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder as a substitute if needed.
  6. Green Chilies: If you can’t find green chilies, you can use diced jalapenos, poblano peppers, or Anaheim peppers for a similar flavor.

Remember, substitutions may alter the taste slightly, so it’s a good idea to adjust the seasonings accordingly and taste as you go. Feel free to experiment and customize the recipe to your liking or dietary needs.
bowl of homemade cafe rio sweet pork

Storage instructions

This homemade Café Rio Sweet Pork dish can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. To extend its shelf life, it can also be frozen and kept for up to three months. When reheating the pork, ensure that it is heated through thoroughly before consuming.

If you are freezing the dish, we recommend dividing it into individual servings first as this will make thawing and reheating quicker and easier when needed.

Instant Pot/ Pressure Cooker Satisfaction

This sweet pork cafe Rio recipe is a great way to enjoy some Latin flavors in the comfort of your own home. With only five main ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and easily with either an Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker.

Not to mention, it’s packed full of lean protein, B vitamins for energy production, iron and zinc for immune system support plus dietary fiber from the pork roast as well as vitamins A and C from both the enchilada sauce and green chilies!

We hope you enjoyed making this delicious meal at home. Please leave us a comment below about what other dishes you would like to see recreated using an Instant Pot/Pressure cooker!
instant pot with homemade cafe rio sweet pork

Recipe FAQs

 Is this Copycat Cafe Rio Sweet Pork recipe keto friendly?

No, the Copycat Café Rio Sweet Pork recipe is not keto-friendly due to the high levels of carbohydrates from the Coca-Cola and Brown Sugar.

This dish contains approximately 28 grams of carbohydrates per serving. If you are looking for a keto-friendly variant, please look for other recipes or alternate ingredients that do not contain these types of carbohydrates.

What is Café Rio Sweet Pork?

 Café Rio Sweet Pork is a popular dish known for its tender, slow-cooked shredded pork that is sweet and savory in flavor.

How do you make Café Rio Sweet Pork?

To make Cafe Rio Sweet Pork recipe, you typically cook a boneless pork roast with Coca-Cola, brown sugar, red enchilada sauce, minced garlic, green chilies, and additional brown sugar for added sweetness.

What ingredients are used in Café Rio Sweet Pork?

The main ingredients in Café Rio Sweet Pork are boneless pork roast, Coca-Cola (regular, not diet), brown sugar, red enchilada sauce, minced garlic, green chilies, and additional brown sugar.

Can I make Café Rio Sweet Pork in a slow cooker?

Yes, the recipe for Cafe Rio Sweet Pork can easily be adapted in a slow cooker by adjusting the cooking time to 4-5 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low.

Why doesn’t diet coke work in the recipe for Cafe Rio sweet pork?

Diet Coke may not work in the recipe for Café Rio sweet pork due to its artificial sweeteners and flavor profile.

The original recipe calls for the richness and depth of flavor provided by regular Coke or a similar cola.

Diet Coke lacks the same sugar content and can have a different taste, which may alter the overall taste and texture of the sweet pork dish.

It’s best to stick to the recommended ingredients to achieve the desired flavor and consistency.

How long does it take to cook this Cafe Rio sweet pork recipe?

The cooking time for Café Rio Sweet Pork varies depending on the method used. Typically, it takes several hours to cook the pork until it is tender and easily shreddable.

Can I use a substitute for Coca-Cola in the recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different cola or soda brands to achieve a similar flavor profile. However, keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the recipe for cafe Rio sweet pork?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spiciness of Café Rio Sweet Pork by adding more or fewer green chilies or by using mild or hot enchilada sauce based on your preference.

What are some serving suggestions for Café Rio Sweet Pork?

The recipe for Cafe Rio Sweet Pork can be served in various ways, such as in burritos, tacos, salads, or as a filling for sandwiches.
It pairs well with rice, beans, fresh vegetables, and toppings like guacamole and sour cream.

Can I make Café Rio Sweet Pork ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes, Café Rio Sweet Pork can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed. This dish often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld.

Is Cafe Rio Sweet Pork suitable for freezing and reheating later?

Yes, Café Rio Sweet Pork can be frozen for later use. It is recommended to store it in airtight containers or freezer bags, and when reheating, ensure it is fully heated through to maintain its texture and flavor.

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Love this Copycat Cafe Rio Sweet Pork Instant Pot Recipe? Pin it!

The recipe for Café Rio Sweet Pork starts with a succulent pork roast, slow-cooked to perfection in a blend of flavorful ingredients.

A combination of brown sugar, garlic, salsa, and spices creates a sweet and tangy glaze that coats the tender meat. After shredding the pork, it is simmered in the glaze to absorb all the delicious flavors.

The result is a melt-in-your-mouth pork that is incredibly versatile, whether used in tacos, burritos, salads, or bowls. This crowd-pleasing recipe captures the essence of Café Rio’s signature sweet pork and is sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

sweet pork cafe rio made in instant pot or pressure cooker

Café Rio Sweet Pork Instant Pot Recipe- Print Now

bowl of homemade cafe rio sweet pork
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Sweet Pork (Café Rio) made in Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker

Budget101.com by Melissa 'Liss' Burnell
Café Rio Sweet Pork is a delectable dish featuring slow-cooked, tender shredded pork infused with a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. Made with ingredients like Coca-Cola, brown sugar, red enchilada sauce, and green chilies, it's a crowd-pleasing favorite known for its versatility and mouthwatering taste.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Marinate 2 hours
Course Copycat ~ Clone, Dinner, Main Course, MYO, Potluck, supper
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 354 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds boneless Pork Roast
  • 3 cups Coca-Cola (regular, not diet)
  • ¾ cup Brown Sugar
  • 10 oz. red Enchilada Sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 4 oz. Green Chilies (diced)
  • 1 cup Coke (regular, not diet)
  • ¾ cup brown sugar

Instructions
 

Instructions:

  • Place Pork Roast in a tight bowl or sealable plastic bag with 3 cups of Coca-Cola (regular, not diet) and 3/4 cup of Brown Sugar.
    3 cups Coca-Cola
    3/4 cup Brown Sugar
    3 pounds boneless Pork Roast
  • Marinate pork overnight, or for at least 2 hours if you don’t have the chance.
  • After marinating, place the pork and liquid into an Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker and cook for 45 minutes, with a slow pressure release at the end. If you don’t have an Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker, put the pork and liquid into a crock pot or slow cooker for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
  • Remove the cooked Pork, discard the liquid, and shred the meat with two large forks.
  • Put the shredded Pork back in the pot and add the Enchilada Sauce, Garlic, Green Chilies, Coke and Brown Sugar.
    10 oz. red Enchilada Sauce
    2 cloves garlic
    4 oz. Green Chilies
    1 cup Coke
    3/4 cup brown sugar
  • Cook under pressure for 15 minutes, or for 30-60 more minutes in a crock pot. Drain excess liquid if necessary.
  • Serve with rice, beans, and in your favorite Latin dishes
Recipe Size Alteration Note

If you altered the ingedients above by doubling or tripling the recipe, you may also need to change the pan/dish size and adjust the cooking/baking time.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 354kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 31gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 86mgSodium: 327mgPotassium: 578mgFiber: 1gSugar: 43gVitamin A: 202IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 41mgIron: 1mgNet Carbs: 43g
Tried this recipe?Mention @Budget101com or tag #Budget101com!

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