Picture succulent pork slow-cooked to perfection, infused with aromatic spices and fresh orange juice, then shredded and crisped to golden-brown deliciousness. This Pork Carnitas recipe captures the essence of Mexican comfort food, delivering a mouthwatering combination of juicy tenderness and crispy edges. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or even over rice, this dish is incredibly versatile. Its bold flavors and effortless preparation make it a go-to for gatherings or weeknight dinners. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have an authentic, restaurant-quality dish to enjoy at home.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 kg (4 lbs) pork shoulder (skinless, boneless)
- 2 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, deseeded and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup fresh orange juice (from about 2 oranges)
- Rub:
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
- Rinse and pat dry the pork shoulder. Rub it thoroughly with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix the oregano, cumin, and olive oil. Apply the rub evenly to the pork.
- Place the pork into a slow cooker, fat side up. Top with onion, jalapeño, and garlic. Pour the orange juice over the pork.
- Cook on low for 10 hours or on high for 7 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly before shredding with two forks.
- Optional: Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid and reserve about 2 cups of the broth.
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over high heat. Spread shredded pork in the pan, drizzle some reserved broth, and cook until the juices evaporate and the pork is crispy on one side. Flip briefly to sear the other side. Repeat in batches.
- Serve hot in tacos, burritos, or as desired, drizzled with remaining juices.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 hours | Total Time: 10 hours, 5 minutes
Kcal: 578 kcal per serving | Servings: 10–12 servings
The Irresistible Allure of Mexican Pork Carnitas
Pork Carnitas, often hailed as Mexico’s version of pulled pork, is a culinary treasure that embodies the rich, flavorful traditions of Mexican cooking. The name “Carnitas” translates to “little meats,” and the dish lives up to its name with tender, shredded pork that’s infused with aromatic spices and crisped to perfection. It’s no wonder Carnitas has become a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, finding its way into tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and even rice bowls.
This particular recipe takes the traditional approach of slow cooking pork shoulder and enhances it with a modern twist, combining the simplicity of a slow cooker with the authentic flavors of orange juice, jalapeño, and a carefully crafted spice rub. The result is a dish that’s versatile, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for home cooks looking to bring restaurant-quality meals to their tables.
The Secret to Perfect Carnitas
One of the reasons this recipe stands out is its meticulous attention to detail. Unlike other pulled pork recipes, Carnitas aims to achieve the perfect balance between juiciness and crispiness. This is achieved by slow-cooking the pork until it’s tender enough to shred and then finishing it in a hot skillet to create those irresistible golden-brown edges. This dual cooking method ensures every bite is a delightful mix of textures.
The use of orange juice is another standout feature. While it might seem unconventional, the juice serves multiple purposes: it adds subtle sweetness, tenderizes the meat, and transforms into a rich, flavorful broth during cooking. This broth not only enhances the pork but also keeps it moist and flavorful when reheated, making Carnitas an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
Why Pork Shoulder?
Pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, is the ideal cut for Carnitas because of its high fat content and rich flavor. The fat renders down during the slow cooking process, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful. Unlike leaner cuts like pork tenderloin, which can dry out over extended cooking times, pork shoulder thrives under low and slow heat, becoming tender and succulent. This recipe also allows flexibility with pork cuts. While bone-in pork shoulder works beautifully, a boneless option is just as effective and easier to handle.
The Benefits of Making Carnitas
- Versatility in Serving: Carnitas is a multi-purpose dish that can elevate a variety of meals. Whether you’re making tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, sliders, or even a hearty rice bowl, Carnitas fits seamlessly into any recipe. It’s also a hit at taco bars or buffet-style gatherings where guests can build their own plates.
- Meal Prep Champion: Carnitas is a meal prepper’s dream. Cook a big batch, divide it into portions, and freeze it for later use. The dish reheats beautifully and retains its flavor and texture, especially when you save the cooking juices to drizzle over reheated portions.
- Nutritional Benefits: While Carnitas is undoubtedly a comfort food, it also provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats. Pair it with fresh vegetables, avocado, and whole-grain tortillas to create a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Pork shoulder is an affordable cut of meat that’s easy to find. With a little time and a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
- Scalable Recipe: Hosting a large gathering? This recipe is easy to scale up to feed a crowd. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal prep.
Authenticity Meets Simplicity
While traditional Carnitas recipes often involve cooking pork in a large cauldron of lard, this recipe adapts the method for the modern home cook. By using a slow cooker or Instant Pot, you can achieve the same rich flavors and tender texture without the need for excessive amounts of fat. This makes the dish more approachable and healthier while still maintaining its authentic taste.
The seasoning blend of oregano, cumin, and olive oil is intentionally kept simple to let the pork’s natural flavors shine. This subtle seasoning ensures the Carnitas can be used in a wide variety of dishes without overwhelming other ingredients.
Tips for the Best Carnitas Experience
- Don’t Skip the Crisping: The crispy bits are what make Carnitas truly special. Once the pork is shredded, pan-frying it in batches ensures every piece has a golden, caramelized crust that adds incredible depth of flavor.
- Save the Juices: The cooking liquid is liquid gold! Use it to drizzle over the pork before serving, or save it for reheating leftovers to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Customize Your Tacos: While Carnitas tacos are traditionally simple, with just a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of onion and cilantro, feel free to get creative. Add pickled red onions, avocado slices, or a dollop of crema for an extra layer of flavor.
- Experiment with Cooking Methods: While the slow cooker is the easiest option, this recipe also works in an oven or pressure cooker. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for consistent results.
Perfect Pairings for Carnitas
The beauty of Carnitas lies in its versatility, but it truly shines when paired with the right sides and toppings. Here are a few suggestions to complete your meal:
- Taco Fixings: Diced avocado, pico de gallo, crumbled queso fresco, and warm tortillas are classic accompaniments.
- Rice and Beans: Serve Carnitas over Mexican red rice or alongside refried beans for a hearty and satisfying plate.
- Fresh Salsas: A zesty tomatillo salsa or smoky chipotle salsa pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the pork.
- Vegetable Sides: Grilled corn, sautéed peppers, or a fresh cabbage slaw add a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness.
A Dish Worth Sharing
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving an authentic Mexican meal, Pork Carnitas delivers on every front. Its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, crispy edges, and bold flavors make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And the best part? This recipe proves that achieving restaurant-quality results at home is easier than you think.
Conclusion
Carnitas isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. The sizzle of the pork in the skillet, the aroma of the spices, and the first bite of perfectly balanced juicy and crispy pork – it’s all part of what makes this recipe so unforgettable. With this Mexican Pork Carnitas recipe, you’re not just cooking a meal – you’re creating a moment. One bite, and you’ll understand why this dish has been cherished for generations and remains a favorite for food lovers around the world.