Crispy Pork Carnitas Recipe

I’ve sung the praises of Mexican food many times before and these pork carnitas are no different. Made from a slow-cooked pork shoulder simmered in delicious spices it’s a family favorite. My version is a twist on traditional pork carnitas recipes and it’s delicious in tacos, Chipotle-style burrito bowlsMore.

What are Pork Carnitas?

Simply put it’s the Mexican version of pulled pork. Instead of slow cooking the meat, there are several additional steps. Mexican carnitas is traditionally cooked in lime or orange juice with spices like cumin, oregano or bay leaves.

Other traditional recipes cook pork in a vat full of lard and spices. Although I don’t mind lard or other animal fats as they are healthy, the mess can be a problem. It can be dangerous, especially if there are children running around.

You’ll find a few unconventional ingredients in my version, including barbecue sauce and mustard.

Pork Carnitas – Different Ways of Cooking It

For the best carnitas, I prefer using my pressure cooker since it’s fast, easy, and low fuss. You can also use a slow cooker or braising. Dutch ovenThis will also work. Once the pork is cooked through and fall-apart tender it is placed under the broiler for caramelization.

How to Finish Pork Carnitas

You can choose from a variety of methods to get crispy bits on a juicy roast pork. I do mine in the broiler because it’s quick and easy. You can also sauté the meat with olive oil or lard on a skillet. You can also use some of the leftover cooking liquid to keep the meat moist while it’s frying/broiling. The juices will concentrate in the final cooking step, adding even more flavor.

How to Use Pork Carnitas

You can choose from a wide variety of delicious dishes. I prepare my proteins in large quantities to be used in a variety of recipes, including those for dinner and lunch. Try this recipe for carnitas on Top of nachos in carnitas tacos, or stuffed into quesadillas. Here are some topping options for the dish.

It is also delicious on rice bowls, salads and other dishes. It’s great on eggs and veggies for breakfast.

Carnitas: The Best Meat to Use

You can use either a boneless pork butt or a bony one for this recipe. You can find pork shoulders, which are essentially the exact same. I don’t recommend pork tenderloin in this recipe though. Pork butt has a higher fat content and can withstand the longer cooking time better than loin. Fat is essential to a tender and juicy result!

Can I freeze this?

Yes! To me, any dish that I can prepare in advance and then reheat is a great idea. It doesn’t work that great if you complete the whole recipe and freeze the finished results though. Slow-cooking the meat is the best way to keep pork carnitas. Skip the broiler and just freeze the shreds. The cooking juices can be saved in the freezer to be reheated.

When you’re ready for pork carnitas thaw the meat, Add some brothReheat in the skillet. You can finish the dish with hot oil either in a skillet, or under the broiler. Store any leftovers in a tightly sealed container.

Pork Carnitas Recipe

This recipe is for seasoned shredded pork, with crispy bits and ends. It’s delicious on its own or with avocado, onions, and lime juice.

Servings

Instructions

• Slice the pork into chunks of 3 inches and place in a bowl.

• Rub the mustard on the pieces of ham.

• In a small mixing bowl, combine the coconut sugar, chili pepper, paprika and cumin. Also, add kosher salt.

• Sprinkle the pork all over with the seasoning mix, making sure to turn it around so that you get it on every side.

• Slice the onion, then add it to your Instant Pot along the with broth, apple vinegar, and BBQ sauce.

• Stir the mixture.

• Add the seasoned beef to the Instant Pot.

• Cook at high pressure (65 minutes) and then let the natural pressure out.

• Allow the pork to cool down enough to handle before transferring it to a large baking pan.

• Once the meat has cooled, shred it and spread evenly on the baking sheet. Discard the bone, if any.

• If you have too much meat to fit on one baking sheet, work in batches. Work in batches if there’s too much for one baking sheet.

• Serve over rice bowls, salads or tortillas.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts

Pork Carnitas Recipe

Amount per serving (5 oz).

Calories 251
Calories From Fat 90

% Daily Value*

The Fat 10g15%

Saturated fat 3g19%

Trans Fat 0.1g

Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid 1g

Monounsaturated Fatty Acid 4g

Cholesterol 91mg30%

Sodium 944mg41%

Potassium 666mg19%

Carbohydrates 10g3%

Fiber 2g8%

Sugar 6g7%

Protein 30g60%

Vitamin A 1086IU22%

Vitamin C 2mg2%

Calcium 55mg6%

Iron 3mg17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Notes

• Leftover cooking liquid can be used to make a delicious soup base.
• Double the ingredients for seasoning if you want a bigger pork butt.
• Slow cookers can be used to cook for up to 8 hours on low.
• To cook in a Dutch oven, cook at 300° for 4-5 hours.

Have you ever had pork carnitas before? What’s your favorite way to serve it? Comment and share your favorite way to serve it!