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Pork Carnitas are a game-changer for any meal. Imagine tender, juicy pork shoulder slow-cooked to perfection, then crisped up for that irresistible texture. The blend of orange juice, garlic, and cumin creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to beat. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or just on its own, this recipe is a must-try for any home cook looking to impress. Let's get cooking!
Pork Carnitas Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs cut into chunks pork shoulder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 large quartered onion
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Season the pork chunks with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
- In a Dutch oven, add the pork, garlic, orange juice, chicken broth, onion, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then cover and transfer to the oven.
- Cook for about 3.5 to 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
- Remove the pork from the liquid and shred with two forks.
- Heat a large skillet over high heat and add the shredded pork. Cook until the edges are crispy.
- Serve the carnitas in tacos, burritos, or bowls with your favorite toppings.
What You Will Need
Read more: Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Tacos Recipe
What you will need to make pork carnitas
Pork shoulder: This cut has the perfect fat content for tender, juicy carnitas that shred easily and crisp up beautifully.
Ground cumin and oregano: These spices add earthy, aromatic flavors essential for authentic Mexican taste.
Minced garlic: Provides a robust, savory depth that enhances the overall flavor profile of the carnitas.
Orange juice: Adds a subtle sweetness and acidity that helps tenderize the pork while balancing the savory spices.
Chicken broth: Keeps the pork moist during cooking and infuses it with rich, savory flavors.
Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base that complements the pork and other seasonings.
Bay leaves: Impart a subtle, herbal note that rounds out the flavor of the carnitas.
Tools and Instruments Needed
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Pork Carnitas Recipe
- Dutch oven: Essential for slow-cooking pork, ensuring even heat distribution and tender meat.
- Large skillet: Needed to crisp up the shredded pork, adding texture and flavor.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of spices and seasonings are crucial for balanced flavors.
- Tongs: Handy for turning and handling the pork chunks without losing juices.
- Forks: Used to shred the cooked pork into bite-sized pieces.
Pork Carnitas Recipe
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs Pork Shoulder cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Ground Cumin
- 1 tbsp Oregano
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 cup Orange Juice freshly squeezed
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 large Onion quartered
- 2 bay leaves Bay Leaves
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Season the pork chunks with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
- In a Dutch oven, add the pork, garlic, orange juice, chicken broth, onion, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then cover and transfer to the oven.
- Cook for about 3.5 to 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
- Remove the pork from the liquid and shred with two forks.
- Heat a large skillet over high heat and add the shredded pork. Cook until the edges are crispy.
- Serve the carnitas in tacos, burritos, or bowls with your favorite toppings.
Notes:
Read more: Carnitas Casserole Recipe
Nutrition value:
Keywords:
Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions
- Cook the pork as per the recipe.
- Shred the meat and let it cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet until crispy before serving.
Freezing Instructions
- After cooking and shredding, let the pork cool.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat in a skillet until crispy before serving.
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of coca-cola to the pork carnitas while they cook. It helps tenderize the meat and adds a subtle sweetness.
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