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Can't resist the allure of smoky, tender carnitas? I'm with you! I've perfected my own spin on this classic dish, swiftly prepared in a pressure cooker. Picture savory chunks of pork shoulder, infused with a medley of spices and juices. One bite, and you'll be transported straight to a bustling Mexican street market. This isn't just carnitas—it's a culinary journey! You'll be eager to try, and believe me, every bite is worth the adventure.
Ingredients for Delicious Pressure Cooker Carnitas
- Pork shoulder: Tender and flavorful meat that becomes melt-in-your-mouth after being cooked in the pressure cooker.
- Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth of flavor to the carnitas, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Garlic: Infuses a rich and aromatic taste into the carnitas, elevating the dish with its pungent flavor profile.
- Cumin: Provides a warm and earthy flavor that complements the pork and enhances the overall seasoning of the carnitas.
- Oregano: Adds a hint of freshness and a subtle herbaceous note to the carnitas, balancing out the other flavors.
- Chili powder: Brings a mild heat and smokiness to the carnitas, giving it a flavorful kick without being overpowering.
- Orange juice: Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to the carnitas, helping to tenderize the meat and brighten the flavors.
- Lime juice: Provides a zesty and tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the pork, adding a refreshing element.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the carnitas with savory depth and richness, creating a flavorful base for the meat to cook in.
Essential Tools for Making Carnitas in a Pressure Cooker
- Pressure cooker: Speeds up cooking time and helps to tenderize the pork shoulder efficiently.
- Knife: Essential for cutting the pork shoulder into manageable chunks before cooking.
Pressure Cooker Carnitas Recipe: Juicy & Tender
This Pressure Cooker Carnitas recipe yields juicy and tender pork, perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls. It's a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful Mexican dish.
Equipment
- Pressure Cooker
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder cut into chunks
- 1 onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup orange juice
- 0.25 cup lime juice
- 0.25 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
- Season the pork with cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seasoned pork in the pressure cooker.
- Add the onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth.
- Close the pressure cooker lid and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.
- Once done, release the pressure naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release.
- Shred the pork using two forks.
- Optional: crisp up the carnitas in a skillet for a few minutes.
- Serve in tacos, burritos, or bowls.
Notes:
For extra flavor and texture, crisp up the shredded carnitas in a hot skillet for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition value:
Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 30gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 420mgPotassium: 620mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg
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Prep and Storage Tips for Pressure Cooker Carnitas
Make Ahead Instructions
- Cook the carnitas as per the recipe instructions.
- Let the cooked carnitas cool to room temperature.
- Store the carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Allow the carnitas to cool completely.
- Place the carnitas in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Label the container with the date.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
When making these pressure cooker carnitas, try adding a splash of cola to the cooking liquid for a hint of sweetness and caramelization.
Common Questions About Making Carnitas in a Pressure Cooker
FAQ:
How long does it take to cook the carnitas in the pressure cooker?
The carnitas cook in the pressure cooker on high pressure for 45 minutes.
Can I skip crisping up the carnitas in a skillet?
Yes, crisping up the carnitas in a skillet is optional.
What type of pork should I use for this recipe?
You should use pork shoulder, cut into chunks, for this carnitas recipe.
Do I need to marinate the pork before cooking?
No, you do not need to marinate the pork before cooking in the pressure cooker.
What can I serve the carnitas with?
You can serve the carnitas in tacos, burritos, or bowls.
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