Hey foodies! Brace yourselves for a mouthwatering journey as we delve into the heart of Mexican cuisine with the ultimate crowd-pleaser – Carnitas! 🌮🐖✨ Picture melt-in-your-mouth pork, perfectly crisped, and bursting with savory goodness. It’s a flavor fiesta you won’t want to miss. Ready to savor the magic of Carnitas? Let’s dive in! 🍽️🔥
Ingredients
4 lb boneless pork roast, (pork butt or pork shoulder)
3 Tbsp fine sea salt, (or 2 1/2 tsp table salt)
1 Tbsp ground black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 large yellow onion, diced
5 garlic cloves
4 Tbsp lime juice, (from 2 limes)
1/2 cup orange juice, (from 2 oranges)
1 cup chicken broth
2 bay leaves, optional
Instructions
Pat the pork dry with a paper towel.
Combine salt, pepper and dried oregano and rub pork with the seasoning.
In the slow cooker, add chopped onion, garlic cloves, broth, lime juice, orange juice, and bay leaves if using.
Add the pork to the slow cooker.
Cook on high for 5 hours or on low for 7-9 hours.
Remove the pork from the slow cooker and transfer it to a rimmed baking sheet.
Shredded the pork with two forks and drizzle the top with 1/2 cup of the slow cooker juices.
To get crispy edges, broil in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving: CALORIES: 405 | TOTAL FAT: 19g | SATURATED FAT: 7g | TRANS FAT: 0g | CHOLESTEROL: 138mg | SODIUM: 1674mg | CARBOHYDRATES: 7g | SUGAR: 3g | FIBER: 1 | PROTEIN: 50g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different cut of pork for Carnitas?
Yes, you can use pork butt or pork shoulder interchangeably for Carnitas. Both cuts are known for their tenderness and flavor, making them ideal for slow cooking.
Can I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste preferences?
Absolutely! The seasoning provided in the recipe is a guideline, and you can adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and dried oregano to your liking.
Feel free to experiment and add other spices or herbs if desired.
Can I cook Carnitas in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for oven cooking.
After combining the ingredients in a suitable baking dish, cover it tightly with foil and bake at a low temperature, around 325°F (160°C), for several hours until the pork is tender and easily shreddable.
Can I make Carnitas ahead of time and reheat them later?
Certainly! Carnitas can be made in advance and reheated when needed.
After shredding the pork, store it in an airtight container with some of the cooking juices to keep it moist.
Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through, and then broil for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
What are some serving suggestions for Carnitas?
Carnitas can be served in various ways. Traditionally, they are often enjoyed in tacos or burritos with toppings such as diced onions, cilantro, salsa, and a squeeze of lime.
They can also be served over rice or in sandwiches.
Get creative and use them in your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes!
Can I marinate the pork before cooking?
While this recipe doesn’t call for marinating the pork, you can marinate it if desired.
A simple marinade with citrus juice, garlic, and spices can enhance the flavor.
Marinate the pork for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking for even more flavorful Carnitas.
Can I use a different type of meat for Carnitas?
While pork is the traditional choice for Carnitas, you can experiment with other meats such as beef or chicken if you prefer.
Adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly and tender.
How can I store and reheat Carnitas?
To store Carnitas, let them cool to room temperature and then transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag.
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet on the stovetop, microwave them, or even heat them in the oven until heated through.
