Best Carnitas Recipe: Juicy and Savory Slow-Cooked Pork Carnitas that Will Leave You Wanting More

Get ready to indulge in the best carnitas you’ve ever tasted. Our recipe for slow-cooked, savory pork carnitas will take your taste buds on a journey to Mexico.

This carnitas recipe is an authentic and delicious take on the traditional Mexican dish. The recipe involves a combination of cooking the pork in a Dutch oven and finishing it off in the oven to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. The result is a mouthwatering and tender pork that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a main course with rice and beans. This recipe is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients, making it a great option for a quick and tasty meal any day of the week. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this carnitas recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a new favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Preparation:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the orange juice, lime juice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, and oregano.
2. Add the pork to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels.
4. Add the pork to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Transfer the pork to a slow cooker and add the bay leaves and the remaining marinade.
6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pork from the slow cooker and transfer it to a baking sheet. Shred the meat with two forks.
8. Preheat the broiler. Spread the shredded pork in a single layer on the baking sheet and broil for 5-10 minutes, until the edges are crispy.

Tips and Tricks:

• For best results, marinate the pork overnight to ensure maximum flavor.
• If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can also cook the pork in a Dutch oven or large pot on the stove over low heat for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender.

Variations:

• If you prefer spicier carnitas, you can add chopped jalapeño or chipotle peppers to the marinade.
• You can also add other seasonings like cinnamon, cloves, or chili powder to the marinade for a unique flavor profile.
• For a healthier option, you can use leaner cuts of pork or substitute with chicken or beef.

Homemade carnitas are a great way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish in the comfort of your own home. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can achieve perfect results every time. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a delicious meal, these savory and flavorful carnitas will surely impress your taste buds.