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Carnitas

Carnitas
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Carnitas is a tender and flavorful slow-cooked pork recipe perfect as a taco filling or for burritos, bowls, and more. The pork shoulder is seasoned with aromatic spices, slowly simmered with fresh citrus and aromatics, then shredded and crisped for a delicious contrast of textures. This recipe offers a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience with bold, savory flavors and a perfect crispy finish that makes every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 lbs pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (for smoky spice)
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice (for sweet and tangy flavor)
  • Lean pork loin (for a healthier option)
  • Fresh cilantro and thyme (added near the end for herbal freshness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pork: Begin by trimming any excess fat from your pork shoulder, then cut it into large chunks to ensure even cooking and easy shredding later on.
  2. Season and Sear: Generously season the pork chunks with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Heat a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven and sear the pork on all sides until golden brown—this step locks in the flavors and creates a flavorful crust.
  3. Add Aromatics and Liquid: Add chopped onions, garlic cloves, bay leaves, and pour in fresh orange juice along with a splash of water or broth. The citrus tenderizes the meat and balances the richness with a bright, fresh taste.
  4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the pot and simmer gently on low heat for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the pork is so tender you can easily shred it with forks. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  5. Shred and Crisp: Once tender, remove the pork from the liquid and shred it finely. Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and roast it in a hot oven or crisp it in a skillet until the edges are beautifully caramelized and crispy, providing a delightful texture contrast.

Notes

  • Choose pork shoulder for best flavor and tenderness due to its fat content and connective tissue.
  • Use fresh-squeezed orange juice rather than bottled for superior flavor and tenderizing effects.
  • Slow, low heat is critical to achieve tender, flavorful meat.
  • Reserve some cooking liquid to moisten the pork while crisping or in sauces.
  • For extra crispiness, crisp the pork twice—first in a skillet, then under the broiler.

Nutrition

Keywords: Carnitas, slow cooked pork, Mexican tacos, shredded pork, crispy pork, pork shoulder recipe, taco filling

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/carnitas/