Best 3 Easy Pork Carnitas Recipes

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Carnitas, a traditional Mexican dish, is a delectable treat that tantalizes taste buds with its succulent shredded pork. Originating in the state of Michoacan, this culinary masterpiece has gained immense popularity worldwide. Carnitas is typically made with pork shoulder, which is braised or roasted until it melts in your mouth. The result is tender, juicy meat with a crispy, caramelized exterior. This versatile dish can be served in various ways, from tacos and burritos to tortas and enchiladas.

This article presents a collection of easy-to-follow carnitas recipes that cater to different preferences and cooking methods. Whether you prefer the classic stovetop approach, the convenience of a slow cooker, or the smoky goodness of a grill, we have a recipe that will satisfy your cravings. Each recipe provides step-by-step instructions, along with tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time. So, prepare to embark on a culinary journey to savor the authentic flavors of carnitas in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

CARNITAS EASY SHREDDED PORK



Carnitas Easy Shredded Pork image

A great make ahead recipe for tamales or tacos. No slow cooking because this recipe used Trader Joe's Traditional Carnitas a Mexican oven roasted pork. Just shred and add to the rest of the ingredients. For a little extra boast add some of Recipe #15301.

Provided by Rita1652

Categories     Pork

Time 35m

Yield 4 cups, 24 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 8

12 ounces oven roasted cooked pork, Shredded
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 large vidalia onion, diced
1 jalapeno, minced
5 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons coriander
2 teaspoons cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano

Steps:

  • In a pan heat oil then add the last 6 ingredients and cook over medium heat till softened about 20 minutes. Stirring every couple minutes.
  • Mix in shredded pork.
  • This can be made ahead up three month in freezer container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Fill your favorite wraps, corn or flour tortillas or tacos garnish as you please with sour cream, salsa, avocado -- .

EASY PORK CARNITAS



Easy Pork Carnitas image

This authentic Mexican pork carnitas recipe takes very little effort and uses only a handful of ingredients. Just the way we make it in Mexico: lots of flavor and no fuss. [Recipe originally submitted to Allrecipes.com.mx]

Provided by ladoƱa

Categories     World Cuisine Recipes     Latin American     Mexican

Time 1h25m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 3

1 (5 pound) boneless pork shoulder
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon safflower oil

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  • Trim excess fat from pork shoulder and cut pork into 2-inch cubes. Season with salt and pepper on all sides.
  • Heat a cast iron braiser over medium-high heat. Pour oil into the pot and brown pork on all sides, about 10 minutes. Cover with the lid.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until pork is crispy on the outside and soft, but fully cooked, on the inside, about 1 hour.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 278.4 calories, Cholesterol 106.9 mg, Fat 13.7 g, Protein 36.4 g, SaturatedFat 4.3 g, Sodium 92.7 mg

EASY CARNITAS (PULLED PORK)



Easy Carnitas (Pulled Pork) image

Why go to your local taco stop when you can make your own authentic carnitas at home. Very simple, just throw ingredients in pan and put in oven. Taste delicious with warm corn tortillas, chopped onions and chopped cilantro.

Provided by Chef Sarita in Aust

Categories     Pork

Time 1h10m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 1/2-2 lbs boneless pork (butt, roast or pork for carnitas (cut into 1 1/2-2 in cubed chunks )
1/4 cup orange peel
1/2 cup sliced white onion
2 -3 tablespoons cumin powder
salt
pepper

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 375. In a bowl, mix pork, orange zest/peel, cumin (to your taste), and salt to taste. Place seasoned pork in large rectangular baking pan and top with onions.
  • Bake covered with aluminium paper for about 1 hr 45 minutes. During the cooking time, about every 30 mins or so, check on the pork and turn to prevent the pork from burning. To creat a crispy texture to pork, bake in oven 15 min more UNCOVERED and turn once so that all sides get crispy texture.
  • Shred and serve with warm tortillas.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 392.9, Fat 26.1, SaturatedFat 9, Cholesterol 114, Sodium 99.4, Carbohydrate 4.8, Fiber 1.2, Sugar 0.9, Protein 33

Tips:

  • For the best carnitas, use a pork shoulder roast with a good amount of marbling. This will help the meat stay moist and flavorful during cooking.
  • Be sure to season the pork shoulder generously with salt, pepper, and cumin. This will help to create a delicious crust on the outside of the meat.
  • Braising the pork shoulder in a slow cooker or Dutch oven is the best way to ensure that it cooks evenly and remains tender. Be sure to add enough liquid to cover the meat completely.
  • Once the pork shoulder is cooked, shred it with two forks. This will make it easier to serve and will help to soak up the delicious juices.
  • Carnitas can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, beans, tortillas, and salsa. They are also a great addition to tacos, burritos, and nachos.

Conclusion:

Carnitas is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you are serving it as a main course or as part of a larger meal, carnitas are sure to be a hit. So next time you are looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!

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