Best 2 Simple Carnitas Recipes

Carnitas, a traditional Mexican dish, is a delectable pork dish that is slow-cooked in oil or lard until it becomes tender and falls apart easily. This succulent dish is characterized by its robust flavors and crispy texture, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey as we explore the diverse recipes featured in this article, ranging from classic carnitas to modern variations that showcase the versatility of this beloved dish.

Pork shoulder, the primary ingredient in carnitas, is seasoned with an array of spices and herbs, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The slow-cooking process allows the meat to absorb these flavors, resulting in a tender and juicy texture. Whether you prefer the traditional method of cooking carnitas in a Dutch oven or the convenience of using a slow cooker, the recipes provided cater to various cooking preferences.

This article offers a comprehensive guide to preparing carnitas, ensuring a successful culinary experience. From selecting the right cut of pork to achieving the perfect balance of spices, each step is explained in detail, empowering you to create this mouthwatering dish at home. Additionally, vegetarian and vegan alternatives are included, providing options for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Whether you're a seasoned cook looking to expand your culinary repertoire or a novice eager to explore the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine, this article has something for everyone. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your taste buds, and let's delve into the world of carnitas, one delicious recipe at a time.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

CARNITAS, SIMPLE BUT AMAZING!

Carnitas, Simple but Amazing! image

This is a simple yet amazingly delicious recipe. Yes it's a lot like others posted on the site, yet this is the simplest and if cooked according to the directions you'll have everyone raving about it! Everyone will want to take some leftovers.

Provided by tasmith1

Categories < 4 Hours

Time 2h10m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

4 lbs boneless country-style ribs
2 cups water
1 1/2 cups orange juice
6 garlic cloves, chopped
2 teaspoons sea salt, more to taste
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 (16 ounce) jar tomatillo salsa

Steps:

Cut the Pork crosswise into at least thirds. Combine and mix Pork, water, Orange Juice, Garlic, Salt and Orange Zest in a Deep very large skillet or a Dutch Oven. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and Simmer for at least 1 hr and 45 minutes or until the pork is so tender that it is falling apart. Stir and add more water as necessary to keep the pork partially submerged, although I've never had to do this.
Transfer to a skillet if you used a Dutch Oven. You may need to drain off some of the liquid at this point. You will want to break up the Pork into small pieces and boil off the remaining liquid until the pork starts to brown and get crispy edges.
Serve with Tomatillo Salsa (Recipe #97531 is fantastic!), Corn Tortillas and whatever other fixings you like.

SIMPLE CARNITAS

Simple Carnitas image

This the easiest recipe for tasty carnitas. Once cooked, the meat can also be shredded and mixed with BBQ sauce for incredible pulled pork sandwiches, or pan fried in a little oil until crisp on the outside.

Provided by Ken from CA

Categories World Cuisine Recipes Latin American Mexican

Time 3h

Yield 10

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

1 (3 1/2) pound boneless pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into 2 inch chunks
2 oranges, quartered
1 large white onion, quartered
6 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
¼ cup kosher salt
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
2 bay leaves

Steps:

Place the pork shoulder, oranges, onion, garlic, kosher salt, cumin, black peppercorns, and bay leaves into a large Dutch oven. Add water to cover. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for 10 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the top. Cover loosely, and simmer until the meat is tender, about 1 1/2 hours. Allow the pork to cool, covered, in the broth for 1 hour. Shred the meat with two forks.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 187.9 calories, Carbohydrate 6.6 g, Cholesterol 62.5 mg, Fat 9.6 g, Fiber 1.3 g, Protein 18.4 g, SaturatedFat 3.4 g, Sodium 2331.5 mg, Sugar 3.8 g

Tips:

Choose a pork shoulder/butt roast with good marbling for more flavorful carnitas.
Use a Dutch oven or slow cooker to cook the pork for tender, fall-apart results.
Add a combination of spices, herbs, and citrus juices to the cooking liquid for a flavorful marinade.
Cook the pork until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
After cooking, shred the pork using two forks or a meat shredder for easy serving.
Serve the carnitas with your favorite toppings, such as guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese.

Conclusion:

Carnitas is a versatile and delicious Mexican dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you're making tacos, burritos, or nachos, carnitas is a surefire crowd-pleaser. With its tender, flavorful meat and customizable toppings, carnitas is a dish that everyone will love. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give this simple carnitas recipe a try.