Pork Carnitas Recipe

This authentic pork carnitas recipe will bring a touch of Mexico to your home. It's a slow-cooked, flavorful dish where the pork is tender and rich in flavor. The process is easy but requires patience, making it perfect for a relaxed weekend cooking project.

Photos of Pork Carnitas Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe are fairly common, but there are a couple that may not be in your everyday pantry. The first is the pork butt, also known as Boston butt, which is a cut of pork that comes from the upper part of the shoulder. It's perfect for slow cooking as it becomes incredibly tender. The second ingredient is the fresh lime juice. Always opt for fresh squeezed over bottled, as it will give a much brighter and fresher flavor.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Pork Carnitas

Pork butt: This is the star of the show. It's a fatty cut of meat that becomes incredibly tender when cooked slowly.

Canola oil: Used for browning the pork, which develops deep, complex flavors.

Salt and pepper: These seasonings enhance the flavors of all other ingredients.

Cumin: A common spice in Mexican cooking, it adds a warm, earthy flavor.

Onion: It imparts a sweet and savory depth to the carnitas.

Bay leaves: These add a subtle layer of complexity to the flavor profile.

Dried oregano: This gives an herby flavor that's characteristic of carnitas.

Fresh lime juice: It adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the pork.

Chicken stock: This helps to keep the pork moist during slow cooking.

Orange: Half of this will be squeezed over the pork and the rest goes in with the rind for a hint of citrus undertone.

One reader, Gib Brady says:

This authentic pork carnitas recipe is a game-changer! The meat is incredibly tender and flavorful, and the citrusy notes from the orange and lime juice add a delightful twist. It's a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Mexican cuisine. I can't wait to make it again!

Gib Brady

Key Techniques for Authentic Pork Carnitas

How to brown the pork: In a large pot over medium heat, add canola oil. Season the pork with salt and pepper, then brown it in batches. Transfer the browned meat to a plate.

How to braise the pork: Combine the browned pork with the rest of the ingredients in the pot, including the orange rinds. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, uncovered. Once it simmers, cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Cook until the meat falls apart when prodded with a fork, about 3 hours.

How to degrease the braising liquid: Skim the fat from the braising liquid using a large spoon or a fat separator.

How to reheat the carnitas: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove the dish from the fridge, bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until juices are bubbling. Then switch the oven to broil and broil the meat for about 6 to 8 minutes until the top is well browned and slightly crisp.

How to adjust seasoning: Taste the carnitas and add additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.

How To Make Pork Carnitas

This pork carnitas recipe is a mixture of flavors: the hint of sweetness and tanginess from the oranges and lime and from different spices.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 3 hours

Total: 3 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4lbpork buttboneless, or boneless country ribs, fat trimmed and cut into 2-inch cubes
2tspcanola oilor other vegetable oil
1½tspsalt
¾tsppepper
1tspcuminground
1onionpeeled and quartered
2bay leaves
1tspdried oregano
2tbspfresh lime juice
2cupschicken stock
1orangemedium, quartered and juiced, keep the rinds

Instructions

Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and preheat to 300 degrees F. Heat a large pot over medium heat, add oil.
Season the meat with salt and pepper and brown it in batches. Transfer the browned meat to a plate.
After all the meat is browned, combine the meat with the rest of the ingredients in the pot, including the orange rinds. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, uncovered.
Once it simmers, cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Cook until the meat falls apart when prodded with a fork, about 3 hours.
Transfer the meat to a 9×13-inch dish. Degrease the braising liquid by skimming with a large spoon or using a fat separator.
Pour the remaining liquid over the meat. Cover the dish with foil and transfer to the fridge and chill overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove the dish from the fridge. Bake, uncovered for 30 minutes or until juices are bubbling. Switch the oven to broil.
The meat needs to broil for about 6 to 8 minutes until the top is well browned and slightly crisp. Taste and add additional salt and pepper.
Serve while warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 470.76kcal
Fat: 30.00g
Saturated Fat: 10.16g
Trans Fat: 0.27g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.92g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.09g
Carbohydrates: 6.31g
Fiber: 0.86g
Sugar: 3.22g
Protein: 41.46g
Cholesterol: 142.41mg
Sodium: 661.44mg
Calcium: 55.94mg
Potassium: 851.93mg
Iron: 3.03mg
Vitamin A: 7.83µg
Vitamin C: 11.24mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Pork Carnitas

When browning the pork butt, make sure not to overcrowd the pot. This allows the meat to sear properly, creating a rich, caramelized crust that adds depth of flavor to the carnitas. If the pot is too crowded, the meat will steam instead of sear, resulting in less flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pork Carnitas

Prep ahead: Marinate the pork the night before to enhance the flavors and save time on the day of cooking.

Use a slow cooker: Consider using a slow cooker for this recipe to save time and effort. Simply brown the meat, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients and let it cook on low for 8 hours.

Shredding shortcuts: Use a stand mixer to quickly shred the cooked pork instead of doing it by hand. Simply place the cooked meat in the mixer bowl and use the paddle attachment on low speed until it reaches the desired consistency.

Freeze for later: Make a large batch and freeze the extra carnitas in portion-sized bags. This way, you can have a delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Meal prep: Use the leftover carnitas for various meals throughout the week, such as tacos, burrito bowls, or salads, to save time on cooking multiple dishes.

Substitute Ingredients For Pork Carnitas Recipe

pork butt – Substitute with beef chuck roast: Beef chuck roast can be used as a substitute for pork butt in carnitas, as it has a similar rich and flavorful taste when slow-cooked.
canola oil – Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for canola oil, as it has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking the meat.
chicken stock – Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a substitute for chicken stock to maintain the savory flavor in the recipe while catering to a vegetarian diet.
orange – Substitute with tangerine: Tangerine can be used as a substitute for orange to provide a similar citrusy flavor to the carnitas.

Best Ways to Serve Pork Carnitas

Elevate the plating: Arrange the pork carnitas on a large serving platter, ensuring each piece is presented with care and attention to detail.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro and a few sprigs of fresh oregano over the pork carnitas to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Incorporate citrus elements: Place thinly sliced oranges and limes around the platter to add a vibrant and refreshing touch to the dish.
Add a touch of heat: Drizzle a small amount of spicy salsa or chipotle aioli around the edges of the platter to provide a hint of heat and depth of flavor.
Serve with traditional accompaniments: Offer warm tortillas, pickled onions, and salsa verde on the side to allow guests to customize their pork carnitas experience.
Create a visually appealing presentation: Use a combination of different textures and colors to create an eye-catching display that showcases the richness and complexity of the dish.
Consider the vessel: Serve the pork carnitas in a beautiful, rustic ceramic dish or a sleek, modern platter to enhance the overall visual appeal.
Highlight the succulence: Ensure the pork carnitas are glistening and moist, showcasing their succulent and tender texture to entice the senses.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Carnitas

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for roasting and baking food by surrounding it with dry heat.
Large pot: A deep cooking vessel with a wide opening, used for boiling, stewing, or braising ingredients.
Plate: A flat, usually round dish that is used for holding and serving food.
Foil: A thin, pliable sheet of metal, typically aluminum, used for covering or wrapping food during cooking or storage.
Fat separator: A kitchen tool used to separate fat from pan juices, typically after roasting or braising meat.
Spoon: A utensil consisting of a small, shallow bowl on a long handle, used for stirring, serving, and tasting food.
9×13-inch dish: A baking dish with specific dimensions, commonly used for casseroles, roasting, and baking.
Fridge: A household appliance used for preserving food at low temperatures.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for roasting and baking food by surrounding it with dry heat.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Pork Carnitas

Once the pork carnitas have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to include some of the delicious cooking juices to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
If you plan to consume the carnitas within the next 3-4 days, you can store them in the refrigerator. They'll be ready to reheat and enjoy whenever the craving strikes!
For longer storage, freezing is your best bet. Divide the carnitas into portion-sized packages, label them with the date, and place them in the freezer. They'll keep their quality for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to savor the carnitas again, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in a skillet, oven, or microwave until they're heated through and the edges are delightfully crispy.
If you find yourself with leftover carnitas, get creative! Shred the meat and use it as a tasty filling for tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or even a hearty breakfast hash. The possibilities are endless!

How To Reheat Leftover Pork Carnitas

The best way to reheat leftover carnitas is in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or lard. Once hot, add the carnitas and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy and heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Another great option is to reheat the carnitas in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the carnitas in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes until crispy and heated through.
For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat the carnitas in the microwave. Place the desired amount of carnitas in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Keep in mind that this method won't result in crispy carnitas, but it's a good option if you're short on time.
If you have a lot of leftover carnitas, you can also freeze them for later use. To reheat frozen carnitas, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then use one of the above methods to reheat. Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen carnitas directly in a skillet or in the oven, but it will take longer to heat through.
Lastly, you can also use leftover carnitas in various dishes such as tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or salads. Simply reheat the carnitas using one of the above methods and add them to your favorite dish for a quick and delicious meal.

Interesting Fact About Pork Carnitas

The authentic pork carnitas recipe is a traditional Mexican dish made with succulent pork butt, seasoned with a blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection. This flavorful recipe incorporates the richness of cumin, the tanginess of lime juice, and the sweetness of orange, creating a mouthwatering combination. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become tender and juicy, making it a popular choice for tacos, burritos, or as a standalone dish. The dish is a celebration of Mexican culinary heritage and is often enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments such as salsa, guacamole, and fresh cilantro. Try making it at home for a truly authentic dining experience!

Is Making Pork Carnitas at Home Cost-Effective?

This pork carnitas recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like pork butt, onion, and chicken stock makes it budget-friendly. The dish yields a large quantity, making it suitable for a family of four. The approximate cost for this recipe is around $20, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, delicious flavor, and versatility in serving options.

Is Pork Carnitas Healthy or Unhealthy?

The authentic pork carnitas recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High fat content due to the pork butt, which is a fatty cut of meat
Significant amount of salt used for seasoning
Frying the meat in oil adds extra fat and calories

However, there are some redeeming qualities, such as the use of fresh lime juice and onion, which provide some vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Choose a leaner cut of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, to reduce the overall fat content
Reduce the amount of salt used in the seasoning, and opt for low-sodium chicken stock
Instead of frying the meat, try browning it in a non-stick pan with minimal oil, or even bake it in the oven
Increase the amount of onion and add other vegetables like garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes to boost the nutritional value
Serve the carnitas with fresh, nutrient-rich accompaniments like salsa, guacamole, and shredded lettuce or cabbage

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of authentic pork carnitas while minimizing the negative health impacts. Remember, moderation is key, and this dish can still be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet.

Our Editor's Opinion on This Pork Carnitas Recipe

The recipe for authentic pork carnitas is a classic and flavorful dish. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become tender and juicy, while the combination of spices, citrus, and aromatics infuses it with rich, savory flavors. The overnight chilling and final broiling step adds a delightful crispness to the meat, creating a perfect balance of textures. This recipe is a wonderful representation of traditional Mexican cuisine and is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and succulent pork.

Enhance Your Pork Carnitas Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob smothered in a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy sauce.

Chile-Lime Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy roasted sweet potatoes tossed in a tangy and spicy chile-lime seasoning.

Pineapple Salsa: A refreshing and sweet salsa made with fresh pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

Similar Recipes to Authentic Pork Carnitas

Spicy Beef Tacos: These spicy beef tacos are a perfect weeknight meal. The combination of tender beef, flavorful spices, and fresh toppings will have your taste buds dancing.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This mango salsa chicken is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer. The juicy mango salsa pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy chicken, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The rich and creamy texture of the soup, combined with the fresh flavors of tomato and basil, will warm you up from the inside out.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Pork Carnitas Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Offer a refreshing and vibrant appetizer with a classic bruschetta. Top crispy slices of toasted bread with a colorful mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. The combination of juicy tomatoes and aromatic herbs creates a burst of flavor in every bite, making it a delightful start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crunchy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Pork Carnitas Recipe:

This authentic pork carnitas recipe guarantees a mouthwatering experience with its traditional cooking method and flavorful ingredients. The slow braising process ensures tender, succulent pork infused with aromatic spices and citrus notes. The combination of cumin, oregano, and fresh lime juice creates an authentic and irresistible taste. The careful degreasing and overnight chilling allow the flavors to meld, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. Trust in the time-honored techniques and quality components to deliver an unforgettable and genuine carnitas experience.

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FAQ:

What is the best cut of pork to use for carnitas?

The best cut of pork to use for carnitas is pork butt, also known as pork shoulder. It has the perfect balance of meat and fat, which results in tender and flavorful carnitas.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of the oven?

Yes, you can definitely make this recipe in a slow cooker. After browning the meat, transfer all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.

Can I skip the overnight chilling step?

While the overnight chilling step helps the flavors to meld and intensify, you can skip it if you’re short on time. However, allowing the meat to chill overnight will result in even more flavorful and tender carnitas.

Can I use something else instead of orange in this recipe?

If you don’t have an orange, you can substitute it with an equal amount of orange juice. The citrus flavor is essential for the authentic taste of pork carnitas.

How should I serve the pork carnitas?

You can serve the pork carnitas in tacos, burritos, or as a topping for nachos. They also make a delicious filling for sandwiches or can be served alongside rice and beans for a complete meal.