Easy Pork Carnitas Series You Should Try

Pork Carnitas is a very famous Mexican dish. Because of its tender and tasty meat, Mexicans and people from other countries try it. This recipe can be made using different methods. In this article, I will share the Pork Carnitas Series with you. 

Before starting the article, I want to tell you that this delicious recipe will always turn out great, no matter your method.

Spanish Word Carnitas Meaning

Carnitas is a Spanish word that means “little meats.” This dish is made from pork, especially from the shoulder part. 

This part becomes very soft, juicy, and tender when cooked. Then, different spices are added for good flavor. Finally, it is shredded and used in different ways.

1. Slow Cooker Method

The longer you slow cook it, the more tender it becomes. I will share easy steps to make this using the slow cooker method.

Ingredients list

1. Pork Shoulder: 4-5 lbs
2. Garlic: 4-5 cloves (minced)
3. Onions: 1-2 (chopped)
4. Orange Juice: 1 cup
5. Lime Juice: 1/4 cup
6. Chili Powder
7. Cumin
8. Oregano
9. Salt
10. Pepper

Instructions

1. First, start with the pork. Take a sharp knife and cut off the extra fat from the pork shoulder. Some people do not do this, but I do not recommend it.
2. Removing the extra fat keeps it from being greasy, and the final results are much better. Even the color of the dish looks very bright, and this way, it impresses anyone who sees it.
3. Once that is done, take a simple bowl and combine chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub these spices well onto the pork. Just make sure that the pork is nicely covered with the seasoning. It’ll make the flavors in your recipe even better.

Tip: You can make cuts in the pork; this way, all the spices will get added nicely.

4. After seasoning well, place the pork in a slow cooker & keep the flame on medium. Then add chopped garlic & onions to it. As the pork cooks, it will produce a great flavor. 
5. Finally, add lemon and orange juice. This will not only improve the flavor but also make it tender.
6. Cover it with a lid and set it to cook for almost 8 hours. If you have more time, set it for longer. But I prefer making this dish when you have more time because the longer you cook it, the tastier it will be.
7. In the last step, carefully take it out of the pot. Use 2 forks to shred the meat. The more it has cooked, the easier and quicker it will shred.

Tip: If you like a little crunch, place it on a baking sheet and put it under the oven broiler for a few minutes. It’ll make its edges a little crispy.

2. Instant Pot Method

This is the second method in the Pork Carnitas Series that I use a lot. The ingredients will be the same as those used in the slow cooker method. One extra ingredient to use is 1 cup of water or broth.

Step By Step Instructions

1. As the slow cooker method, season the pork shoulder. Mix the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Make sure to rub all over pork, making sure that it’s covered all ways for a great flavor.
2. Once seasoned, place the seasoned pork in your Instant Pot. Add one cup of water or broth. It is an important liquid because it makes the steam to help the pork cook evenly and tenderly.
3. Press Manual/High pressure on the Instant Pot, place the lid on, and close it. Cook for 70 minutes. It’ll make gorgeous, juicy, flavorful pork.
4. When the cooking time is finished, the pressure is released naturally. You should leave the pot and wait for the pressure to naturally let down, which takes about 10–15 minutes.
5. Shred the Meat

• Open the lid carefully after the pressure has let go. The pork should be super tender & able to shred.
• With two forks, tear the meat into shreds.
• If you want it to be crispy, take the shredded pork off a baking sheet and cook it in the oven for a few minutes until the edges are golden.

3. Oven Method: Third & Last Method in the Pork Carnitas Series

This method is also very easy; since every home has an oven, it is used often. However, in this method, the pork is divided into small pieces.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven; this will create a good environment before cooking.
2. Season your smaller pieces of pork, like you did in the slow cooker method. Make sure to rub your spices all over the meat to get the best flavor.
3. Place seasoned pork pieces into a Dutch oven and a great heavy pot for oven use. Otherwise, add about 1 cup of liquid, such as orange juice or broth. It will help to keep the pork moist as cooking time goes on.
4. Set the lid on the Dutch oven and put it in the oven. Bake for around 3 – 3.5 hours. After that time, look at the pork to see how tender it is. When it’s done, shedder it with a fork.
5. When the pork is done, remove it from the oven & shred the pork with two forks. Spread the shredded pork over a baking sheet if you like a crispier texture. Broil it in the oven for a minute until the edges are crunchy.

Serving Methods For Pork Carnitas Series

1. Fill carnitas into tacos soft/hard. Fresh cilantro and diced onions, along with your favorite salsa on top.
2. Place the carnitas in a large tortilla with rice, beans, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
3. Dump the shredded pork between two tortillas with cheese & cook until the tortillas are golden and crispy.
4. If you’re looking for something lighter, add some carnitas to a salad of lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.

Conclusion

Whether you plan on making some bullion cook (enchiladas), steak kay beans, or grabbing carnitas tacos, I’m sure everyone will love the pork carnitas. I shared a whole Pork Carnitas series with you. 

It’s incredibly easy whether you do it in a slow cooker, an Instant Pot, or an oven, and the result is tender, flavorful meat that shines in tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.