instant pot pork carnitas recipe
The Best instant pot pork carnitas recipe
I have been making pork carnitas for years and the instant pot has completely changed the game. This instant pot pork carnitas recipe gives you all the flavor of the traditional version but in a fraction of the time. The meat comes out tender and juicy with those crispy edges that everyone loves.
My family asks for this dish at least once a week and I am happy to make it because it is so simple. This recipe starts with a pork shoulder which is a cut that does well with pressure cooking. The instant pot breaks down the connective tissue in the meat leaving it fork tender.
You get that rich pork flavor from the seasonings and the citrus juices. The meat gets a quick broil at the end to create those crispy bits that make carnitas so special. It is a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion.
I love that this recipe uses simple ingredients that I usually have on hand. The pork shoulder is affordable and feeds a crowd which makes it great for family dinners or gatherings. This dish is also naturally gluten free and low carb if you skip the tortillas.
You can serve it in tacos over rice or in a salad for a lighter meal. The leftovers are even better the next day which is a bonus for busy families. My kids love piling the carnitas onto warm tortillas with all their favorite toppings.
I usually set up a little taco bar with salsa avocado cheese and sour cream so everyone can build their own. It makes dinner fun and interactive and everyone leaves the table happy. This instant pot pork carnitas recipe has become a staple in our home and I think it will become one in yours too.
Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
These instant pot pork carnitas are tender and flavorful with crispy edges. The pressure cooker makes the meat perfectly juicy in a fraction of the time.
🥘Ingredients
For the Pork
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Works
This instant pot pork carnitas recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It works well for family gatherings because it feeds a crowd and everyone loves the tender meat with crispy edges.
I hope you give this recipe a try and make it your own. To store leftovers let the carnitas cool completely then place them in an airtight container.
They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. For reheating I like to crisp them up in a hot skillet or under the broiler for a few minutes.
You can also reheat them in the microwave but the texture will be softer. Serve the reheated carnitas in tacos over nachos or on a salad for an easy meal.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
1. Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes you can use pork butt which is also called Boston butt. It has a similar fat content and will become tender in the instant pot. Avoid lean cuts like pork loin because they will dry out.
2. How do I store leftover carnitas?
Store the leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or under the broiler to bring back the crispy texture.
3. Can I make this recipe without an instant pot?
Yes you can make it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. For a slow cooker cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. For stovetop simmer the pork in the liquid for about 2 hours until tender.
4. What can I serve with pork carnitas?
Pork carnitas are great in warm corn or flour tortillas with toppings like salsa avocado cheese and sour cream. You can also serve them over rice in a salad or on a bun for a sandwich.
5. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes you can add heat by including a diced jalapeno or chipotle pepper in adobo sauce with the cooking liquid. You can also serve the carnitas with a spicy salsa on the side.