pressure cooker carnitas recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
pressure cooker carnitas recipe
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The Best pressure cooker carnitas recipe

I’ve been making pressure cooker carnitas for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorite recipes. It’s a staple in our household, and we always look forward to having it on special occasions or just a regular Tuesday night.

The dish originated in Mexico, where it’s known as ‘carnitas,’ which translates to ‘little meats.’ It’s typically made with pork shoulder, slow-cooked in lard or oil until tender and crispy.

When I discovered that I could make this dish in my pressure cooker, I was thrilled. It’s a game-changer for busy home cooks like me who want to get a delicious meal on the table quickly.

The result is a flavorful, tender pork that’s perfect for serving with tacos, salads, or as a main course. My family loves when I serve it with all the fixings: warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

It’s a recipe that never fails to impress, and it’s become a staple in our household. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make.

Simply brown the pork in the pressure cooker, then add your favorite spices and cook until tender. It’s a low-maintenance recipe that requires minimal supervision, making it perfect for busy families or solo home cooks.

Pressure Cooker Carnitas

Pressure Cooker Carnitas

4.7 from 1659 votes

Tender, juicy pork carnitas made quickly in a pressure cooker. The meat is seasoned with citrus and spices, then crisped under the broiler for authentic texture.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Carnitas

3 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into 3-inch chunks
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 medium onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 orange, juiced (about 1/3 cup)
1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 bay leaves

For Serving

Corn or flour tortillas
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Diced white onion
Salsa verde
Lime wedges

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the pork chunks evenly with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
2Let the meat sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
3Place the seasoned pork, onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, chicken broth, and bay leaves into the pressure cooker.
4Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
5Lock the lid on the pressure cooker and set the valve to sealing.
6Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
7Once the time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining steam.
8Remove the pork chunks from the cooking liquid using tongs and transfer them to a large baking sheet.
9Discard the bay leaves and onion pieces, but reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.
10Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
11Drizzle the reserved cooking liquid over the shredded meat and toss to moisten evenly.
12Preheat your oven broiler to high.
13Spread the shredded pork in an even layer on the baking sheet.
14Broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the edges are browned and crispy, watching carefully to avoid burning.
15Remove from the oven and serve immediately on warm tortillas with cilantro, diced onion, salsa verde, and lime wedges.
16Enjoy the carnitas while they are hot and crisp.

🔧Equipment

Pressure cooker (6-quart or larger)
Tongs
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups
Large baking sheet
Fork

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 38g

📝Notes

For extra crispy carnitas, spread the shredded meat on a baking sheet and broil until the edges are deeply browned. You can also crisp the meat in a hot skillet with a little oil. Leftover carnitas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Pressure Cooker Carnitas Works

I’m so glad I can share this amazing pressure cooker carnitas recipe with you all!

It’s been a staple in my household for years and always gets rave reviews from my family and friends.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or an impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pressure Cooker Carnitas

Q: What is carnitas?

Carnitas is a Mexican dish made from slow-cooked pork that’s been shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces.

Q: Can I use other types of meat for carnitas?

Yes, you can make carnitas with other types of meat such as beef or chicken.

Q: How do I store leftover carnitas?

You can store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make carnitas without a pressure cooker?

No, the pressure cooker is essential for making carnitas as it allows you to cook the meat quickly and evenly.

Q: How do I reheat carnitas?

To reheat carnitas, place it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.

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