crispy pork carnitas recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best crispy pork carnitas recipe

I’ve been making crispy pork carnitas for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress my family. The dish originated in Mexico, where it’s a staple at many gatherings and celebrations.

The key to making great carnitas is in the slow cooking process, which breaks down the meat and makes it tender and juicy. I love the way the pork absorbs all the flavors from the lard, spices, and citrus juice, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to match.

My kids adore helping me cook this dish, as they get to assist with shredding the pork and assembling the tacos. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion, whether we’re having a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a big gathering with friends and family.

Crispy Pork Carnitas

4.7 from 1046 votes

Crispy Pork Carnitas is a delicious Mexican-inspired dish featuring tender, flavorful pork with a crispy exterior. This recipe uses slow-cooked pork shoulder and a simple seasoning blend for an authentic taste.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

2 lbs pork shoulder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

For the Cooking

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup lime juice

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper.
2Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the pork shoulder.
3Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
4Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5Add the seasoned pork shoulder and sear on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
6Transfer the pork to a slow cooker.
7Pour the orange juice and lime juice over the pork in the slow cooker.
8Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
9Preheat the oven to 425°F.
10Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
11Place the shredded pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12Spread the pork evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
13Stir the pork halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
14Remove the pork from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
15Serve with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, and your favorite toppings.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Baking sheet
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can adjust the seasoning to your taste. For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. You can also substitute the pork shoulder with pork butt for a leaner option.

Watch Video Of How Crispy Pork Carnitas Works

Carnitas are always a great idea for any occasion. They are perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a casual weeknight dinner. This dish is so versatile, you can have a great meal any night of the week. Plus, its a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. They love helping me shred the pork and assemble their own tacos.

Ive even made this dish for potlucks and parties, and its always a crowd-pleaser. Its a great way to introduce new flavors to friends and family and share a little bit of Mexican culture. The leftovers are always a hit. My kids love to eat it for lunch the next day, and I love that its a healthy source of protein. This dish is so versatile, you can have a great meal any night of the week.

Plus, its a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. They love helping me shred the pork and assemble their own tacos. Ive even made this dish for potlucks and parties, and its always a crowd-pleaser. Its a great way to introduce new flavors to friends and family and share a little bit of Mexican culture. Plus, its a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen.

They love helping me shred the pork and assemble their own tacos. Ive even made this dish for potlucks and parties, and its always a crowd-pleaser. Its a great way to introduce new flavors to friends and family and share a little bit of Mexican culture.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Pork Carnitas

Q: What type of pork is best for carnitas?

Pork shoulder or pork butt are the best cuts for carnitas. Look for meat that’s high in fat content, as it will help keep the meat moist and flavorful during cooking.

Q: Can I use a slow cooker instead of a Dutch oven?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make carnitas. Simply brown the pork in a skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients.

Q: How do I prevent the pork from becoming too dry?

To prevent dryness, make sure to not overcook the pork. Also, be sure to keep an eye on it while it’s cooking, as you can always add more liquid if needed.

Q: Can I make carnitas ahead of time?

You can make carnitas ahead of time by cooking the pork in advance and then reheating it when you’re ready to serve.

Q: What are some good toppings for carnitas tacos?

Some popular toppings for carnitas tacos include diced onions, cilantro, lime wedges, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced radishes.

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