instant pot pork recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best instant pot pork recipe

I’m so excited to share this Instant Pot Pork Recipe with you all. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or special occasions.

I first discovered this recipe on a food blog, and it quickly became a staple in our household. The combination of tender pork, flavorful sauce, and the ease of cooking in the Instant Pot makes it a perfect dish for any occasion.

My kids love it when I serve it with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, and my husband raves about the juicy meat and rich flavors. I’ve even taken this recipe to potlucks and family gatherings, where it’s always been a hit.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal cleanup.

This recipe has become a go-to for me whenever I need to feed a crowd or just want a comforting meal at home.

Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

4.5 from 1098 votes

This Instant Pot Pork Carnitas recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy tender, juicy pork with crispy edges. Serve with tortillas, salsa, and your favorite toppings for a delicious meal.

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 cumin
1 tsp paprika

For the Marinade

1 orange juiced
1 lime juiced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp oregano

For the Garnish

1 cup fresh cilantro chopped
1 lime sliced
1 avocado sliced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode.
2Add olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
3Add pork shoulder and brown on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and set aside.
5In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika.
6Mix well to combine.
7Add the pork back into the Instant Pot and pour the marinade over the top.
8Make sure the pork is fully submerged in the marinade.
9Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the steam release valve is set to sealing.
10Select the manual pressure cook setting and set the time for 25 minutes.
11Allow the pressure to build and the pork to cook.
12Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10 minutes.
13After the pressure has released, carefully remove the lid and use tongs to shred the pork directly in the Instant Pot.
14Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook until the pork is crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally.
15This should take about 5-7 minutes.
16The pork is done when it is crispy and easily shreddable.
17Serve the pork carnitas hot with tortillas, salsa, chopped cilantro, lime slices, and avocado slices.
18Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Pork Carnitas.

🔧Equipment

Instant Pot
Mixing bowl
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra crispy edges, broil the shredded pork in the oven for an additional 5 minutes. You can also use pork butt instead of pork shoulder.

Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Works

This Instant Pot Pork Recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be for yours too! Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients from the lean pork and rich sauce.

When reheating leftovers, try serving them over rice or noodles for added comfort. If you’re looking for ways to repurpose this recipe, consider turning it into tacos or using it as filling for sandwiches.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

Q1: What is the secret to making tender pork in the Instant Pot?

A: The secret lies in using the right cut of meat and cooking it on high pressure for the right amount of time. You’ll want to use a pork shoulder or butt roast, which is typically tougher than other cuts but becomes incredibly tender with slow cooking. Make sure to cook it on high pressure for at least 30 minutes to ensure that the meat is fall-apart tender.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

A: While you can cook this recipe in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, it won’t be as easy or convenient as using an Instant Pot. The Instant Pot allows for quick cooking times and helps to retain the moisture in the meat. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can try using a slow cooker or stovetop method, but be prepared for longer cooking times and more effort involved.

Q3: How do I store leftover pork after cooking?

A: You can store leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the pork. This makes meal prep easier and saves time during the week.

Q5: What are some variations on this recipe?

A: You can try adding different spices or herbs to give the pork more flavor, such as cumin, coriander, or thyme. Alternatively, you can serve it with different sides, like roasted vegetables or rice bowls.

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