March 25, 2020
If you are a fan of street tacos, you’ve probably had carnitas. They are usually slow cooked, and as a result become these delicious, melt in your mouth pieces of shredded pork that are boasting with flavor.
Not only are carnitas delish, recipes like this one are usually enough to feed a small crowd. Which is why this recipe is what I ALWAYS make for new parents. Taking this recipe to a friend in need will have them eating on the carnitas for AT LEAST 2 days.
How do I serve the Carnitas?
That’s a great question. I like to serve mine as tacos. Serving these on tortillas is the best way to eat carnitas. Top with Diced onion, shredded cabbage or coleslaw , pico de gallo & maybe a drizzle of a sauce of choice. For a great coleslaw recipe – check out this one.
If you are on Whole30 try serving on Jicama wraps or butter lettuce.
For more ideas on how to eat Pork Carnitas – check out this post: How to Make 12 Different Recipes using leftover Pork Carnitas.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by making the rub by combining the chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Next divide up the pork into 3-4 inch sections. This just makes for easier handling when browning and placing in the slowcooker or instantpot. Then coat the pork with the dry rub mixture.
- Brown the Meat:If using the Instant pot: heat the avocado oil on the saute feature. Brown the pork on all sides, 3-5 minutes per side. This may gave to be done in batches. Once complete, remove & set aside.If using a slowcooker: heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat on the stove. rown the pork on all sides, 3-5 minutes per side. This may gave to be done in batches. Once complete, remove & set aside.
- While the pork is browning, make the sauce: In a blender combine: garlic, OJ, stock, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, lime juice and vinegar. Blend until smooth.
- Add pork & onions to the slowcooker or instantpot along with any juices from the pan or plate the pork was resting on.
- Pour sauce over the meat & close lid
- For Instant Pot: Cook on manual for 45 mjnutes. After cook cycle has completed, manually release pressure.For Slow Cooker: Cook on Low for 6-8 Hours or High for 4-6 hours.
- When cooking has completed, remove pork & shred with a fork.
- For Crispy Carnitas (only complete this step when ready to serve): In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp of oil.– Add a single layer of carnitas to the skillet, do not overcrowd the pan. Allow meat to saute for at least 3 minutes before flipping, then repeat or until desired crispness is achieved.
Notes
Add to a tortilla, serve over cauliflower rice or a baked sweet potato. Top with desired toppings. I suggest sliced cabbage, cilantro, red onion, avocado and a salsa verde or chipotle ranch.
