Authentic Pork Carnitas (Print Version)
Tender pork braised in citrus and spices, then crisped for the perfect balance of juicy meat and caramelized edges.
# Ingredients:
→ Carnitas Ingredients
01 -
4 pounds boneless pork butt, fat trimmed and cut into 2-inch cubes
02 -
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
03 -
¾ teaspoon black pepper
04 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 -
1 teaspoon dried oregano
06 -
2 bay leaves
07 -
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
08 -
1 onion, peeled and halved
09 -
2 cups water
10 -
1 medium orange, juiced, reserve halves
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and adjust the oven rack to the lower middle position.
02 -
Place pork, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, bay leaves, lime juice, onion, water, and orange juice with reserved halves in a Dutch oven.
03 -
Bring mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cover and transfer to the oven. Cook for about 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
04 -
Remove pork from the pot with a slotted spoon and transfer to a foil-lined baking sheet. Strain and discard solids from the pot. Boil remaining liquid on high heat until reduced to a syrupy consistency, about 20-30 minutes.
05 -
While the liquid reduces, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
06 -
Mix shredded pork with reduced liquid. Spread pork evenly on the baking sheet and broil in the oven until crispy and caramelized, about 5-10 minutes per side.
07 -
Serve immediately in tortillas or over rice with your favorite toppings.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
Serve with warm tortillas, guacamole, or tangy salsa for an authentic experience.