Carnitas Authentic

Carnitas, which translates to "little meats," is a traditional Mexican dish of braised and then roasted pork. This recipe will guide you through making authentic carnitas that are juicy and flavorful.

Carnitas Authentic

Ingredients

  • 4 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 orange, juiced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine the pork, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add enough water to cover the pork.
  3. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once the liquid has evaporated, increase the heat to medium-high and cook until the pork is browned and crispy.
  5. Remove from the heat and let the pork rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
3 hours
Total time:
3 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
0g
Fat
27g

Supplies

Large pot Stirring spoon

Tools

Knife Cutting board

Serving suggestions

Serve the carnitas with warm tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and fresh cilantro.

Tips & tricks

For extra flavor, you can add a cinnamon stick and bay leaves to the pot while braising the pork.

Cost

$15