Carnitas Tacos Recipe

Mak Erot

4 min read

·

Apr 03, 2025

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Carnitas Tacos: A Recipe for Deliciousness

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more? Then get ready to learn how to make authentic carnitas tacos, a Mexican delight that's both flavorful and surprisingly easy to prepare. This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect balance of tender, juicy pork and crispy, flavorful edges – the hallmark of truly great carnitas.

What are Carnitas?

Before we dive into the recipe, let's understand what makes carnitas so special. Carnitas, meaning "little meats" in Spanish, are traditionally slow-cooked pork shoulder that becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. The long cooking process renders the fat, resulting in incredibly juicy and succulent meat that practically melts in your mouth. The best carnitas achieve a beautiful balance of tender inside and crispy edges, a textural contrast that elevates this dish to new heights.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings of delicious carnitas tacos. Gather these ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (butt roast): The star of the show! Choose a good quality pork shoulder for the best results.
• 1 large white onion, roughly chopped: Adds depth of flavor to the braising liquid.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that authentic Mexican flavor profile.
• 2 oranges, juiced: Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the pork.
• 1 lime, juiced: Adds brightness and acidity to complement the other flavors.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the pork and adding richness.
• 2 tsp ground cumin: A warm and earthy spice that's essential in Mexican cuisine.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the flavor.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Another key spice in Mexican cooking.
• 1 tsp chili powder: Adds a touch of heat (adjust to your preference).
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors of the pork.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: A classic seasoning.
• Corn or flour tortillas: Your choice of tortilla for the perfect taco experience.
• Your favorite taco toppings: Think cilantro, onions, salsa, etc.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a good sear.

2. Sear the Pork: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until nicely browned. This step helps to develop rich flavor.

3. Braise the Pork: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook for a few minutes until softened. Then, add the orange juice, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

4. Slow Cook the Carnitas: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and braise for at least 3-4 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. You can also do this in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.

5. Shred the Pork: Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.

6. Crisp the Carnitas (Optional): For extra crispy carnitas, you can return the shredded pork to the pot (without the braising liquid) and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts to brown and crisp. This step is optional but highly recommended for that amazing textural contrast.

7. Assemble Your Tacos: Warm your tortillas and fill them with the delicious carnitas. Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Carnitas Tacos:

• Don't overcrowd the pot: Ensure there's enough space in the pot for the pork to brown properly.
• Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred level of heat.
• Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the carnitas will taste.
• Let it rest: Allow the carnitas to rest for a bit after shredding before crisping them to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic: Cilantro, onions, salsa, and a squeeze of lime.
• Elevated: Pico de gallo, guacamole, crumbled cotija cheese, and a drizzle of crema fresca.
• Spicy: Add some chopped jalapeños or a fiery salsa for extra heat.

Enjoy your homemade carnitas tacos! They're perfect for a casual weeknight meal or a fun weekend gathering. Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us – we'd love to see your delicious results!