Carnitas, the succulent, slow-cooked pulled pork of Mexican cuisine, is a culinary masterpiece that transcends simple pork. Its rich, complex flavor profile, achieved through a masterful blend of spices and tenderizing techniques, makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. From the vibrant citrus notes to the subtle warmth of chiles, every bite offers a burst of authentic Mexican taste. Whether enjoyed in tacos, burritos, or simply as is, carnitas offer an unparalleled dining experience. Forget dry, tough pork – this recipe guarantees tender, melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
This authentic recipe guides you through both traditional and easy methods of preparing carnitas, ensuring delicious results regardless of your skill level. We'll explore the secrets to achieving perfectly tender pork, from the initial marinade to the slow-cooking process, ensuring a flavorful outcome every time. Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and create some truly unforgettable carnitas.
Tools Needed
- Cast iron pot
- Knife
- Probe thermometer
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder
- Garlic cloves
- Onion
- Kosher salt: 2 tablespoons
- Ground pepper
- Bay leaves
- Orange juice: 2 oranges
- Lard: 1/2 gallon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork and Marinade
- Chop garlic and onion.
- Remove fat cap and bone, then cut into medium-sized pieces.
- Mix salt, pepper, garlic, onion, bay leaves, and orange juice. Marinate for at least 2 hours.
Step 2. Confit the Pork
- Heat lard in a cast iron pot to slightly over 200°F (low-medium heat).
- Add pork pieces to the lard and cook gently for over 2 hours, skimming off foam as needed.
- Pork is ready when internal temperature reaches over 200°F.
Step 3. Crisp the Carnitas
- Increase the lard temperature and quickly deep fry the pork for a few minutes to create a crispy crust.
- Rest the pork on paper towels to drain excess fat.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Enjoy your carnitas in tacos, burritos, or your favorite dish!
Read more: Crispy Fish Tacos Recipe: Easy Fried Tilapia Tacos
Tips
- For an easier method, skip deep-frying and slow cook the pork in a pot until tender.
- Lard can be reused for other cooking.
Nutrition
- Calories: 700-800
- Fat: 60-75gg
- Carbs: 2-5gg
- Protein: 50-60gg
FAQs
1. What's the secret to super tender carnitas?
Low and slow cooking is key! The long cooking time breaks down the collagen in the pork, resulting in incredibly tender meat.
2. Can I use a different cut of pork for carnitas?
Shoulder (butt) is traditional, providing the best flavor and tenderness. However, you can also use pork loin, but it might require less cooking time.
3. How do I store leftover carnitas?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
With a little patience and these simple steps, you've now mastered the art of making authentic Mexican carnitas. Whether you choose the traditional or easy method, the result is a flavorful and tender pork dish guaranteed to impress. Now go forth and enjoy the fruits of your labor – delicious carnitas await!