When it comes to traditional Mexican dishes, few can rival the rich, crispy, and flavorful bite of Mexican pork carnitas. This slow-cooked, then pan-crisped, pork is irresistibly tender on the inside while boasting a golden-brown exterior. Whether you stuff it into tacos, burritos, or enjoy it on its own, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every time.
Crispy, Juicy Mexican Pork Carnitas
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Total Time 3 hours hrs 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
- 3 lbs pork shoulder boneless, skinless, cut into large chunks
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 onion quartered
- 1 orange juiced
- 1 lime juiced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Season the pork
Rub the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Cook low and slow
In a Dutch oven or slow cooker, add the pork along with garlic, onion, orange juice, lime juice, bay leaves, and chicken broth.
Slow cooker
Cover and cook on low for 7 - 8 hours or high for 4 - 5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Dutch oven
Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 3 - 3.5 hours, checking occasionally to ensure there’s still liquid.
Shred the pork
Remove the pork from the cooking liquid and shred it with two forks.
Crisp it up
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shredded pork in batches and press it down for extra crispiness. Cook until the edges are golden and crispy.
Serve and enjoy
Use the crispy Mexican pulled pork for tacos, burritos, or even on its own with rice and beans.
Pairings
- Serve with warm corn tortillas, fresh salsa, and pickled onions for a delicious taco experience.
- Pair with Mexican rice and refried beans for a hearty meal.
- Enjoy with an ice-cold Mexican beer or a refreshing margarita.
FAQs
1. What cut of pork is best for carnitas?
Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) is the best choice because of its fat content, which keeps the meat juicy and flavorful during the long cooking process.
2. Can I make carnitas in advance?
Yes! You can cook and shred the pork ahead of time, then crisp it up in a skillet just before serving.
3. How do I use leftovers?
Carnitas make fantastic leftovers. Try using them in pork tacos recipes, burritos, quesadillas, or even breakfast hash!
