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When I first discovered how easy it is to whip up Pork Carnitas using either my Instant Pot or slow cooker, it felt like finding a little piece of culinary magic in my kitchen. Imagine tender, savory pork shoulder slowly simmered in a medley of spices, bursting with flavor and topped with a hint of fresh lime. The aroma wafting through the house is irresistible, calling to the family like a warm embrace after a long day.

Whether you’re looking for a no-fuss weeknight meal or planning a festive taco night with friends, this recipe brings versatility to the table. In just a couple of hours—whether you prefer the slow, decadent method or the speedy pressure cook—you can create something both comforting and gourmet. Imagine topping your crispy carnitas with diced onions and fresh cilantro, all nestled in warm tortillas. With every bite, you’ll savor authentic Mexican flavors that rival your favorite restaurant, minus the wait. Join me in creating this family-friendly dish that will surely become a favorite in your household!

Why are Pork Carnitas a Game-Changer?

Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you choose the Instant Pot for a quick fix or the slow cooker for that classic, deep flavor, this recipe suits your schedule perfectly.
Irresistible Aroma: The richness of slow-simmered pork shoulder paired with bold spices fills your home with a mouthwatering scent that’s hard to resist.
Crispy Perfection: Broiling the carnitas at the end gives you deliciously crispy edges, adding a delightful texture to your tacos.
Easily Customizable: Feel free to adjust spices or swap meats; this recipe invites creativity for every taste bud.
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Perfect for gatherings, these tacos will impress guests and bring everyone to the table for a shared experience.
Effortless Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can enjoy a homemade feast without the hassle, making cooking a joy rather than a chore. This is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your favorites!

Pork Carnitas Ingredients

• Get ready to elevate your taco night!

For the Carnitas

Pork Shoulder – The star of the dish, trimmed of excess fat for a healthier option.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and depth of flavor; easily swapped with vegetable broth if desired.
Fresh Orange Juice – Provides a sweet, citrusy punch that enhances the pork; about 2-3 oranges yields enough.
Fresh Lime Juice – Brightens the flavors and balances richness; about 2 limes are needed.
Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
Black Pepper – Offers mild heat; freshly ground gives the best flavor.
Ground Cumin – Brings earthy depth, a must-have for authentic flavor.
Dried Mexican Oregano – Adds herby notes typical of Mexican cooking; can substitute Italian oregano if necessary.
Ground Coriander – For a hint of citrusy freshness to complement the pork.
Ancho Chili Powder – Introduces mild, smoky heat and enhances the dish’s depth.
Cayenne Pepper – Adjust according to your spice preference for an extra kick.
Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness when finely chopped, contributes to the flavor base.
Garlic – About 6 cloves minced (or 2 tablespoons) for robust taste.
Vegetable Oil – Used for broiling, crucial for achieving those crispy edges.

For Serving

Corn or Flour Tortillas – Essentials for serving; warmed to enhance texture and flavor.
Diced Yellow Onions and Cilantro – Optional toppings that bring freshness and a nice crunch to your tacos.

Make sure to enjoy these Pork Carnitas either made in an Instant Pot or Slow Cooker—both methods guarantee delicious results!

How to Make Pork Carnitas

Prepare the Pork: Cut the pork shoulder into manageable chunks if you’re using the Instant Pot. This will ensure quick cooking and help the flavors penetrate deeper.
Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker or Instant Pot, mix together the low-sodium chicken broth, fresh orange juice, fresh lime juice, and all the spices with the pork chunks, finely chopped onions, and minced garlic.
Cook: For the slow cooker, set it on low for 8 hours. If using the Instant Pot, seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then naturally release the pressure for tender, juicy meat.
Shred the Pork: Carefully remove the pork from the pot/slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the meat, leaving some of the cooking liquid for extra flavor.
Broil: Preheat your oven broiler. Spread the shredded pork onto a baking sheet, drizzle with vegetable oil, and broil on high for 3-6 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
Serve: Warm the tortillas and fill them generously with the crispy carnitas. Top with diced onions and fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and freshness.

Optional: Squeeze additional lime juice over the filled tacos for a zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Pork Carnitas

Quality Meat: Choose a good quality pork shoulder for the best flavor and texture; avoid overly fatty pieces that can make your pork greasy.
Spice Adjustment: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spice levels to suit your palate; it’s easy to start mild and gradually increase with cayenne pepper for a personalized kick in your pork carnitas.
Mind the Broil: Watch the pork closely while broiling—it’s easy to go from crispy to burnt quickly, especially since you’re working with hot oil.
Resting Time: Let the shredded pork rest briefly before broiling to enhance juiciness; this will give you extra tender carnitas packed with flavor.
Flavor Boost: For an added depth, consider marinating the pork shoulder overnight in spices and juices before cooking—it will elevate your pork carnitas to the next level!
Storage Solutions: Make sure to store leftover pork carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge; don’t forget to include some of the cooking liquid to keep the meat moist.

Make Ahead Options

These Pork Carnitas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pork shoulder by seasoning and placing it in the slow cooker or Instant Pot up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully. Just refrigerate the marinated pork until you’re ready to cook it. You can also make the carnitas and store the shredded meat in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the carnitas in a skillet and follow the broiling instructions to restore that crispy texture. This way, you can savor the same delicious flavors with a fraction of the effort on busy weeknights!

Pork Carnitas Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these exciting twists!

Chicken Alternative: Swap pork with chicken thighs for a leaner option that’s just as flavorful.
Beef Option: Use chuck roast instead of pork for a unique take, enriching the flavor profile with deeper notes.
Keto-Friendly: Omit orange juice and use a sugar substitute to keep the recipe low-carb while still delicious.
Extra Spice: Add sliced jalapeños or chipotle peppers during cooking for an extra heat kick that brings the heat of Mexico straight to your table.
Mild and Sweet: For a milder taste, include bell peppers during the cooking process and serve with a mango salsa for a sweet twist.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute pork with jackfruit or cauliflower for a plant-based take that’s just as satisfying and flavorful.
Citrusy Explosion: Enhance the citrus flavor by adding lime zest alongside the fresh lime juice, elevating the tanginess of the dish.
Smoky BBQ Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or liquid smoke into the spice mix for a barbecue-style twist that’s surprisingly delightful.

Embrace these variations, and remember, the heart of great cooking lies in adapting favorite recipes to your personal taste!

How to Store and Freeze Pork Carnitas

Fridge: Store leftover pork carnitas in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Adding a little of the cooking liquid will help maintain moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork carnitas in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Ensure as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of liquid if needed, until heated through.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving pork carnitas out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth; always refrigerate promptly.

What to Serve with Pork Carnitas Tacos?

Create a delightful spread around your fabulous taco creation that will please everyone at the table!

Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and rich, this avocado dip adds a beautiful contrast to the crispiness of the carnitas, enhancing the flavor experience.
Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa brightens up your tacos with vibrant flavors from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro—it’s the perfect pop of freshness.
Spanish Rice: Fluffy and savory, this side dish rounds out your meal beautifully, adding a comforting, hearty element to balance the tacos.
Black Beans: Seasoned black beans offer an excellent source of protein and fiber, elevating both the nutrition and heartiness of your meal.
Corn Salad: A crunchy, sweet corn salad adds a refreshing touch, with textures that contrast nicely with warm tortillas and savory carnitas.
Margaritas: These classic cocktails bring a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with your tacos, enhancing the overall festive atmosphere.
Churros: For dessert, these warm, crispy treats accompanied by chocolate sauce or caramel will surely end your meal on a sweet note!
Cilantro Lime Rice: This aromatic rice dish, flavored with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, complements the flavors of your carnitas and adds a burst of color to your spread.

Pork Carnitas Recipe FAQs

What pork cut should I use for the best carnitas?
Absolutely! Pork shoulder is the best cut for carnitas. It has a perfect balance of fat and meat, ensuring the dish turns out tender and flavorful. Look for a shoulder with a good layer of fat for moist results.

How should I store leftover carnitas?
After enjoying your delicious pork carnitas, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To maintain moisture, I recommend adding a little of the cooking liquid before sealing the container.

Can I freeze pork carnitas?
Yes! You can freeze pork carnitas for up to 3 months. To do this, let the carnitas cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I do if my carnitas are too dry?
If your pork carnitas turn out dry, don’t worry! You can add a little broth, or the cooking liquid, back into the shredded meat. Heat it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until the meat absorbs the moisture and becomes tender again. Keeping some liquid in storage helps prevent this too!

Are these carnitas suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Yes, definitely! Pork carnitas themselves are naturally gluten-free as they’re made with just meat and spices. However, if serving in tortillas, opt for corn tortillas instead of flour to keep your meal gluten-free.

What are some quick serving suggestions for my carnitas?
For a fun taco night, serve your crispy pork carnitas in warmed corn or flour tortillas, topped with diced fresh onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. You can also offer sides like guacamole, salsa, or even grilled peppers to elevate the meal!