If you’re craving a delicious, hearty meal bursting with authentic Mexican flavors, Pork Carnitas is the perfect choice. This slow-cooked pork dish is tender, juicy, and richly seasoned with spices that strike a mouthwatering balance of savory and tangy. Whether you serve it in tacos, burritos, or alongside rice and beans, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Easy to make at home and full of bold flavors, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent place on your dinner rotation. Ready to get started? Let’s explore what makes this dish so special.
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Why You’ll Love This Pork Carnitas
One of the best reasons to make Pork Carnitas is its incredible versatility and rich flavor. The pork becomes tender and juicy through slow cooking, practically melting in your mouth with every bite. A blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano adds a deep, smoky flavor, while a splash of fresh lime juice provides a bright, tangy balance. This dish is perfect for any occasion because it can be served in many ways—whether stuffed in tacos, wrapped in burritos, or simply plated with your favorite sides.
Another great benefit is that this meal can be made ahead of time and reheated without losing any of its delicious taste or texture. The recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to please any crowd. Once you try this slow-cooked pork, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection
Here’s What You’ll Need to Make Pork Carnitas
To make authentic and flavorful Pork Carnitas, gather the following ingredients:
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 4 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large pieces
- 3 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 4 cans (14.5 ounces each) chicken broth
How to Make Pork Carnitas
Step 1
Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks, about 3 to 4 inches each, to ensure even cooking. Heat ¼ cup of vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over high heat. Season the pork pieces generously with 3 tablespoons of kosher salt. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork to the pot, making sure not to overcrowd it. Brown the pork on all sides, turning occasionally, until it develops a deep golden crust—this usually takes about 10 minutes.
Step 2
While the pork browns, chop the onion and crush the garlic finely. When the pork is nicely browned, add the chopped onion, crushed garlic, 3 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon ground cumin to the pot. Stir to combine all the flavors. Pour in 4 cans (14.5 ounces each) of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 2 ½ hours, or until the pork is tender enough to shred easily.
Step 3
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 4
Remove the pork from the pot and place it on a large baking sheet. Reserve the cooking liquid and drizzle a small amount over the pork, then sprinkle lightly with salt.
Step 5
Remove the pork pieces carefully from the pot using tongs and transfer them to a large baking sheet in a single layer. Set aside the flavorful cooking liquid for later use. Drizzle a small amount of the reserved liquid over the pork to keep it moist, then sprinkle lightly with salt for added flavor.
Step 6
Serve your meal hot and enjoy the delicious, tender flavors!
Tips for the Perfect Pork Carnitas
Want to make sure your dísh turns out perfectly every time? Follow these expert tips to elevate your results:
- Use a well-marbled pork shoulder to keep the meat juicy and tender during slow cooking.
- Don’t rush the browning step; it adds deep flavor and a nice texture to the pork.
- Monitor the cooking liquid as the pork simmers—keep the meat moist without letting it swim in too much broth.
- When shredding, crisp the pork in the oven with some reserved cooking juices to get those irresistible crunchy edges.
- Taste the pork at the end and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or lime juice can really enhance the overall flavor.
- Be patient—slow cooking is key for tender, flavorful dish.
Pair This Pork Carnitas With
- Warm corn tortillas — ideal for wrapping up your carnitas into tasty tacos or burritos.
- Fresh pico de gallo — adds a bright, zesty burst of flavor that complements the richness of the pork.
- Creamy guacamole — brings a smooth, buttery contrast that balances the savory spices.
- Mexican rice or refried beans — hearty sides that round out the meal perfectly.
- Crisp cabbage slaw — offers a refreshing crunch and lightness to each bite.
- Fresh lime wedges — a quick squeeze adds lively acidity and freshness.
- Crumbled queso fresco or sour cream — for a creamy, slightly tangy finish that enhances every bite.
Together, these sides create a vibrant, satisfying meal around your Pork Carnitas.
More Recipes to Try
- Grilled Salmon
- Shrimp Rice Bowls
- Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Pea Soup with Fresh Herbs
- Mexican Street Corn Soup
ChopChop USA Kitchen Tools
Preparing Pork Carnitas becomes easier and more enjoyable with high-quality kitchen tools from ChopChop USA. Their expertly crafted products offer durability, precision, and comfort—perfect for home cooks who want professional results.
The ChopChop USA Double-Sided Titanium Cutting Board is an essential piece in your kitchen. One side features ultra-strong, antibacterial titanium that’s ideal for safely handling raw pork and other meats. The reverse side is made from biodegradable wheat fiber with juice grooves, perfect for prepping vegetables or serving. This cutting board is knife-friendly, dishwasher safe, and built to last for years of regular use, making it both practical and sustainable.
For slicing and shredding your pork shoulder with ease, the ChopChop Boning Knife is a must-have. Its precision flex blade is razor-sharp and designed to glide smoothly through meat, allowing you to effortlessly separate bones and trim fat. The ergonomic rosewood handle provides a secure grip, making shredding and carving comfortable and efficient.
When it comes to cooking and serving, the ChopChop USA Pure Titanium Utensils set offers unmatched strength and versatility. Made from 100% pure titanium, these utensils are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and non-reactive, ensuring they stay durable and safe for everyday kitchen use. Whether stirring sauces, serving carnitas, or flipping tortillas, these utensils deliver professional-grade performance.
With ChopChop USA’s titanium cutting board, boning knife, and pure titanium utensils, you’ll transform your meal preparation into a seamless, enjoyable cooking experience.
Why Should You Choose ChopChop USA?
- Premium Materials: Every ChopChop USA tool is crafted with top-grade materials like pure titanium and durable hardwoods, built to resist wear and damage from daily use.
- Exceptional Durability: Designed to last, these kitchen tools maintain their performance and appearance even after years of cooking.
- Ergonomic Design: Each product is shaped for comfort and control, allowing for extended use without hand fatigue—ideal for long prep sessions.
- Versatile Functionality: Whether you’re slicing meats, prepping vegetables, or serving meals, ChopChop USA tools handle a wide range of kitchen tasks with ease.
- Professional Performance: Trusted by home cooks and pros alike, these tools offer reliable, precise performance that elevates everyday meals.
- Smart Investment: You’re not just buying tools—you’re investing in quality equipment that enhances your entire cooking experience.
Conclusion
Pork Carnitas is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that captures the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine. Its tender, seasoned pork pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings, making it a go-to option for casual dinners or festive gatherings. Whether served in tacos, bowls, or on its own, it never disappoints. Enhance your cooking experience with reliable tools from ChopChop USA—designed to simplify prep and deliver professional results. Give this recipe a try and see how easy it is to bring bold, satisfying flavors to your kitchen with the help of smart tools and simple techniques.
FAQs
What cut of pork is best for this recipe?
Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) is the best choice. It has the ideal fat content to break down during slow cooking, resulting in tender, juicy, flavorful meat that shreds easily, crisps beautifully in the oven, and delivers mouthwatering, authentic carnitas every time.
How do I store leftover Pork Carnitas?
Let the pork cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or skillet for best texture.
Can Pork Carnitas be made spicy?
Absolutely! Increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper, chipotle powder, or diced jalapeños to the seasoning mix to dial up the heat and intensity for extra flavor.
What are some good toppings for Pork Carnitas?
Top with diced red onions, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced radishes, avocado slices, and a generous squeeze of lime. Crumbled queso fresco and a drizzle of hot sauce also enhance flavor.