Gather ’round, my friends, because today we’re diving into one of my all-time favorite comfort foods—carnitas! Ah, the very mention of it brings back memories of warm family gatherings, the heady aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen, and hearty laughter around the dinner table. There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about this dish that evokes the spirit of cozy get-togethers and festive celebrations. Picture this: tender, juicy pieces of pork, perfectly seasoned, falling apart at the touch and ready to be stuffed into warm tortillas or served over rice. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.

As we embrace the cooler months, it’s the perfect time to whip up a batch of carnitas. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this dish is versatile and full of flavor. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking—you’re going to love how easy it is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super easy to make—toss it all in the pot and let it work its magic!
Budget-friendly—pork shoulder is generally affordable and serves a crowd.
Comforting flavors that warm you from the inside out.
Versatile—perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or even on its own!
Make-ahead friendly, freeing up your time for more important things (like napping!).

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients and let’s get started!

3-4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt), cut into large chunks
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves fresh garlic, smashed (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered!)
1 cup orange juice (fresh-squeezed if you can!)
1-2 limes, juiced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon chili powder (or more, depending on your spice tolerance)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: bay leaves, for extra flavor
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Tortillas, for serving
Your favorite toppings—avocado, onions, radishes, salsa, you name it!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, friend, let’s get into the good stuff! Here’s how to make scrumptious carnitas that will have everyone asking for seconds:

Prep your pork: Start with that beautiful pork shoulder. Cut it into large chunks, about 2-3 inches wide. You want them big enough to hold onto all that juicy goodness!
Season it up: In a large bowl, mix together the cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Take those pork chunks and rub the spice mixture all over them. Get hands-on, my friend! This is how you infuse flavor.
Load it up: In a slow cooker or a heavy-duty pot, add the onion, smashed garlic, and pork. Pour the orange juice and lime juice over the top. If you have bay leaves, toss those in too!
Cook time: If you’re using a slow cooker, cover it and cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. If you’re using a pot on the stove, bring it to a simmer, cover, and cook on low for about 3-4 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
Shred it: Once the pork is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and set it on a cutting board. Let it cool for a few minutes, then shred it with two forks—trust me, this will be the most satisfying part!
Finish it off: You can either serve the carnitas as-is or for an extra level of flavor, you can broil them. Spread the shredded meat on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little bit of the cooking liquid. Broil for about 5-10 minutes until the edges are crispy. Perfection!

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that you’ve got the base recipe down, let’s chat about some fun twists and tips!

Spice It Up: Feel free to add more heat with jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne if you like it hot!
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves can update the profile beautifully.
Sweet Twist: Some people like to add a splash of soda (like cola) to the cooking liquid for a hint of sweetness. Give it a try!
Diet Swaps: You can use chicken thighs for a lighter version, or even jackfruit if you’re trying to go vegan—just adjust the cooking time!

Serving Suggestions

Alright, let’s talk presentation! When it comes to serving your mouthwatering carnitas, the possibilities are endless:

Tacos: Grab some fresh corn or flour tortillas, pile them high with shredded carnitas, and top with avocado, chopped onions, and fresh cilantro.
Burrito Bowls: Layer it up with rice, black beans, and all your favorite toppings. It’s a fiesta in a bowl!
Salads: Toss some carnitas over a fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette for a flavorful twist.
Enjoy it solo: Sometimes, it’s just nice to grab a fork and dig in with no frills!

Visualize it all—everyone gathered around the table, plates piled high, and the scent of spices filling the air. It’s the kind of meal that makes your heart sing!

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store your delicious carnitas:

Refrigerate: Allow the carnitas to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the shredded meat! Just make sure to pack it in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: To reheat, just simmer on the stove with a splash of broth or the reserved cooking liquid until warmed through. If you’re reheating from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight first.

FAQs

Can I make carnitas in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Simply follow the same prep steps, then cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes. Let it naturally release, shred, and you’re good to go!

What type of meat is best for carnitas?

Pork shoulder is your best bet for tender, juicy carnitas. It has the right amount of fat to keep it moist while cooking.

Can I add vegetables to the cooking process?

Definitely! Try adding some peppers or carrots for extra flavor. Just make sure they’re roughly the same size as your pork chunks for even cooking.

What can I serve with carnitas besides tortillas?

Try pairing it with rice, beans, or even on a salad. It’s versatile enough to go with just about anything!

How can I make this dish healthier?

For a lighter version, swap out the pork for chicken thighs or turkey. You can also load it up with more veggies for added nutrients!

Conclusion

And there you have it—melt-in-your-mouth carnitas that will have your taste buds dancing! I can’t wait for you to make this recipe and savor the deliciousness. Seriously, take a moment to enjoy the process, let the aroma fill your kitchen, and gather loved ones around the table to share in the feast.

If you give this recipe a try (and I hope you do!), I’d love to hear how it turns out. Feel free to drop a comment below, share your own twists, or any fun memories that come to mind when you think of carnitas. Happy cooking, and may your meals be filled with flavor and love!