Crispy and tender pork carnitas, perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls. This recipe yields incredibly flavorful shredded pork with deliciously crispy edges.
2poundspork shoulderboneless, cut into 2-inch chunks
0.5cuporange juice
0.25cuplime juice
garlic cloves4, minced
1teaspoondried oregano
0.5teaspoonground cumin
1teaspoonsalt
0.5teaspoonblack pepper
0.5cupwater
2tablespoonslard or vegetable oilfor crisping
Instructions
Preparation Steps
In a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, combine the pork shoulder, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add the water and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily shreds.
Remove the pork from the pot using a slotted spoon and place it on a baking sheet. Shred the pork using two forks. Discard most of the liquid from the pot, leaving about 1/4 cup.
Return the shredded pork to the pot with the remaining liquid. Heat the lard or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shredded pork to the hot skillet in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches).
Cook the pork for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it is browned and crispy. Serve immediately with your favorite taco toppings, or use in other dishes.
Notes
For extra crispy carnitas, you can broil the shredded pork on a baking sheet for a few minutes after pan-frying.