Tender and Juicy: The Ultimate Guide to Making Carnitas on the Stove

Craving succulent, melt-in-your-mouth pork carnitas without firing up the oven? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to cook pork carnitas on the stovetop, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder (pork butt)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Pork:

• Trim the pork shoulder of any excess fat.
• Cut the pork into 1-inch cubes.

2. Sear the Pork:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the pork cubes and sear until browned on all sides.

3. Add Aromatics and Spices:

• Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
• Stir in the orange zest, lime zest, chicken broth, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.

4. Simmer and Shred:

• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
• Remove the pork from the skillet and shred it using two forks.

5. Season and Crisp:

• Return the shredded pork to the skillet and season to taste with additional salt and pepper.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pork is crispy and golden brown.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the pork carnitas with your favorite toppings, such as tortillas, rice, beans, salsa, and guacamole.

Tips for Perfect Carnitas

• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the pork.
• Simmer the pork for as long as possible to achieve maximum tenderness.
• Shred the pork while it is still hot to make it easier.
• Crisp the pork on high heat for a more pronounced flavor.

Variations on Pork Carnitas

• Spicy Carnitas: Add a few chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the skillet when cooking the onions and garlic.
• Sweet Carnitas: Stir in some brown sugar or honey to the cooking liquid.
• Citrusy Carnitas: Use a combination of orange, lime, and lemon juice for a refreshing twist.

How to Store and Reheat Pork Carnitas

Storage:

• Store leftover pork carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Reheat pork carnitas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Health Benefits of Pork Carnitas

• Pork carnitas are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
• They are also a good source of iron, which is important for red blood cell production.
• Pork carnitas are relatively low in calories and fat, making them a healthier option than other meat dishes.

Takeaways: The Art of Stovetop Carnitas

Cooking pork carnitas on the stovetop is a culinary adventure that will reward you with tender, flavorful meat that is perfect for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes. By following the steps outlined in this guide and experimenting with different variations, you can create mouthwatering carnitas that will become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of pork for carnitas?

Yes, you can use pork loin or pork tenderloin, but they will cook faster than pork shoulder.

2. How can I make my carnitas extra crispy?

After shredding the pork, spread it out on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes, or until crispy.

3. What can I do with leftover pork carnitas?

Use leftover carnitas in tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or quesadillas. You can also freeze them for later use.

4. How long does it take to cook pork carnitas on the stovetop?

Cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the pork, but it generally takes 2-3 hours of simmering.

5. What is the best way to shred pork carnitas?

Use two forks to pull the pork apart while it is still hot.