DIY Pulled Pork Carnitas: The Perfect Meal for Every Occasion, with Step-by-Step Instructions

Craving mouthwatering, tender, and flavorful pulled pork carnitas? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen. From selecting the perfect cut of pork to mastering the cooking techniques, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to make pulled pork carnitas that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 5 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup lime juice
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment:

• Slow cooker or Dutch oven
• Tongs
• Two forks
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

2. Season the Pork:

Place the pork shoulder in the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands to massage the marinade into the pork, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

3. Cook the Pork:

Transfer the pork and marinade to a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is fall-off-the-bone tender.

4. Shred the Pork:

Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

5. Crisp the Pork (Optional):

For a crispier texture, transfer the shredded pork to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Broil on high for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the pulled pork carnitas on warm tortillas, tacos, or over rice. Top with your favorite toppings, such as cilantro, onion, salsa, guacamole, or cheese.

Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork Carnitas:

• Use a bone-in pork shoulder for more flavor and juiciness.
• Don’t overcook the pork. It should be tender but not dry.
• If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the pork in a Dutch oven on the stovetop over low heat.
• Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding to allow the juices to redistribute.
• For a sweeter carnitas, add a bit more brown sugar to the marinade.
• For a spicier carnitas, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.

Variations:

• Pineapple Carnitas: Add a cup of chopped pineapple to the marinade for a tropical twist.
• Mango Carnitas: Substitute the orange juice with mango juice for a fruity flavor.
• Guajillo Carnitas: Add 2-3 dried guajillo chiles to the marinade for a smoky and spicy kick.

Recommendations:

Mastering the art of how to make pulled pork carnitas is a culinary adventure that will reward your taste buds with a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create this Mexican classic in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re serving it for a party or a cozy family meal, your pulled pork carnitas will surely become a favorite.

What You Need to Learn

Q: How long can I marinate the pork?
A: You can marinate the pork for as long as overnight, but 4 hours is the minimum recommended time.

Q: Can I use boneless pork shoulder?
A: Yes, you can use boneless pork shoulder, but it will not be as flavorful as bone-in pork shoulder.

Q: What is the best way to shred the pork?
A: Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. This method gives you more control over the size of the shreds.

Q: Can I freeze pulled pork carnitas?
A: Yes, you can freeze pulled pork carnitas in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Q: What is the best way to reheat pulled pork carnitas?
A: You can reheat pulled pork carnitas in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.