How to Make Traditional Mexican Carnitas at Home
Carnitas, meaning "little meats" in Spanish, are a beloved traditional Mexican dish known for their savory, tender, and flavorful characteristics. Making carnitas at home can be a rewarding culinary experience, and with this simple guide, you'll be well on your way to creating a delicious batch that your family and friends will adore.
Ingredients for Traditional Mexican Carnitas
To make authentic carnitas, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds of pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 cup of orange juice
- Water (as needed)
Instructions for Making Carnitas
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Start by cutting the pork shoulder into large chunks, roughly 2 inches in size. This will help ensure even cooking throughout the process.
Step 2: Season the Pork
In a large bowl, combine the pork pieces with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and minced garlic. Make sure that each piece of pork is evenly coated with the seasonings for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Searing the Pork
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chunks in batches, searing them until they are golden brown on all sides. This step adds a rich flavor to the carnitas.
Step 4: Cooking the Carnitas
Once all the pork is seared, return it to the pot. Add the quartered onion, bay leaves, lime juice, orange juice, and just enough water to cover the meat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart.
Step 5: Shredding the Pork
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the pot and place it on a large cutting board. Using two forks or your hands, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard any excess fat or gristle.
Step 6: Crisping the Carnitas
For that perfect texture, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little bit of the shredded carnitas into the skillet and cook until the bottom is crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Flip and repeat until all the carnitas are crisped to your liking.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Your traditional Mexican carnitas are now ready to serve! Enjoy them in tacos, burritos, or alongside rice and beans. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for the Best Carnitas
- For an even richer flavor, consider adding a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of chili powder during the cooking process.
- Make a larger batch and freeze leftovers; carnitas freeze very well and can be easily reheated later.
- Experiment with different citrus juices, such as grapefruit, for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
By following these steps, you'll be able to enjoy homemade traditional Mexican carnitas that capture the essence of authentic flavors. Perfect for any gathering or family dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!