Carnitas Plate
Tender, juicy, slow-cooked pork, shredded and crisped to perfection. This classic Mexican-American dish is served with warm tortillas, rice, and beans for a hearty and incredibly flavorful meal.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 190 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sear the Pork
- b.Pat the pork chunks completely dry with paper towels. Season all sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
- c.Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- d.Working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, sear the pork chunks on all sides until a deep, brown crust forms, about 6-8 minutes per batch. Transfer the seared pork to a plate and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Braise the Pork
- b.Return all the seared pork to the pot. Add the quartered onion, smashed garlic, halved jalapeño, Mexican oregano, cumin, and bay leaves.
- c.Squeeze the juice from the orange and lime halves directly into the pot, then add the squeezed rinds as well.
- d.Pour in the water. Bring the mixture to a lively simmer over medium-high heat.
- e.Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it cook for 2.5 to 3 hours. The pork is done when it is exceptionally tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Shred the Pork
- b.Using tongs, carefully transfer the cooked pork to a large bowl or cutting board. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes until it's safe to handle.
- c.While the pork cools, you can strain the braising liquid through a fine-mesh sieve if you wish to remove the solids. Skim any excess fat from the top.
- d.Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Drizzle a few tablespoons of the reserved braising liquid over the shredded pork to keep it moist and flavorful.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Crisp the Carnitas
- b.Heat the lard or oil in a large cast-iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. The fat should be very hot before adding the pork.
- c.Add a single layer of the shredded pork to the skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
- d.Cook the pork, undisturbed, for 3-5 minutes, until the bottom layer is deeply browned and crispy.
- e.Flip the pork and briefly cook for another 1-2 minutes to crisp up the other side. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.While the pork is crisping, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet, over a gas flame, or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave.
- c.Divide the crispy carnitas, warm Mexican rice, and refried beans among four plates.
- d.Garnish with finely diced white onion and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the pork.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use lard for crisping the pork. It creates a uniquely rich and savory crust.
- 2Don't skip the searing step! It builds a deep flavor foundation for the entire dish through the Maillard reaction.
- 3The citrus not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat during the long braise.
- 4Pork shoulder (or butt) is essential for great carnitas. Its high fat content melts during cooking, keeping the meat incredibly moist and tender.
- 5Carnitas are perfect for meal prep. Complete steps 1-3, then store the shredded pork in its braising liquid in the fridge for up to 4 days. Crisp it up just before serving.
- 6To reheat leftovers, warm the pork in a hot skillet with a little oil or lard until heated through and re-crisped.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spice Profile
For a more traditional Michoacán-style flavor, add a cinnamon stick and a few whole cloves to the braising liquid.
MeatMeat
While pork shoulder is classic, you can also make carnitas with well-marbled pork loin or even chicken thighs, though cooking times will need to be adjusted.
Cooking MethodCooking Method
This recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker (6-8 hours on low) or an Instant Pot (45 minutes on high pressure, followed by natural release).
Serving StyleServing Style
Instead of a plate, serve the carnitas in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or on top of nachos.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Pork is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair, growth, and overall function. A single serving of this dish provides a significant portion of your daily protein needs.
Rich in B Vitamins
Pork shoulder is a good source of several B vitamins, particularly niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. These vitamins are crucial for energy metabolism, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells.
Provides Essential Minerals
This dish offers important minerals like selenium, a powerful antioxidant, and zinc, which is vital for immune system function and wound healing.
Frequently asked questions
This Carnitas Plate is a very hearty and calorie-dense meal. While it's an excellent source of protein from the pork, it is also high in fat and sodium. It's best enjoyed as an occasional treat or in smaller portions if you are monitoring your calorie and fat intake.