Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Recipe
If you’re craving something savory and satisfying, you’ll absolutely love this Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas recipe.
It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for tacos, burritos, or even just on its own. The combination of citrus juices and spices creates a flavor explosion that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Plus, the cooking methods make it easy—whether you prefer the Instant Pot for a quick meal or the slow cooker for that melt-in-your-mouth goodness, you can’t go wrong.
Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. You won’t be disappointed!
Ingredients of Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal, having the right ingredients is half the battle. For this Pork Carnitas recipe, you’ll need a mix of savory spices, citrusy goodness, and of course, some good quality pork. Don’t worry, I promise it’s not complicated at all. Just gather these items, and you’ll be on your way to creating something that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Ready? Let’s explore the ingredient list.
- 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder, trimmed of excess fat
- 3/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon dried ancho chile powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (you can go up to 1/2 tsp if you like it spicy)
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Warmed corn tortillas, for serving
- Diced yellow onions and cilantro, for garnish
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients a bit. First off, the pork shoulder is key here. It’s the star of the show, and the marbling in the meat helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave.
If you can, opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients—trust me, it makes a difference. And while we’re on the topic of fresh, don’t skip out on the lime and orange juice; their zesty flavors are what give this dish that zing!
Feel free to tweak the spices to your liking, too. Maybe you like it a little spicier or prefer a more subtle flavor profile. This recipe is forgiving, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Who knows, you might just create your own little twist on this classic!
How to Make Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
Alright, let’s plunge into making some mouthwatering Pork Carnitas, shall we? Whether you’re going for the Instant Pot or the Slow Cooker, the process is pretty straightforward, and the aromas that will fill your kitchen are enough to make anyone’s stomach rumble.
If you’re using the Slow Cooker, start by taking that glorious 3 lbs of boneless pork shoulder and placing it right in the pot. Now, let’s add some zest to the mix: pour in 3/4 cup of low sodium chicken broth, followed up by 3/4 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice and 3 tablespoons of fresh lime juice. It’s like a citrus party in there.
Then, sprinkle in the spices—2 teaspoons of salt (or more if you’re feeling cheeky), 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of dried Mexican oregano, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, 1 teaspoon of dried ancho chile powder, and finally, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (or 1/2 teaspoon if you’re a spice lover).
Don’t forget the chopped yellow onion and 6 minced garlic cloves. Cover it up and let it do its magic on low heat for 8 hours. Yes, you read that right—8 hours. Perfect for those slow, cozy days when you want to take it easy.
Now, if you’re in a bit of a hurry (who isn’t sometimes?), the Instant Pot is your best friend. Cut that same 3 lbs pork shoulder into four chunks and toss them into the pot. Add in all the same liquids and spices as before—it’s like déjà vu but with deliciousness.
Seal the lid, set the valve to sealing, and select high pressure for 60 minutes. Once that’s done, let it naturally release pressure for 10 minutes before you do the quick release to let the rest of the steam out. Now, please be careful of that steam; it can be a bit sassy.
Once you’ve got the pork out, it’s time to shred it. You can use two forks or go all out with your hands—just make sure to let it cool a bit first unless you’re a fan of hot, sticky fingers.
After shredding, take that delicious pork and place it on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little vegetable oil and toss it around to coat. Now, it’s broiling time! Preheat your broiler and pop that baking sheet in there until the pork gets nice and crispy, about 3 to 6 minutes.
Keep an eye on it; you don’t want to step away and come back to a charred mess. Once it’s all crispy and golden, serve it up with warmed corn tortillas, diced onions, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Your friends and family will be begging for the recipe, and you can bask in the glory of your culinary skills. Enjoy!
Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basic recipe for Pork Carnitas, it’s fun to explore some substitutions and variations to make the dish your own.
For a different flavor, try using a pork loin instead of shoulder, or add pineapple juice for sweetness. If you’re looking for a kick, toss in some jalapeños or chipotle peppers.
You can also swap out the spices—experiment with smoked paprika or fresh herbs like cilantro.
For a lighter version, use turkey or chicken instead of pork.
Don’t hesitate to play around with the citrus juices, too; a splash of lime or lemon can brighten everything up!
What to Serve with Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
While you can enjoy Pork Carnitas on their own, pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal.
I love serving them with warm corn tortillas, allowing everyone to build their own tacos. Fresh toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and avocado add brightness and flavor.
A side of Mexican street corn or a zesty slaw complements the richness of the carnitas perfectly. For something invigorating, a simple cucumber salad or guacamole works wonders.
Don’t forget a splash of lime over everything to tie the flavors together. These pairings make the meal even more enjoyable and satisfying!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Pork Carnitas turn out perfectly, I’ve got a few additional tips to keep in mind.
First, don’t skip the broiling step; it adds that delicious crispy texture. If you love a bit of heat, adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste—start small and build up.
I also recommend letting the pork rest for a few minutes after shredding; it enhances the flavor.
Finally, try experimenting with the spices—add a pinch of cinnamon or swap out the coriander for something different. Trust me, these small tweaks can elevate your dish to the next level! Enjoy!