Cooking At Home Professionally

Pork carnitas, the mouthwatering Mexican dish known for its crispy, tender, and flavorful chunks of slow-cooked pork, has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of pork carnitas, exploring its classic preparation, variations, historical significance, common uses, and of course, a delectable recipe to try at home.

The Classic Pork Carnitas Recipe:

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pounds of pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into large chunks
– 1 onion, quartered
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 orange, juiced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– 1 teaspoon of oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add the pork chunks, season with salt and pepper, and brown them on all sides until they develop a golden crust. This step is crucial for the carnitas’ signature crispy texture.

3. Once the pork is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.

4. In the same pot, add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.

5. Return the browned pork to the pot and add the quartered onion, bay leaves, cumin, and oregano.

6. Pour in the freshly squeezed orange and lime juice. These citrus juices provide a vibrant, tangy flavor to the carnitas.

7. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.

8. After simmering, increase the heat to medium-high and cook uncovered until the liquid has evaporated, and the pork becomes crispy and caramelized.

9. Serve your classic pork carnitas in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, chopped onions, and cilantro.

Variations of Pork Carnitas:

1. Crispy Pork Carnitas Tacos: The classic way to enjoy carnitas, served in soft tortillas with fresh salsa and toppings.

2. Carnitas Burritos: Wrap your carnitas in large flour tortillas with rice, beans, and cheese for a hearty meal.

3. Carnitas Bowl: Create a burrito bowl by layering carnitas over rice or lettuce, then adding your choice of toppings and sauces.

4. Carnitas Nachos: Top tortilla chips with carnitas, melted cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for a tasty snack.

The History of Pork Carnitas:

Pork carnitas have a rich history dating back to Mexico’s colonial era. Traditionally cooked in large copper cauldrons, carnitas were first made in the state of Michoacán. The name “carnitas” means “little meats,” which refers to the small, crispy pieces of pork achieved through slow cooking and frying.

Common Uses:

Pork carnitas are incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes, from tacos and burritos to salads and sandwiches. They are a staple at Mexican celebrations and street food stalls, offering a burst of flavor and texture that’s hard to resist.

Pork carnitas, with their crispy exterior and succulent interior, represent the epitome of Mexican comfort food. Whether you enjoy them in a taco, burrito, or any other creative way, their rich history and delicious taste make them a beloved dish around the world. Give our classic recipe a try, and savor the magic of homemade pork carnitas.