Best Easy Pork Carnitas Recipe Stove Top
Pork carnitas are a popular Mexican dish known for their tender, juicy, and flavorful meat. Traditionally, they are slow-cooked until the pork becomes tender and crispy. However, if you don’t have a slow cooker or prefer a quicker method, you can easily make delicious pork carnitas on the stove top. Here’s a simple and tasty recipe for stove top pork carnitas that will surely satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 orange, juiced
– 2 limes, juiced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork chunks to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides until it develops a golden crust.
3. Once the pork is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until they become fragrant and slightly caramelized.
4. Pour in the orange juice and lime juice, and add the ground cumin, dried oregano, and chili powder. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the pork simmer for about 2-3 hours until it becomes tender and easily shreds with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Once the meat is tender, increase the heat to medium-high and cook uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp up the edges.
7. Remove the pot from the heat and let the pork carnitas rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Serve the pork carnitas in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, cilantro, and diced onions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use a different cut of pork for carnitas?
Yes, you can use pork butt or pork loin as alternatives to pork shoulder.
2. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can cook the pork carnitas ahead of time and reheat them before serving.
3. Can I make the recipe spicier?
Feel free to add more chili powder or even some chopped jalapeños if you prefer a spicier flavor.
4. Can I make pork carnitas in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot by following the same instructions but adjusting the cooking time to about 45 minutes on high pressure.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, pork carnitas freeze well. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bags.
6. Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?
While lime juice adds a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with lemon juice if needed.
7. Can I make pork carnitas in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker instead of the stove top. Just brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic before transferring everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
8. Can I use boneless pork for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork works well for pork carnitas.
9. Can I use a different type of meat?
Traditionally, pork is used for carnitas, but you can experiment with other meats like chicken or beef if preferred.
10. Can I make this recipe without onions and garlic?
While onions and garlic add flavor, you can omit them if you have dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
11. Can I serve pork carnitas with anything other than tortillas?
Certainly! Pork carnitas can be served over rice, in burritos, tacos, or even as a topping for nachos.
In conclusion, this easy pork carnitas recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of this traditional Mexican dish without the long cooking time. With just a few simple steps, you can create tender and delicious pork carnitas right on your stove top. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to indulge in this savory delight!