Carnitas in a Cast Iron Skillet

pork shoulder

🥗Healthier: pork tenderloin

💰Cheaper: pork butt

Pork tenderloin is leaner, while pork butt is often less expensive.

lard

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Olive oil is healthier, while vegetable oil can be more budget-friendly.

Introduce the recipe for carnitas and explain the cooking method due to local burn bans.

Show the 10.25 inch cast iron skillet being used for cooking.

Mention the use of the 'Will It Skillet' cookbook for inspiration but state the seasoning will differ from the recipe in the book.

Prepare the seasoning mix using Heathrow's garlic jalapeno rub, cumin, and hot smoked paprika.

Cut the orange in half and juice it, then prepare lime juice from a plastic container.

Peel and prepare 3 cloves of garlic and cut 1 small onion into quarters.

Trim heavy fat off the country style pork ribs and cut out any bones present.

Use trimmed fat to create a layer of lard in the skillet.

Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the pork ribs to coat them evenly.

Heat the skillet on medium to medium-high heat and add the fat pieces to render lard for about 30 to 60 seconds until bubbling.

Remove the fat pieces and set aside for dog treats, leaving the lard in the skillet.

Add the seasoned country style ribs to the skillet to cook them for carnitas.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: