Traditional Carnitas | Mexican Street Food

pork shoulder

🥗Healthier: pork loin

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Pork loin is leaner while chicken thighs provide a budget-friendly protein option.

orange juice

🥗Healthier: fresh orange juice

💰Cheaper: citrus juice blend

Fresh juice enhances flavor, while blends are often cheaper.

corn tortillas

🥗Healthier: whole wheat tortillas

💰Cheaper: flour tortillas

Whole wheat offers more fiber, while flour tortillas are often less expensive.

Select the parts of pork you prefer (shoulder, loin, butt or leg, tripe, kidneys, rind).

Season the pork with coarse sea salt.

In a large pot, simmer the selected pork parts in lard until tender over low heat.

Prepare homemade tacos by mixing mixtamalized corn masa with lard, warm water, and a pinch of salt, then form into tortillas.

For salsa verde cruda, blend tomatillos, cilantro, avocados, jalapenos, and optional garlic and onion with a pinch of salt.

Serve the carnitas with lime, chopped onions, and cilantro.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: