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Authentic Michoacan Mexican Carnitas Recipe | Easy & Delicious | Perfect for Tacos, Tamales & Sopes

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CookingwithGloria
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Recipe Information

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Video-Specific Recipe

Carnitas

Cultural Context

Carnitas, meaning 'little meats' in Spanish, is a traditional Mexican dish that originated in the state of Michoacán. It is typically made by braising pork in its own fat until tender and then crisping it up. Carnitas are often served in tacos or burritos and are a staple in Mexican cuisine, celebrated for their rich flavor and versatility.

MexicanMXmain
240 min
medium
6 servings
Servings4
8 pounds of pork shoulder
1 orange
1/2 onion
6 garlic cloves
1 cup of orange juice
1 evaporated milk
1 Coca Cola
2 tbs of salt
2 bay leaves
1 pound of lard

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.

1

Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks.

2

Season the pork with salt and garlic.

3

In a large pot, heat lard over medium heat.

4

Add the pork chunks and sear until browned on all sides.

5

Pour in the orange juice and add the onion, bay leaves, and Coca Cola.

6

Cover and simmer on low heat until the pork is tender.

7

Remove the pork and shred it using two forks.

8

Increase heat and reduce the cooking liquid until thickened.

9

Return the shredded pork to the pot and mix well with the reduced liquid.

Cooking Techniques

searingsimmeringshredding

Equipment Needed

large potcutting boardknifeforks

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Dietary

gluten-freedairy-free

Also Known As

Mexican pulled porkCarnitas de cerdo
Local Name: Carnitas

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