Pati Jinich - Irresistible, Caramelized Brown Sugar Carnitas

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index.

pork shoulder

🥗Healthier: chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: pork butt

Chicken thighs offer a leaner option.

orange juice

🥗Healthier: fresh orange juice

💰Cheaper: orange drink

Fresh juice is healthier and more flavorful.

jalapeño

🥗Healthier: bell pepper

💰Cheaper: banana pepper

Bell peppers are milder and widely available.

Melt 1 cup of lard in a large pot.

Cut boneless pork butt into 2 to 3-inch pieces.

Season pork with 2 teaspoons of salt and black pepper.

Brown the pork pieces in the melted lard to create a crust.

Puree 1 1/2 cups of milk, 2 cloves of garlic, and 1/4 white onion until smooth.

Add the browned pork to the pot and pour in the milk mixture.

Reduce heat to medium-low and add 2 bay leaves.

Cover and cook for about 1 hour and 15 minutes until the pork is tender.

Add 1/2 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of sugar to the pot and cook for another 5-6 minutes to caramelize the pork.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: