Authentic Mexican Carnitas

Savor the irresistible flavors of Authentic Mexican Carnitas, a traditional dish that highlights perfectly seasoned, slow-cooked pork shoulder. Prepared with rich spices like cumin and oregano, aromatic garlic, and the citrusy zing of fresh orange juice, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering balance of tender and crispy textures. Cooked low and slow in lard (or vegetable oil) for added depth, the pork is then browned to perfection in its own rendered fat, making each bite both succulent and satisfyingly crunchy. Ideal for serving in warm tortillas, these carnitas pair beautifully with fresh toppings like cilantro, diced onion, and a squeeze of lime for a true taste of Mexico. Whether for tacos, burritos, or simply enjoyed on their own, this dish is destined to become a favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:240 mins

Total Time:255 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 4 pounds Pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 tablespoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon Dried oregano
• 3 pieces Bay leaves
• 1 medium Onion, quartered
• 6 pieces Garlic cloves, peeled
• 1 large Orange, juiced
• 1 cup Lard (or vegetable oil)
• 2 cups Water

Directions

Step 1

Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut the meat into large 4-inch chunks.

Step 2

In a large dutch oven or heavy pot, add the pork chunks. Season generously with salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Toss to coat all the pieces evenly.

Step 3

Add the bay leaves, quartered onion, and garlic cloves to the pot with the seasoned pork.

Step 4

Pour in the fresh orange juice and add enough water to just barely cover the meat.

Step 5

Add one cup of lard or vegetable oil to the pot for added flavor and to assist in crisping.

Step 6

Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring the liquid to a simmer without covering.

Step 7

Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low, allowing it to gently simmer uncovered for about 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the liquid to evaporate and the pork to tenderize.

Step 8

Once the liquid has mostly evaporated (around the 2.5-hour mark), increase the heat to medium-high to brown the pork in its rendered fat for about 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 9

Once the pork is deeply browned and crispy on the outside, yet tender inside, remove it from the pot using a slotted spoon.

Step 10

Let the carnitas cool slightly, then shred it with two forks before serving.

Step 11

Serve in warm tortillas with your choice of toppings such as cilantro, diced onion, and lime wedges.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2873.8 grams (2873.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	6863

Total Fat 601.80g	772%
Saturated Fat 219.90g	1100%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 1495mg	498%
Sodium 8389mg	365%
Total Carbohydrate 43.30g	16%
Dietary Fiber 5.40g	19%
Total Sugars 20.40g
Protein 332.20g	664%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 415mg	32%
Iron 28mg	155%
Potassium 5761mg	123%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 78.3%

Protein: 19.2%

Carbs: 2.5%