16 Best Mexican Pork Carnitas Recipe Delight In These Amazing Recipes!
Published on: Mar 9, 2024
Pork carnitas, a traditional Mexican dish, is a crowd-pleasing favorite that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether served in tacos, burritos, or on its own, this flavorful and tender meat is a must-try for any lover of Mexican cuisine. But what makes the best Mexican pork carnitas recipe? Let's dive into the details and find out.
Main Ingredients: Pork Lard, Pork Shoulder, Onion, Whole Milk, Water
Carnitas, also known as Mexican pulled pork, is a delicious and flavorful dish that has become a staple in many Mexican households. This slow-cooked pork dish is traditionally made by braising pork in lard until it becomes tender and juicy. The result is tender, succulent meat that is perfect for tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and more.
2of 20
Pork Carnitas (Mexican Pulled Pork)
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Butt, Brown Onion, Bay Leaves, Dried
Pork carnitas is a popular variation of the traditional carnitas dish. While traditional carnitas uses pork shoulder, pork carnitas uses a mix of different pork cuts such as pork loin, pork belly, and pork shoulder. This results in a more diverse and flavorful dish that is perfect for those who want to mix things up a bit.
3of 20
Instant Pot Carnitas – Mexican Pulled Pork
Main Ingredients: Pork Butt, Kosher Salt, Garlic Salt, Ground Cumin
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy the delicious flavors of carnitas, then Instant Pot carnitas is the perfect solution for you. This recipe uses an Instant Pot to cook the pork in just a fraction of the time it would take to braise it in lard. The end result is the same tender and flavorful meat, but in a fraction of the time.
4of 20
Carnitas Enchiladas (Pulled Pork Enchiladas)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, All Purpose Flour, Chili Powder, Ground
Looking for a new and delicious way to use up your leftover carnitas? Look no further than carnitas enchiladas. These enchiladas are filled with tender pulled pork, smothered in a rich and flavorful sauce, and topped with cheese. It's a great way to use up any leftover carnitas and create a new and exciting dish.
5of 20
Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos (Carnitas)
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Sauce, Tortillas, Avocado Slices, Tomato
Tacos are a classic Mexican dish, and when filled with carnitas, they become a delicious and flavorful meal that is loved by many. The tender and juicy pulled pork pairs perfectly with fresh toppings and a squeeze of lime. It's a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy carnitas.
Mexican pork carnitas are a versatile dish that can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you're making tacos, enchiladas, or simply serving it with rice and beans, this dish is sure to be a hit. The flavorful pork is perfect for any occasion and is loved by both kids and adults alike.
7of 20
Pulled pork enchiladas
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Pinto Beans, Cooked Rice, Chopped Green
If you're a fan of both pulled pork and enchiladas, then this is the perfect dish for you. Pulled pork enchiladas combine the best of both worlds, with tender and juicy pulled pork wrapped in a tortilla and smothered in a flavorful sauce. It's a delicious and hearty meal that is sure to become a family favorite.
8of 20
Pork Carnitas Tacos With Tomatillo Salsa Verde
Main Ingredients: Salsa Verde, Tomatillos, Green Chilis, Onion, Fresh
For a twist on traditional carnitas tacos, try this recipe that incorporates a tangy and flavorful tomatillo salsa verde. The combination of tender pulled pork and zesty salsa verde creates a delicious and unique flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
9of 20
Pulled Pork Enchiladas
Main Ingredients: Plum Tomatoes, Medium White Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil
If you're looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that is easy to make, then look no further than pulled pork enchiladas. These enchiladas are filled with tender pulled pork, cheese, and your choice of toppings, and then baked to perfection. It's a great dish to make for a group or to have as leftovers for a few days.
10of 20
Carnitas Street Tacos
Main Ingredients: Corn Tortillas, Pork Carnitas, Green Cabbage, Red
Street tacos are a popular and delicious way to enjoy carnitas. These small and flavorful tacos are perfect for snacking or for a light meal. They are usually served with fresh toppings such as cilantro, onions, and lime, and are a must-try for any carnitas lover.
11of 20
Loaded Carnitas Nachos
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Pork, Corn Tortilla Chips, Shredded Cheese
If you're looking for a fun and tasty way to use up your leftover carnitas, look no further than loaded carnitas nachos. These nachos are piled high with tender pulled pork, cheese, and all your favorite toppings. It's a perfect dish for game day or a movie night at home.
12of 20
Red Pulled Pork Enchiladas with Jalapeño Corn and...
Main Ingredients: Large Flour Tortillas, Pork Carnitas, Creamed Corn
This unique and flavorful twist on traditional pulled pork enchiladas incorporates a spicy and zesty jalapeño corn and black bean mixture. The combination of tender pulled pork, cheese, and the spicy corn and black bean mixture creates a mouth-watering dish that is sure to impress.
13of 20
Slow Cooker Carnitas Quesadillas
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Chipotle Powder, Black Pepper
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy the delicious flavors of carnitas, then this recipe is for you. These slow cooker carnitas quesadillas use the convenience of a slow cooker to create tender and flavorful pulled pork that is perfect for stuffing into a cheesy quesadilla.
14of 20
Carnitas Enchiladas (Pork Enchiladas)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, All Purpose Flour, Chili Powder, Ground
For a simple and delicious twist on traditional pork enchiladas, try this recipe that uses tender and flavorful carnitas as the filling. The combination of tender pulled pork, cheese, and a rich and flavorful sauce creates a satisfying and hearty meal that is sure to please.
15of 20
Easy Pork Carnitas Taco Board
Main Ingredients: Pork Carnitas, Lime, White Onion, Cilantro, Chip, Blue
This recipe is perfect for creating a fun and interactive meal for a group. The easy pork carnitas are served on a board with all the toppings and sides, including tortillas, salsa, cheese, and more. It's a great way to get everyone involved in creating their own delicious tacos.
16of 20
Keto Pulled Pork Tacos
Main Ingredients: Cheddar, Mozzerella, Pork Tenderloin, Pork Carnitas
For those following a keto diet, this recipe is a game-changer. These keto pulled pork tacos use low-carb tortillas and are filled with tender and flavorful pulled pork, making them a delicious and guilt-free option for taco night.
17of 20
Posole Rojo (Mexican Pork and Hominy Stew)
Main Ingredients: Guajillo, Salt, White Hominy, Pork Shoulder, Garlic
Posole rojo is a traditional Mexican stew that is perfect for cold winter days. This hearty and flavorful stew is made with tender pork, hominy, and a rich and flavorful broth. It's a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion.
18of 20
Whole30 Chilaquiles with Carnitas and Sweet Potatoes...
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Avocado Oil, Salt, Pepper, Salsa
For those following a Whole30 diet, this dish is a must-try. Whole30 chilaquiles with carnitas and sweet potatoes is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of tender pulled pork, crispy sweet potatoes, and flavorful sauce is sure to become a favorite.
19of 20
Carnitas Caldo (Carnitas Soup)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Chayote, Garlic, Chicken Broth
Carnitas caldo, also known as carnitas soup, is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold days. This soup is made with tender carnitas, vegetables, and a rich and flavorful broth. It's a delicious and comforting meal that is sure to warm you up.
20of 20
Sopes
Main Ingredients: Masa Harina, Salt, Water, Corn Oil, Lard, Refried
Sopes are a traditional Mexican dish that consists of fried masa cakes topped with various toppings. They are perfect for using up leftover carnitas, as the tender and flavorful meat pairs perfectly with the crispy and savory masa cakes. Add your favorite toppings and you have a delicious and unique meal.
The Importance of the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to making the best Mexican pork carnitas, the first step is choosing the right cut of meat. While many recipes call for pork shoulder, others swear by using pork butt or even a combination of both cuts. Whichever you choose, make sure it has a good amount of marbling and fat, as this will result in juicy and flavorful carnitas.
Marinade Magic
To truly elevate your pork carnitas, a flavorful marinade is essential. While traditional recipes call for a combination of citrus juices, garlic, and spices, don't be afraid to get creative and add your own twist. Some popular additions include beer, pineapple, and even tequila for an extra kick. The key is to let the pork marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully infuse the meat.
The Slow Cooker Method
One of the secrets to achieving the perfect texture for pork carnitas is cooking it low and slow. While some recipes call for braising the meat in a Dutch oven, using a slow cooker is a more convenient and foolproof method. Simply place the marinated pork in the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 8-10 hours, until it is fork-tender and falling apart.
Crispy, Crunchy Finish
After the pork has been cooked to perfection, it's time to give it that signature crispy and crunchy finish. To achieve this, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Then, spread the shredded meat on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until the edges are crispy and golden brown. This extra step adds an irresistible texture to your pork carnitas.
Serve and Enjoy
Now that your Mexican pork carnitas are ready, all that's left to do is serve and enjoy. Whether you choose to wrap it in a warm tortilla, add it to a bowl of rice and beans, or simply enjoy it on its own, the possibilities are endless. Top it off with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime, and savor the mouth-watering flavors of this classic Mexican dish.
In conclusion, the best Mexican pork carnitas recipe is a combination of the right cut of meat, a flavorful marinade, and slow cooking for maximum tenderness. With a little bit of creativity and a lot of patience, you can easily recreate this beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. So go ahead and give it a try, and be prepared to impress your family and friends with your authentic and delicious pork carnitas.
![Pressure Cooker Pork Carnitas [Crispy Mexican Pulled Pork] | This Old Gal](https://thisoldgal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Instant-Pot-Cooker-Carnitas-Mexican-Pulled-Pork.jpg)
![Carnitas Street Tacos [Homemade] : r/food](https://i.redd.it/runjp1m04m631.jpg)
