15 Mexican Pork Carnitas Recipe Oven Experience Flavor Like Never Before!
Published on: Mar 21, 2024
Pork carnitas are a popular Mexican dish that originated in the state of Michoacán, Mexico. Traditionally, it is made by braising or slow-cooking pork in lard until it is tender and then shredding it for use in tacos, burritos, or other dishes. However, with this delicious oven recipe, you can achieve the same flavorful and tender results without the hassle of cooking it on the stovetop. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making mouth-watering Mexican pork carnitas in the oven.
Add a flavorful twist to your classic beer can chicken recipe with this Mexican-inspired pork carnitas. The combination of juicy chicken and tender pork, infused with bold spices and tangy lime, will leave your taste buds begging for more. This is a must-try recipe for any beer can chicken lover!
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Mexican Pork Carnitas Torta
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Bolillos, Tomato Slices, Onion Slices
Treat yourself to a taste of Mexico with this mouthwatering pork carnitas torta. Layered with succulent pulled pork, creamy avocado, tangy pickled jalapeños, and a drizzle of spicy chipotle mayo, this sandwich is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Serve it up with a cold beer and you've got the perfect meal for any occasion.
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Carnitas Street Tacos
Main Ingredients: Corn Tortillas, Pork Carnitas, Green Cabbage, Red
If you're craving authentic Mexican street food, look no further than these carnitas street tacos. Tender and flavorful pulled pork, wrapped in a warm corn tortilla and topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of zesty lime, make for the ultimate handheld delight. Trust us, one bite and you'll be hooked.
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Slow Cooker Carnitas Quesadillas
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Chipotle Powder, Black Pepper
Take your beer can chicken game to the next level with these mouthwatering slow cooker carnitas quesadillas. The tender pork, infused with rich spices and a touch of beer, pairs perfectly with gooey melted cheese and crispy tortillas. Serve them up as a delicious appetizer or a hearty meal.
Who says beer can chicken can't be fancy? This Mexican lasagna combines layers of succulent pulled chicken, spicy pork carnitas, and creamy cheese sauce, all topped off with a crispy tortilla crust. It's a unique twist on a classic dish that is sure to impress your taste buds.
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Pork Carnita Tacos
Main Ingredients: Pork Butt Roast, Salt, Cumin, Coconut Oil, Onion
Upgrade your taco game with these flavorful pork carnita tacos. The combination of tender pulled pork, zesty lime, and a touch of spice, all wrapped in a warm tortilla and topped with your favorite fixings, is a match made in heaven. These tacos are perfect for any day of the week.
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Mexican Cuban Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Ham Slices, Cheese, Pickled Jalapenos
Transport yourself to the streets of Cuba with this delicious Mexican twist on a classic Cuban sandwich. Tender pork carnitas, tangy pickles, creamy avocado, and zesty mustard, all layered between crusty bread and pressed to perfection. This sandwich is a flavor explosion you won't want to miss.
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Carnitas Enchiladas (Pork Enchiladas)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, All Purpose Flour, Chili Powder, Ground
Put a spin on your traditional beer can chicken with these mouthwatering carnitas enchiladas. Tender pulled pork, wrapped in a warm tortilla and smothered in a rich and spicy enchilada sauce, then topped with cheese and baked to perfection. It's a delicious and hearty meal that will have your family begging for seconds.
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Posole Rojo (Mexican Pork and Hominy Stew)
Main Ingredients: Guajillo, Salt, White Hominy, Pork Shoulder, Garlic
Warm up on a cold day with this hearty and flavorful posole rojo. Tender pork carnitas, hominy, and a blend of rich spices and herbs, simmered to perfection in a savory broth. This traditional Mexican stew is the ultimate comfort food that will keep you coming back for more.
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Mexican Quinoa Bowl with Chipotle Vinaigrette
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Vinaigrette, Quinoa, Tomatoes, Avocados
For a healthy and flavorful twist on beer can chicken, try this Mexican quinoa bowl with chipotle vinaigrette. Tender pulled chicken, mixed with quinoa, black beans, corn, and a zesty chipotle dressing, make for a nutrient-packed and delicious meal. It's a perfect option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
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Easy Pork Carnitas Taco Board
Main Ingredients: Pork Carnitas, Lime, White Onion, Cilantro, Chip, Blue
Impress your guests with this easy and delicious pork carnitas taco board. Tender pulled pork, warm tortillas, and an array of toppings, including fresh salsa, guacamole, and cheese, are all served on a beautiful board for a fun and interactive dining experience. It's a great option for a party or gathering.
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Pork Carnitas Tacos With Tomatillo Salsa Verde
Main Ingredients: Salsa Verde, Tomatillos, Green Chilis, Onion, Fresh
Take your taco game up a notch with these flavorful pork carnitas tacos topped with tangy tomatillo salsa verde. The combination of tender pulled pork, zesty lime, and spicy salsa is a match made in heaven. Serve them up with a cold beer and you've got the perfect meal for any occasion.
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Whole30 Chilaquiles with Carnitas and Sweet Potatoes...
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Avocado Oil, Salt, Pepper, Salsa
For a healthy twist on your classic beer can chicken recipe, try these Whole30 chilaquiles with carnitas and sweet potatoes. The combination of tender pulled pork, crispy sweet potatoes, and a spicy tomato sauce, all topped off with a fried egg, is a delicious and guilt-free option for any meal.
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Sopes
Main Ingredients: Masa Harina, Salt, Water, Corn Oil, Lard, Refried
Add a taste of Mexico to your beer can chicken routine with these flavorful sopes. Tender pulled pork, creamy avocado, tangy pickled onions, and a drizzle of spicy salsa, all served on a crispy corn masa base. It's a unique and delicious way to enjoy your favorite Mexican flavors.
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Loaded Carnitas Tacos With Avocado Tomatillo Salsa
Main Ingredients: Tomatillos, Jalapeno, Garlic, Avocado, Cilantro, Salt
Upgrade your taco game with these loaded carnitas tacos topped with a creamy avocado tomatillo salsa. The combination of tender pork, zesty lime, and spicy salsa, all wrapped in a warm tortilla and topped with fresh ingredients, is a flavor explosion you won't want to miss.
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Pulled pork enchiladas
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Pinto Beans, Cooked Rice, Chopped Green
Put a spin on your traditional beer can chicken with these mouthwatering pulled pork enchiladas. Tender pork, wrapped in a warm tortilla and smothered in a rich and spicy enchilada sauce, then topped with cheese and baked to perfection. It's a delicious and hearty meal that will have your family begging for seconds.
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Pork Carnitas Burrito Bowl
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Salt, Pepper, Dried Oregano
For a healthy and flavorful option, try this pork carnitas burrito bowl. Tender pulled pork, mixed with rice, beans, and an array of fresh toppings, all served in a bowl for a colorful and delicious meal. It's a great option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
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Pork Verde Tostadas
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Herdez Salsa Verde, Shredded Cabbage
Put a twist on your classic beer can chicken with these pork verde tostadas. Tender pulled pork, mixed with a tangy and flavorful verde sauce, served on a crispy corn tortilla and topped with fresh ingredients, make for a delicious and unique meal. It's a great option for a fun and interactive dinner.
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Carnitas Enchiladas (Pulled Pork Enchiladas)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, All Purpose Flour, Chili Powder, Ground
Upgrade your enchilada game with these mouthwatering carnitas enchiladas. Tender pulled pork, wrapped in a warm tortilla and smothered in a rich and spicy enchilada sauce, then topped with cheese and baked to perfection. It's a delicious and hearty meal that will have your family begging for seconds.
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Stovetop Citrus Carnitas with Pickled Jalapeño and Red...
Main Ingredients: Jalapeno, Red Onion, Fresh Lime Juice, Red Wine
For a quick and flavorful option, try these stovetop citrus carnitas with pickled jalapeño and red onion. The combination of tender pork, tangy citrus, and zesty jalapeño and onion, all served in a warm tortilla, is a delicious and easy meal that will satisfy your cravings in no time.
Preparing the Meat
Mexican Pork Carnitas Recipe: Oven Edition
To make authentic Mexican pork carnitas, you will need to start with a boneless pork butt or shoulder. This cut of meat is perfect for braising and will result in juicy and flavorful carnitas. Begin by trimming off any excess fat from the meat and then cut it into large chunks. It is important to leave some fat on the meat as it will add flavor and keep the meat moist during cooking.
Mexican Spice Rub
Now it's time to add some flavor to the pork. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of ground cumin, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of oregano, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Rub this mixture all over the meat, making sure to cover each piece evenly.
Braising the Pork
Perfectly Tender and Flavorful Carnitas
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork pieces and sear them on all sides until they are browned. This will help seal in the juices and give the meat a nice crispy exterior.
Next, add 1 sliced onion, 1 sliced orange, and 3 crushed garlic cloves to the pot. These ingredients will add even more flavor to the carnitas. Then, pour in 1 cup of orange juice and 1 cup of chicken broth to the pot. The liquid should come about halfway up the meat.
Cover and Cook
Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the oven. Let the pork cook for 2-3 hours, or until it is fork-tender. Check on the meat every hour and add more liquid if needed. Once the meat is tender, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Shredding and Serving
Delicious and Versatile Pork Carnitas
Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. You can also use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for quicker shredding. Serve the carnitas in tacos, burritos, or on top of a bed of rice. The possibilities are endless!
Now that you know how to make Mexican pork carnitas in the oven, you can easily enjoy this flavorful dish any time. This recipe is perfect for a crowd or for meal prepping as the leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your cooking skills!