15 New Mexico Carnitas Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
Carnitas, a flavorful and succulent Mexican pork dish, has been a staple in New Mexico for centuries. This slow-cooked delicacy has become a favorite not only in its home country but also around the world. The combination of tender, juicy pork and bold spices creates a mouth-watering experience that is sure to leave you wanting more. In this article, we will delve into the secrets of making the perfect New Mexico carnitas and share a tried and tested recipe that will have you feeling like a professional chef in no time.
Main Ingredients: Cornmeal, Hot Water, Vegetable Oil, Salt, Avocado
Get ready to take your taste buds on a trip to Mexico with this mouth-watering recipe for Arepas filled with tender and flavorful Carnitas and topped with creamy Guasacaca sauce. These handheld treats are perfect for a quick and delicious meal, or can be served as appetizers at your next party. The combination of savory pork and tangy sauce wrapped in a crispy cornmeal shell is a flavor explosion that you won't be able to resist.
2of 20
5-Ingredient Crispy Carnitas
Main Ingredients: Pork Tenderloin, Light Beer, Minced Garlic, Lime Juice
If you're looking for a simple and easy recipe for Carnitas, look no further. This 5-ingredient recipe delivers on flavor without requiring a lot of time and effort. The secret to the crispy texture is using a combination of both pork shoulder and pork belly. The result is juicy and tender meat with a crispy exterior that will leave you wanting more. Serve it up with some warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for the perfect taco night at home.
This classic Mexican dish is a staple in many households and for good reason. The slow-cooked pork is cooked until it falls apart, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The key to achieving the perfect flavor is marinating the pork in a blend of spices and citrus juices before cooking. Serve with your favorite toppings such as salsa, avocado, and cheese for a customizable and delicious meal.
4of 20
Carnitas Street Tacos
Main Ingredients: Corn Tortillas, Pork Carnitas, Green Cabbage, Red
Street tacos are a popular and beloved dish in Mexico, and with this recipe, you can recreate the experience at home. These mini tacos are filled with tender Carnitas, fresh cilantro and onion, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor in every bite. The best part? They're quick and easy to make, making them the perfect weeknight meal or a fun addition to your next taco night spread.
5of 20
Slow Cooker Carnitas Quesadillas
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Chipotle Powder, Black Pepper
Using a slow cooker is a game-changer when it comes to making Carnitas. This recipe takes that convenience one step further by showing you how to turn those delicious slow-cooked pork into crispy and cheesy quesadillas. With just a few simple ingredients and some assembly, you can have a satisfying and tasty meal in no time. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an added kick.
6of 20
Carnitas Enchiladas (Pork Enchiladas)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, All Purpose Flour, Chili Powder, Ground
If you're a fan of enchiladas, you have to try this recipe for Carnitas Enchiladas. The tender and flavorful pork is wrapped in warm tortillas and smothered in a rich and tangy enchilada sauce. Top with cheese and bake until melted and bubbly for a satisfying and comforting meal that the whole family will love.
7of 20
Carnitas Tacos
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Corn Tortillas, Tomatillo Salsa, White Onion
No list of Carnitas recipes would be complete without the classic Carnitas Tacos. This recipe takes the traditional taco to the next level by adding a delicious and unique salsa made with tomatillos, cilantro, and jalapenos. This fresh and tangy topping pairs perfectly with the juicy and flavorful pork, making for a taco experience you won't soon forget.
8of 20
Easy Pork Carnitas Taco Board
Main Ingredients: Pork Carnitas, Lime, White Onion, Cilantro, Chip, Blue
Looking for a fun and creative way to serve up Carnitas? This Easy Pork Carnitas Taco Board is just the thing. This recipe shows you how to assemble a beautiful and delicious spread featuring all the fixings for the perfect Carnitas taco, including homemade salsa, pickled red onions, and cilantro lime rice. Your guests will love the interactive and customizable aspect of this dish.
9of 20
Pork Carnitas Tacos With Tomatillo Salsa Verde
Main Ingredients: Salsa Verde, Tomatillos, Green Chilis, Onion, Fresh
For a twist on the classic Carnitas taco, try this recipe that uses a tangy and flavorful salsa verde made with tomatillos, jalapenos, and garlic. The bright and fresh flavors of the salsa perfectly complement the rich and tender pork, creating a taco that is bursting with flavor. Serve with your favorite toppings and a squeeze of lime for a delicious and satisfying meal.
10of 20
Carnitas Soup
Main Ingredients: Chicken Stock, Yukon Gold Potatoes, Carnitas, Salsa
Looking for a way to warm up on a chilly day? Look no further than this recipe for Carnitas Soup. This hearty and comforting soup is loaded with chunks of tender pork, vegetables, and spices for a bowl of goodness that will warm you up from the inside out. Serve with some warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
11of 20
Healthy Chicken Carnitas Burrito Bowl
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Black Beans, Whole Kernel Corn, Plum
If you're looking for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor, this Healthy Chicken Carnitas Burrito Bowl is the recipe for you. This dish features all the classic flavors of Carnitas, but with a twist – using chicken instead of pork. The result is a leaner and lighter version of the traditional dish, packed with protein and vegetables. It's a great option for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
12of 20
Carnitas Caldo (Carnitas Soup)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Chayote, Garlic, Chicken Broth
Carnitas Caldo, also known as Carnitas Soup, is a traditional Mexican dish that is perfect for warming up on a cold day or when you're feeling under the weather. It's made with tender and flavorful pork, vegetables, and spices, creating a rich and comforting broth that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Serve with some warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete and delicious meal.
13of 20
Carnitas Pizza
Main Ingredients: Pizza Dough, Salsa Verde, Mozzarella Cheese, Carnitas
Yes, you read that right – Carnitas Pizza. This unique and delicious recipe takes the classic Italian dish and gives it a Mexican twist. The pizza is topped with tender and flavorful Carnitas, salsa, cheese, and your choice of toppings. It's a fun and creative way to enjoy the flavors of Carnitas in a whole new way.
14of 20
Carnitas Lettuce Wraps With Cherry Peach Salsa
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Cherries, Peach, Cilantro, Lime, Pepper
For a lighter and healthier option, try these Carnitas Lettuce Wraps with a delicious cherry peach salsa. The combination of sweet and tangy fruit with the savory and tender pork is a match made in heaven. The lettuce wraps add a refreshing crunch, making for a satisfying and delicious meal that won't leave you feeling weighed down.
Main Ingredients: Frozen Corn Kernels, Queso Fresco, Fresh Cilantro
For a fun and unique twist on the classic quesadilla, try these Carnitas Pupusadillas, also known as Triple Decker Carnitas Quesadillas. This recipe shows you how to stack three layers of tortillas, filled with juicy and flavorful Carnitas, cheese, and salsa for a hearty and delicious treat. Serve with some fresh guacamole and sour cream for the perfect finishing touch.
16of 20
Carnitas Burrito Bowl
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Black Beans, Sweet Corn Kernels, Salsa, Lime
For a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love, try this recipe for a Carnitas Burrito Bowl. It's loaded with all the delicious flavors of Carnitas, combined with rice, beans, and your choice of toppings. It's a great option for a busy weeknight or for a make-your-own-burrito-bowl bar at your next gathering.
17of 20
Pork Carnitas Burrito Bowl
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Salt, Pepper, Dried Oregano
If you prefer pork over chicken, this recipe for a Pork Carnitas Burrito Bowl is sure to become a new favorite. It's similar to the chicken version, but with the added rich and flavorful pork. It's a great way to switch things up and enjoy the classic flavors of Carnitas in a different way.
18of 20
Carnitas Enchiladas
Main Ingredients: Pork Carnitas, Pinto Beans, Rice, Green Chilis, Cotija
Enchiladas are a classic and beloved Mexican dish, and this recipe for Carnitas Enchiladas is no exception. The juicy and tender pork is wrapped in warm tortillas and smothered in a savory and tangy enchilada sauce. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly for a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
19of 20
Carnitas Burrito
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Tortillas, Cooked White Rice, Cilantro, Black
If you're a fan of burritos, you have to try this recipe for a Carnitas Burrito. The tender and flavorful pork is combined with rice, beans, and your choice of toppings, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. It's a quick and easy meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner, and can be easily customized to suit your preferences.
20of 20
Carnitas Nachos
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Jack Cheese, Pinto
Nachos are a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for game day or movie night. Take them to the next level with this recipe for Carnitas Nachos. The crispy and crunchy tortilla chips are topped with juicy and flavorful Carnitas, cheese, and all your favorite toppings. Serve with some salsa and guacamole for a delicious and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
Pork Shoulder:
One of the key components of any carnitas recipe is the cut of pork used. In New Mexico, the preferred cut is pork shoulder, also known as pork butt. This cut is marbled with fat, making it perfect for slow cooking, as it keeps the meat moist and adds flavor. When choosing your pork shoulder, look for a piece with a good balance of meat and fat to ensure a tender and juicy end result.
Spices:
No carnitas recipe is complete without a blend of spices to give it that bold and authentic flavor. In New Mexico, the most commonly used spices are cumin, oregano, chili powder, and garlic. These spices not only add a depth of flavor to the dish but also give it a beautiful red hue. Make sure to use fresh spices for the best results.
Orange Juice:
One ingredient that sets New Mexico carnitas apart from other variations is the addition of orange juice. This adds a subtle sweetness and tanginess to the dish, balancing out the heat from the spices. Make sure to use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
Method:
To prepare your New Mexico carnitas, start by seasoning your pork shoulder with a generous amount of cumin, oregano, chili powder, and garlic. Massage the spices into the meat, making sure it is evenly coated. Next, place the pork in a slow cooker and add enough orange juice to cover about half of the meat. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is fork-tender.
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the shredded pork, along with some of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has evaporated and the pork is slightly crispy. Serve your New Mexico carnitas in warm tortillas with your choice of toppings, such as salsa, avocado, and cilantro.
In conclusion, the key to making the perfect New Mexico carnitas lies in the combination of the right cut of pork, a blend of bold spices, and the addition of orange juice. With this recipe, you can recreate the flavors of New Mexico in the comfort of your own home. So gather your ingredients and get cooking, because once you try this mouth-watering dish, you'll never go back to store-bought carnitas again.
