Carnitas (Mexican Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork)

Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Mexico with this delectable carnitas recipe. The succulent pork, infused with aromatic spices and a hint of citrus, pairs perfectly with a tangy tomatillo salsa. Simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor, this dish will be a sure hit at any gathering.

Ingredients:

For the Salsa:

• 🌿 5 tomatillos
• 🧅 Small piece of onion
• 🧄 1 garlic clove
• 🌶️ 3 jalapeños
• 🧂 Salt to taste
  For the Carnitas:
• 🍖 2 pounds of pork loin or pork butt
• 🧂 2 tablespoons of salt
• 🥄 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
• 🧄 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 🧅 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 🍊 1 cup of fresh orange juice
• 🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 🧈 2 tablespoons of pork lard
• 🍃 2 bay leaves
• 🧄 2 garlic cloves
• 🌿 2 cloves
• 🥤 120 ounces Coca-Cola
  For Serving:
• 🥬 Shredded cabbage
• 🍋 Limes
• 🍅 Tomatillo salsa
• 🌮 Tortillas

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salsa:
   • In a small pot with water, boil the tomatillos, onion, and one garlic clove.
   • Once boiled, place the tomatillos, onion, and garlic along with three fresh jalapeños into a blender.
   • Add salt to taste and blend until smooth. Set aside.
2. Season the Meat:
   • Cut the pork loin or pork butt into large chunks.
   • In a bowl, season the meat with salt, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, fresh orange juice, and black pepper.
   • Mix well and let marinate for at least 1 hour.
3. Cook the Carnitas:
   • In a large pan, heat the pork lard over high heat.
   • Drain excess marinade from the meat before adding it to the hot oil.
   • Add bay leaves, two garlic cloves, and two cloves to the pan.
   • Fry the meat for 10 minutes, then add the Coca-Cola.
   • Continue frying until the Coca-Cola evaporates and the oil clears up again.
4. Serve:
   • Serve the carnitas with shredded cabbage, limes, the prepared tomatillo salsa, and warm tortillas.

Prep Time: 1 hour (includes marinating)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Equipment: Blender, pot, large pan
Servings: 6

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure the oil is hot before adding the meat to achieve the perfect crispy texture.
• Adjust the spice level of the salsa by varying the number of jalapeños.

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Carnitas (Mexican Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork)