Ingredients for Authentic Carnitas
- 3-4 lb pork shoulder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Tomato Paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 large white onion, quartered
- Chicken Stock
- Enough water to just cover
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How to Make Authentic Carnitas
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the 3-4 lb pork shoulder, 1 large onion (quartered), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Add enough water to just cover the pork shoulder.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 3 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender.
- Remove the pork from the pot and let it cool slightly. Remove the bone and shred the pork, leaving some larger chunks with fat attached for texture.
- Spread the shredded pork in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve the carnitas as desired: in tacos, with green chili, in enchiladas, on salads, or made into flautas (rolled in tortillas and fried).
- Enjoy your delicious homemade Carnitas!
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
88 g
Sugar
24g
Fat
110g
Carbs
4g
