If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine and always on the lookout for simple yet delicious recipes, Instant Pot Carnitas might be perfect for you. This dish transforms pork shoulder or pork butt into juicy, flavorful meat that's perfect for tacos, burritos, or even salads. With the magic of a pressure cooker, you can achieve that slow-cooked taste in a fraction of the time.
Using your Instant Pot, you can prepare a keto-friendly version of these carnitas with minimal effort. You'll need chunks of pork shoulder, a mix of spices like cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika, and a few other ingredients to create this dish. The Instant Pot does most of the work, giving you tender, perfectly seasoned carnitas in about an hour. Just brown the pork, add the seasonings and broth, and let the pressure cooker work its magic.
Once cooked, you can shred the pork and even give it a quick sear for crispy edges if you like. Adding the juice of a lime at the end brightens up the flavors, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro makes for a beautiful finish. Whether you enjoy these carnitas in tacos or a bowl, they are sure to become a favorite for any meal.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Instant Pot Carnitas
Making Instant Pot Carnitas is easy with the right ingredients. You need a good cut of pork, many spices, and extra flavors like lime juice.
Choosing the Right Cut of Pork
The key is using pork shoulder because it's flavorful and tender. It often goes by the name "pork butt" in stores. This cut has the right fat content that keeps the meat juicy during cooking. You'll want about two pounds of pork, cut into chunks for even cooking. Buying boneless pork shoulder is a good choice to save time on prep.
Essential Spices and Seasonings
Spices are the heart of your carnitas. Ground cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika give depth and warmth. A teaspoon of each keeps the balance perfect. Add half a teaspoon of chili powder for a bit of heat. Don’t forget salt and pepper for seasoning. Fine-tuning these makes all the difference in flavor.
Additional Flavor Enhancers
Enhance flavor with simple extras like lime juice and minced garlic. Freshly squeezed lime from one fruit brightens the dish. Four garlic cloves add richness. Chicken broth is another important liquid; it helps with cooking and adds a savory touch. Fresh cilantro can be sprinkled on top for a fresh, herbal finish. These simple ingredients make your carnitas truly special.
Preparing the Pork for Cooking
To prepare the pork for Instant Pot Carnitas, you will cut the meat, marinate it, and layer the ingredients correctly to ensure a flavorful and tender dish. Follow these steps to achieve the best results.
Trimming and Cutting
Start with a boneless pork shoulder. Trim off excess fat, but leave some to keep the meat juicy. Cut the pork into 1-2 inch cubes. This size helps it cook evenly and absorb flavors better. Smaller chunks also make it easier for the Instant Pot to work effectively, ensuring that each piece is tender.
If the pork is too large, it might not cook properly under pressure. Be careful and use a sharp knife to avoid rough cuts.
Marinating the Meat
Season your pork cubes by mixing them with spices like cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Add salt, pepper, and minced garlic. For a citrus kick, include the juice of a lime. Let the pork marinate in the mixture for at least 15-20 minutes. Marinating helps the flavors soak deep into the meat, making your carnitas delicious.
To save time, you can marinate the meat the night before. Keep it in the fridge in a sealed container or a zip-lock bag to maximize flavor absorption.
Layering Ingredients in the Instant Pot
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Brown the pork cubes on all sides. This step locks in the juices and adds a rich flavor. Next, pour in the chicken broth, which adds moisture and enhances the dish's taste.
Add a chopped onion over the pork, dispersing it to ensure even cooking. Pressure cooking melds these flavors. Finally, secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 30 minutes. Proper layering ensures even heat distribution and full flavor integration.
Cooking Process and Timing
Making carnitas in the Instant Pot is quick and easy. Understanding the right settings and release methods helps achieve tender and flavorful pork.
Setting the Instant Pot
Start by cutting the pork shoulder into chunks. Turn the Instant Pot to "sauté" mode. Brown the pork on all sides to lock in flavor. Once browned, add ingredients including chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Combine well.
Switch the Instant Pot to high pressure and set the timer for 30 minutes. This timing ensures that the spices blend into the meat perfectly. Proper seasoning is crucial for rich taste.
Natural Release vs. Quick Release
After cooking, understanding how to release the pressure is key. Use a natural release for the first 10 minutes. This method lets the pressure decrease gradually, which can make the pork more tender.
After that, do a quick release to let out any remaining pressure quickly. Open the lid carefully, shred the pork with forks, and add lime juice for extra flavor. Using both release methods gives you juicy and succulent carnitas every time.
Achieving Crispy Carnitas
To make your Instant Pot carnitas irresistibly crispy, there are reliable techniques you can use. You can use the broiler to achieve crispy edges or utilize the Instant Pot’s sauté feature for a satisfying crunch.
Broiling Method
The broiling method is simple and effective. After cooking and shredding the pork in the Instant Pot, preheat your oven broiler. Spread the shredded pork evenly on a baking sheet. Broil the pork for about 5 minutes or until the edges are crispy and brown, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
This method keeps the pork tender but adds a delicious crunch to every bite. Don’t forget to stir the pork halfway through the broiling process for even crispiness.
Using the Instant Pot Sauté Feature
If you prefer to stick with one appliance, the Instant Pot sauté feature works great, too. After shredding the meat, switch the Instant Pot to sauté mode, adding a little oil if needed.
Once hot, add the shredded pork, spreading it out evenly so more of the meat can brown and crisp up. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until you see the desired crispy edges. This method provides convenience without needing extra cookware.
RECIPE: Instant Pot Carnitas
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the pork chunks and brown them on all sides.
- Add chicken broth, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Close the lid. Set to high pressure for 30 minutes.
- After cooking, let it sit for a natural release for 10 minutes. Perform a quick release after.
- Open the lid. Take out the pork and shred it with forks.
- Return the shredded pork to the pot. Stir in lime juice.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
This simple recipe makes delicious carnitas using ingredients you likely have at home. Adjust spices as you prefer to fit your taste.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
After preparing your Instant Pot Carnitas, you'll want to think about how to serve them creatively and how best to store any leftovers. Here are some ideas for enjoying your carnitas in different meals and tips for keeping them fresh.
Making Carnitas Tacos and Burritos
Your carnitas can be the star ingredient in a variety of dishes. For tacos, use corn tortillas and top the pulled pork with cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. You might also add queso fresco or salsa for extra flavor.
To make burritos, wrap the carnitas in large flour tortillas with rice, beans, cheese, and your choice of vegetables. If you crave creamy elements, a spoonful of sour cream or guacamole can enhance the taste. Consider turning these into a burrito bowl by serving them over rice without the tortilla.
Storing Leftovers and Reheating
Keep any leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, divide the meat into portions and freeze. Use airtight freezer bags to avoid freezer burn.
To reheat, use a skillet on the stove with a bit of oil, which helps bring back the crispiness. Heat over medium until the meat is warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but cover the dish to keep moisture in. Reheat thoroughly to ensure it's safe to eat.
Garnishes and Side Dishes
When serving your Instant Pot Carnitas, adding the right garnishes and side dishes can enhance the flavors.
A great way to start is with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime wedges. This adds a fresh and tangy taste that brightens up the dish.
Serve your carnitas with guacamole and sour cream for a creamy touch. The richness of these garnishes pairs well with the savory pork.
For some heat, add jalapeño slices or a spoonful of spicy salsa. If you prefer a sweeter kick, pineapple salsa is a tasty option.
On the side, offer Pico de Gallo or chopped onions for added texture and freshness. Pickled onions also add a nice zing, complementing the flavors of the carnitas.
Accompany your meal with Mexican rice or Instant Pot Mexican Rice. Both are flavorful and filling side dishes.
For a hearty option, serve black beans, refried beans, or Instant Pot Refried Beans. These provide protein and are very satisfying.
Adding corn to your plate can also introduce a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
Mix and match these garnishes and sides to make your carnitas meal complete and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Instant Pot Carnitas are a delicious and simple way to enjoy Mexican cuisine at home. Below, you'll find answers to some common questions about making these savory, tender, and juicy pork carnitas.
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork shoulder or pork butt, as these cuts are ideal due to their fat content, which keeps the meat juicy. Avoid using lean cuts like pork tenderloin, as they can become dry.
Can I make this recipe with a different type of meat?
You can experiment with other meats, such as beef or chicken thighs. However, the cooking times may need to be adjusted, and you might lose some of the traditional flavor and texture associated with carnitas.
Can I use water instead of chicken broth?
You can use water instead of chicken broth, but it will lack some depth of flavor. If you choose to use water, consider adding more spices for an extra flavor boost.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by cooking the pork on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Ensure the pork is tender enough to shred before removing it from the cooker.
How can I make the carnitas crispier?
To make the carnitas crispier, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes. Toss the meat occasionally to ensure even crispiness.
What should I do if the pork is not tender enough?
If the pork is not tender enough, you can return it to the Instant Pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes under high pressure. Ensure a natural release to keep the meat tender.
Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh garlic?
Dried garlic is a suitable alternative if fresh garlic is unavailable. Use about half the amount, as dried garlic is more concentrated in flavor.
What are some serving suggestions for carnitas?
Carnitas can be enjoyed in tacos, burritos, or on rice bowls. Add toppings like onions, cilantro, salsa, avocado, or cheese to complement their rich flavor. You can also serve them with tortillas and a squeeze of lime.
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