How To Cook Pork Carnitas On The Stove

Do you crave the delicious taste of tender and juicy pork carnitas? Well, you don’t need to wait for your next restaurant visit to satisfy your cravings. With this simple recipe, you can easily cook mouthwatering pork carnitas right in your own kitchen! And the best part? You don’t need any special equipment – just your trusty stove!

Ingredients:

2 pounds of boneless pork butt or shoulder, cut into chunks
1 onion, diced
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 orange, juiced
1 lime, juiced
1 tablespoon of ground cumin
1 tablespoon of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of chili powder
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Instructions:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the heated oil and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
Place the pork chunks in the pot, making sure they are evenly distributed.
Add the ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the pork in the flavorful spices.
Pour in the freshly squeezed orange and lime juice. These citrus juices will add a tangy and bright flavor to the carnitas.
Cover the pot with a lid and let the pork simmer on medium heat for about 2 hours or until it becomes tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Once the pork is cooked, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Allow the excess liquid to evaporate and the pork to caramelize and brown.
Using two forks, shred the pork into smaller pieces. This step will give your carnitas that desirable texture.
Continue cooking the shredded pork for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop a crispy exterior.
Once the pork carnitas are crispy and golden, remove them from the stove and let them cool slightly.

Now that your homemade pork carnitas are ready, you can serve them in tacos, burritos, or even enjoy them on their own. Top them with your favorite garnishes such as fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for that extra burst of flavor.

Cooking pork carnitas on the stove is not only convenient but also allows you to control the cooking process and customize the flavors to your liking. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress and leave everyone wanting more!

Want to share your own tips or discuss this recipe further? Join the conversation in the Cooking Techniques forum and let us know your thoughts on how to cook pork carnitas on the stove!

FAQ:

Can I use any cut of pork for carnitas?

While you can use various cuts of pork, the best choice for carnitas is usually a pork shoulder or pork butt. The higher fat content in these cuts will result in a more flavorful and tender dish. However, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin if you prefer a leaner option.

Do I need to marinate the pork for carnitas?

Marinating the pork is not necessary for carnitas, but it can add some extra flavor if you choose to do so. Traditional carnitas recipes typically rely on the pork being cooked in its own rendered fat, along with seasonings added during the cooking process. However, marinating with citrus juices, spices, and herbs can infuse more flavors to the meat before cooking.

How long does it take to cook pork carnitas on the stove?

Cooking time for pork carnitas can vary depending on the size and thickness of the meat, as well as the cooking temperature. On average, it usually takes around 2 to 3 hours to cook pork carnitas on the stove. However, it’s important to simmer the meat on low heat to ensure it becomes tender and develops that delicious crispiness.

Can I make carnitas ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making carnitas ahead of time can often enhance the flavors. Once the pork is cooked and shredded, you can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This will also allow you to separate the fat from the meat easily. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the carnitas in a skillet or in the oven until heated through and the edges are crispy.

Is it possible to achieve crispy carnitas on the stovetop?

Yes, you can achieve crispy carnitas on the stovetop by following a few additional steps. After simmering the pork until tender, transfer the meat to a separate pan and use higher heat to crisp the edges. This will give you that desired crispy texture while maintaining the juicy tenderness of the pork.

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How To Cook Pork Carnitas On The Stove