Learn to Make Delicious Pork Carnitas on the Stovetop
If you’re craving a mouthwatering and flavorful Mexican dish, look no further than the classic Pork Carnitas. This traditional dish is known for its tender, juicy pork with crispy edges, and it’s surprisingly easy to make on the stovetop. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of cooking pork carnitas quickly and effortlessly.
Why Cook Carnitas on the Stovetop?
While slow-cooking pork carnitas in the oven or a slow cooker is popular, sometimes you need a faster option. Cooking it on the stovetop can significantly reduce the cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving some authentic Mexican flavors without the wait.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking method, let’s gather our ingredients:
- 2 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
The Cooking Process
To cook your pork carnitas on the stovetop, follow these simple steps:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion to the hot oil and cook until it becomes translucent.
- Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Toss the pork shoulder chunks into the skillet and let them brown on all sides. This step adds a delightful crispy texture to your carnitas.
- Once the pork is browned, sprinkle in the cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the seasonings.
- Pour in the freshly squeezed orange juice and chicken broth. The citrusy flavor of the orange juice will complement the savory pork.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the pork simmer for about 1-2 hours, or until it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- After the simmering time, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium. Allow the liquid to evaporate, and continue cooking until the edges of the pork turn golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the skillet from the heat, and it’s time to serve your delicious pork carnitas!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking pork carnitas on the stovetop, it’s time to enjoy your culinary creation. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Warm up some corn tortillas and fill them with a generous amount of pork carnitas, along with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and chopped cilantro.
- Add your carnitas to a bed of rice or alongside some refried beans for a hearty plate.
- Turn them into delicious tacos by pairing them with pickled onions, fresh lime juice, and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco.
Get creative with your pork carnitas and customize them to your liking. The possibilities are endless!
Elevate Your Cooking Skills with Stovetop Carnitas
Cooking pork carnitas on the stovetop is a fantastic way to enjoy this delicious Mexican dish in a fraction of the time. Now that you have learned the secrets, go ahead and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Get cooking and savor the incredible flavors of homemade pork carnitas today!
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