This Instant Pot Carnitas recipe brings the authentic Mexican flavors to your kitchen using minimal ingredients and a bit of spice. The melange of succulent pork shoulder and subtle aromatics, all pressure-cooked to perfection, results in an irresistibly tender and flavorful dish. This recipe adds a whole new dimension to your tacos and nachos night, making it a sure-fire crowd pleaser.
Photos of Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are standard pantry items, there are a few that may require a trip to the supermarket. Frank's Red Hot Original is a specific brand of hot sauce that brings a distinct flavor to the carnitas, but any hot sauce can substitute if necessary. Chipotle peppers, commonly found in the international foods aisle, add a smoky heat to the dish. Finally, the pork shoulder, a flavorful cut of meat that becomes incredibly tender when pressure cooked, can be found in the meat section of most markets.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Carnitas
Frank’s red hot original: This particular hot sauce is known for its tangy and spicy flavor, which adds a kick to the carnitas.
Oranges: Their juice is used to tenderize the pork shoulder, giving the dish a hint of sweetness and acidity.
Garlic: Adds an aromatic base to the dish.
Chipotle peppers: These smoked jalapenos add a touch of heat and a deep, smoky flavor to the dish.
Brown sugar: Balances the heat and acidity with a touch of sweetness.
Apple cider vinegar: It's acidity helps to tenderize the pork and balance the flavors.
Pork shoulder: A flavorful cut that becomes tender and succulent when cooked properly.
Corn tortilla, avocado, radish, cilantro, tortilla chip, cheddar cheese, tomato, red onion, scallion: All these ingredients are used for serving the carnitas, either as tacos or nachos.
One reader, Brandi Echevarria says:
This instant pot carnitas recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the meat comes out so tender and juicy. It's super easy to make and versatile for different dishes. I've received so many compliments every time I've made it. Highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Making Instant Pot Carnitas
How to blend marinade: Combine frank’s original red hot, orange juice, garlic, chipotle peppers, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and cinnamon in a blender. Blend on high until smooth.
How to cook pork in Instant Pot: Place pork shoulder in Instant Pot and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it is evenly coated. Set the timer for 40 minutes on the manual setting. After the timer goes off, carefully release the pressure and transfer the pork to a bowl to shred.
How to shred pork: Use two forks to shred the cooked pork shoulder. Pour some of the cooking liquid over the carnitas and toss to coat.
How to build carnitas: Use the shredded pork to top nachos or tacos. For tacos, use corn tortillas and add sliced avocado, radish, and fresh cilantro. For nachos, use tortilla chips and top with cheddar cheese, diced tomato, red onion, and fresh scallions.
How To Make Instant Pot Carnitas
Succulent, juicy, and mouthwatering, are just some of the ways to describe this super easy instant pot carnitas. Serve on tacos or nachos.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspfrank’s red hot original
- 2oranges juiced
- 4garlic
- 3chipotle peppers,from a can
- 2tbspbrown sugar
- ¼cupapple cider vinegar
- 1tbspsalt
- 1tsppepper
- 1tbsppaprika
- 1tspdried oregano
- ¼tspcinnamon
- 3lbpork shoulder,boneless, cut into 3-inch cubes
For the Tacos:
- corn tortilla,for serving
- sliced avocado,for garnish
- radish,for garnish
- fresh cilantro,for garnish
For the Nachos:
- tortilla chip
- cheddar cheese,shredded
- diced tomato
- red onion,chopped
- fresh scallion,sliced
Instructions
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In a blender, add Frank’s Original Red Hot, orange juice, garlic, chipotle peppers, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and cinnamon. Blend on high until smooth.
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Place pork shoulder in Instant Pot. Pour marinade over pork and turn with tongs to coat.
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Put the cover on the Instant Pot. Be sure the pressure valve is set to Sealing. Use the manual setting to set the timer for 40 minutes.
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When the timer goes off, turn the pressure valve to Venting to release pressure quickly.
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Transfer pork from the pot to a bowl. Use two forks to shred the pork. Pour some of the cooking liquid over the carnitas and toss to coat.
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Build carnitas on top of nachos or tacos.
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Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 489.39kcal
- Fat: 33.98g
- Saturated Fat: 11.87g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 15.20g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.70g
- Carbohydrates: 12.64g
- Fiber: 1.95g
- Sugar: 6.44g
- Protein: 32.07g
- Cholesterol: 126.39mg
- Sodium: 621.59mg
- Calcium: 74.10mg
- Potassium: 739.58mg
- Iron: 2.64mg
- Vitamin A: 202.06µg
- Vitamin C: 41.71mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Instant Pot Carnitas
When shredding the pork, it's best to let it cool slightly before handling. This not only makes it easier to handle, but also allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making your carnitas even more flavorful. Additionally, using two forks to shred the meat will give you more control over the size and texture of your carnitas. For a crispier finish, you can also broil the shredded pork in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-made marinade: Save time by using store-bought marinade instead of making it from scratch.
Quick release: Utilize the quick release function on the Instant Pot to speed up the cooking process.
Multi-task: While the carnitas are cooking, prepare the taco or nacho toppings to save time.
Invest in pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to eliminate the need for grating.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of carnitas and freeze the leftovers for future quick and easy meals.
Prep station: Set up a designated prep area with all necessary ingredients and tools to work efficiently.
Instant Pot liners: Use disposable Instant Pot liners for easy cleanup and less time spent washing dishes.
Utilize kitchen gadgets: Use tools like a food processor or blender to quickly blend the marinade ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe
frank’s red hot original - Substitute with your favorite hot sauce: If you prefer a different hot sauce or have a favorite one on hand, you can use that instead of Frank's Red Hot Original.
oranges - Substitute with tangerines: Tangerines can be used as a substitute for oranges in this recipe, providing a similar citrusy flavor with a hint of sweetness.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If you don't have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic.
chipotle peppers - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a similar smoky flavor to the dish as chipotle peppers, but in a powdered form.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of brown sugar, adding a touch of sweetness to the dish.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for apple cider vinegar, providing a slightly milder acidity.
pork shoulder - Substitute with beef chuck roast: Beef chuck roast can be used as an alternative to pork shoulder, providing a rich and flavorful meat base for the carnitas.
corn tortilla - Substitute with flour tortilla: If you prefer or have flour tortillas on hand, they can be used as a substitute for corn tortillas in this recipe.
avocado - Substitute with guacamole: If you don't have fresh avocado, you can use prepared guacamole as a substitute for sliced avocado.
radish - Substitute with jicama: Jicama can be used as a substitute for radish, providing a similar crunchy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh herb flavor without the distinctive cilantro taste.
tortilla chip - Substitute with plantain chips: If you prefer or have plantain chips on hand, they can be used as a substitute for tortilla chips in the nachos.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar cheese, providing a mild and creamy cheese flavor for the nachos.
diced tomato - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh diced tomatoes, providing a convenient alternative with a similar texture and flavor.
red onion - Substitute with sweet onion: Sweet onion can be used as a substitute for red onion, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor.
scallion - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for scallions, providing a mild onion flavor and a similar appearance for garnishing.
Best Ways to Present Instant Pot Carnitas
- Elevate the plating: Arrange the carnitas in a visually appealing manner, ensuring each element is showcased beautifully.
- Incorporate vibrant colors: Integrate colorful elements such as sliced avocado, radish, and fresh cilantro to add visual interest and freshness to the dish.
- Create a balanced composition: Arrange the tacos or nachos in a way that balances the different textures and flavors, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience.
- Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each ingredient, ensuring that the presentation reflects attention to detail and culinary expertise.
- Highlight the pork: Showcase the succulent shredded pork as the star of the dish, ensuring it takes center stage in the presentation.
- Emphasize freshness: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients and garnishes to enhance the visual appeal and overall presentation of the dish.
- Consider the vessel: Choose the appropriate serving vessel to complement the dish, whether it's a rustic platter for nachos or a stylish plate for tacos.
- Add a touch of elegance: Incorporate subtle garnishes or edible flowers to add a touch of elegance to the presentation without overwhelming the dish.
- Create visual contrast: Play with contrasting colors and textures to create a visually striking presentation that captivates the judges' attention.
- Showcase creativity: Infuse the presentation with creative elements that reflect your culinary artistry and passion for the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Carnitas in an Instant Pot
- Instant Pot: A multi-functional electric pressure cooker that can be used for pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and more.
- Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, purée, or emulsify food and other substances.
- Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot near the handle, used for gripping and lifting.
- Forks: Utensils with two or more prongs, used for lifting and eating food.
- Bowl: A round, deep dish or basin used for food preparation and serving.
- Food processor: An electric kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and shredding food.
- Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing ingredients.
- Knife: A tool with a sharp blade used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A durable board on which food is cut and prepared.
- Serving platter: A large plate or tray used for serving food.
Storing and Freezing Instant Pot Carnitas
Once the carnitas have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to include some of the cooking liquid to keep the meat moist and flavorful. The carnitas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If you want to freeze the carnitas for later use, portion them into smaller airtight containers or resealable plastic bags, along with some of the cooking liquid. Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen carnitas can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat the carnitas, place them in a skillet or pan over medium heat, along with some of the reserved cooking liquid. Stir occasionally until the meat is heated through and the liquid has evaporated, leaving the carnitas crispy and delicious.
Alternatively, you can reheat the carnitas in the microwave. Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the meat.
If you have any leftover carnitas, you can use them in a variety of dishes, such as burritos, quesadillas, salads, or even as a topping for nachos. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and enjoy your delicious homemade carnitas!
How To Reheat Leftover Carnitas
The best way to reheat leftover instant pot carnitas is to use a skillet or frying pan on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or lard in the pan over medium-high heat, then add the desired amount of carnitas. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is heated through and the edges start to crisp up, about 5-7 minutes. This method will help restore the texture and flavor of the carnitas.
Another option is to reheat the carnitas in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the carnitas on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil or lard. Cover the sheet with foil and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the meat is heated through. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the edges, if desired.
For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat the carnitas in the microwave. Place the desired amount of meat in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Keep in mind that this method may result in a softer texture compared to the stovetop or oven methods.
If you have leftover carnitas with the cooking liquid, you can reheat them together in a pot on the stovetop. Simply place the carnitas and liquid in a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the meat is heated through and the liquid has reduced to your desired consistency. This method will help keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to reheat the carnitas until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature before serving.
Interesting Fact About Carnitas
Carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish that originated in the state of Michoacán. It is typically made by braising pork in lard until tender, then shredding and crisping the meat. This cooking method gives the carnitas a rich, succulent flavor and a crispy texture that is perfect for tacos and nachos.
Is Making Carnitas in an Instant Pot Cost-Effective?
This instant pot carnitas recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, pork shoulder, is relatively inexpensive and can feed a family of four. The addition of oranges and garlic adds a burst of flavor without breaking the bank. The versatility of this dish also makes it a great value, as the carnitas can be used in various ways, such as in tacos, nachos, or even as a topping for salads. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-20 USD.
Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This instant pot carnitas recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side:
- Pork shoulder is a good source of protein and essential nutrients like thiamin, niacin, and vitamin B6
- The recipe includes healthy ingredients like garlic, oranges, and spices that provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties
- Serving options include fresh vegetables like avocado, radish, cilantro, tomato, and onion, which add fiber, vitamins, and minerals
However, there are also some less healthy elements:
- Pork shoulder is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess
- The recipe includes added sugars from brown sugar and orange juice, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems when consumed in excess
- Depending on portion sizes and toppings, the tacos and nachos can be high in calories, fat, and sodium
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use a leaner cut of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, to reduce the amount of saturated fat
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Use whole grain tortillas or chips to increase the fiber content
- Limit the amount of cheese and other high-calorie toppings, and focus on adding more fresh vegetables
- Control portion sizes to avoid overeating and consuming too many calories
- Serve the carnitas with a side salad or other vegetable-based dish to balance out the meal and add more nutrients
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of instant pot carnitas while also supporting your overall health and well-being.
Editor's Opinion on This Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe
The Instant Pot Carnitas recipe is a tantalizing fusion of flavors that promises to delight the taste buds. The blend of Frank's Red Hot, orange juice, and aromatic spices creates a rich and complex marinade that infuses the pork shoulder with irresistible depth. The cooking process in the Instant Pot ensures tender, succulent meat that is effortlessly shredded and coated in the luscious cooking liquid. Whether served atop crispy nachos or nestled in warm corn tortillas, this dish offers a symphony of textures and tastes that will undoubtedly leave diners craving more.
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Why trust this Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe:
This recipe for Instant Pot Carnitas is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, crafted with the finest pork shoulder and a blend of authentic Mexican spices. The marinade, featuring orange juice, chipotle peppers, and garlic, infuses the meat with rich, smoky flavors. The use of Frank's Red Hot Original adds a delightful kick, while the slow cooking process in the Instant Pot ensures tender, succulent results. With the option to serve as tacos or nachos, this versatile dish promises a memorable dining experience. Trust in this recipe for a taste of genuine Mexican cuisine at home.
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