Authentic Mexican carnitas with tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder finished with crispy edges, served in warm tortillas for the ultimate street food experience at home.
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 1.5kg pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
- 2 large oranges, juiced
- 4 limes limes, juiced
- 12 pieces small corn tortillas
- 3 tbsp lard (or vegetable oil)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F). Cut the 1.5kg pork shoulder into 8cm chunks and season generously with salt and pepper. The larger pieces will stay moist during the long cooking process.
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Heat the 3 tbsp lard (or vegetable oil) in a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chunks on all sides for 8-10 minutes total until deeply golden.
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Add the juice from the 2 large oranges and 4 limes limes to the pot, scraping up any browned bits. The citrus will tenderise the meat and add authentic Mexican flavour.
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Cover tightly and transfer to the oven. Cook for 2.5-3 hours until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds. Check occasionally and add water if needed to prevent sticking.
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Remove the lid and increase oven temperature to 220°C (425°F). Cook for another 15-20 minutes until the exposed meat develops crispy, caramelised edges.
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Shred the pork with two forks and serve immediately in warm 12 pieces small corn tortillas, allowing the crispy bits to add texture to each bite.
Tips
Pork Cut Selection: Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) has the perfect fat content for carnitas. The marbling keeps the meat moist during long cooking.
Citrus Balance: The combination of orange and lime juice provides both sweetness and acidity, which tenderises the meat and adds authentic Mexican flavor.
Crispy Finish: The final high-heat step creates the characteristic crispy edges (carnitas means "little meats") that make this dish special.
Lard vs Oil: Traditional carnitas use lard for authentic flavor, but vegetable oil works as a substitute for dietary preferences.
Make-Ahead Option: The pork can be cooked completely ahead and reheated in a hot skillet to restore the crispy edges before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with diced onions, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and your favorite salsa. Simple toppings let the perfectly seasoned pork shine.