Best Easy Tacos de Carnitas Recipe

Crispy, slow-braised pork piled onto corn tortillas with fresh salsa, onion, and cilantro. These protein-packed tacos deliver the authentic taste of Michoacán for an unforgettable family meal.

Cook 180 min Difficulty NORMAL 370 kcal
#high protein #diabetic friendly #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • pork shoulder (boneless) 2.5 lbs
  • corn tortillas 12 pieces
  • white onion 1 pieces
  • fresh cilantro 1 cup
  • fresh salsa 1 cup
  • orange 1 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • coarse salt 2 tsp
  • ground black pepper 1 tsp
  • dried oregano 1 tsp
  • ground cumin 1 tsp
  • bay leaf 2 pieces
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 28 g 30%
Protein 22 g 24%
Fat 17 g 46%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut into large 2-inch chunks for even cooking.

  2. 2

    Season pork pieces thoroughly with salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin, then place in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.

  3. 3

    Add bay leaves and squeeze the juice from one orange over the pork; nestle the orange halves in the pot for extra flavor.

  4. 4

    Cover with a tight-fitting lid and cook over low heat for 2 to 2.5 hours, turning pork halfway, until meat is very tender.

  5. 5

    Remove lid, increase heat to medium-high, and cook uncovered for another 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pork becomes golden and lightly crisp at the edges as liquid evaporates.

  6. 6

    Warm corn tortillas on a dry skillet until pliable, then assemble tacos by layering carnitas, diced white onion, fresh cilantro, and salsa.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Tacos de Carnitas recipe?
The star ingredient is the boneless pork shoulder, which is slow-braised with orange, seasonings, and finished until crispy. Its rich, tender flavor is essential for authentic carnitas.
Q. What’s the most important cooking technique for perfectly crispy carnitas?
After the pork is tender from slow-braising, finishing the meat uncovered over higher heat is essential. Stirring lets the edges caramelize and get golden crisp, replicating classic street-style texture.
Q. How do I avoid dry or soggy carnitas?
Keep the lid on during braising so the pork stays juicy. Remove the lid only during the final stage, letting evaporation and browning concentrate flavor without overdrying the meat.
Q. How many calories and protein are there per serving?
Each serving (180g) of these tacos has about 370 kcal and 22g protein, making them a protein-rich choice for a filling meal.
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