Instant Pot Carnitas
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
45 mins
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Total Time
1 hr 5 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
417 kcal
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Course
Main Course
Instant Pot Carnitas
Description
Instant Pot Carnitas begins by coating pork shoulder with a blend of cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. The pork is placed in the Instant Pot along with chopped onions, garlic cloves, fresh orange juice, and lime juice, which contribute acidity and balance the spices for depth of flavor.
The pot is set to high pressure for 45 minutes, after which the pork is shredded manually. Returning the shredded meat to the pot on sauté mode allows the juices to reduce and better coat the meat. For added texture, the shredded pork can be spread on a sheet pan, moistened and broiled briefly to develop crispy edges, enhancing traditional carnitas characteristics.
This dish yields tender, juicy pork infused with smoky and citrusy notes, well-suited for serving in tacos or rice bowls, bringing a homemade touch to classic Mexican seasoning.
It may take up to 10 minutes for the Instant Pot to reach pressure before cooking begins, so plan accordingly.
Ingredients
- ½-1 tablespoon cumin optional
- 3 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon basil dried
- 2 teaspoons oregano dried
- 1 teaspoon salt or a pinch
- 1 teaspoon black pepper or a pinch
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder or butt
- 1 large onion
- 5 cloves garlic
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 lime juice
Instructions
Instant Pot Instructions
- Mix together all your spices and rub onto the pork.
- Place the pork into the Instant pot then onions, garlic, 1 cup of orange juice, and the juice of one lime.
- Press the “manual” button and set Instant Pot for high pressure for 45 minutes.
- Quick release, remove the pork and shred. Place the meat back into the IP and put it on sauté mode and let the juices thicken and coat the meat more.
- Optional: Using a slotted spoon, place the shredded pork onto a sheet pan and put some of the liquids on before placing it under the broiler for 5 minutes to crisp it up.
Notes
- Allow up to 10 minutes for the Instant Pot to come to high pressure before the 45-minute cook time starts.
- After cooking and shredding, broiling the shredded pork with some of the cooking liquids adds crispy texture typical of carnitas.
- This recipe can be adapted for slow cooker preparation if preferred.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 417 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 417kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 7g | 2% |
| Protein | 69g | 138% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Trans Fat | 0.05g | 3% |
| Cholesterol | 181mg | 60% |
| Sodium | 559mg | 23% |
| Potassium | 1300mg | 28% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 696IU | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 23mg | 26% |
| Calcium | 55mg | 6% |
| Iron | 4mg | 22% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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