Instant Pot Carnitas

Traditional carnitas are usually braised or simmered in lard. However, in this recipe we take advantage of the pressure cooker to add flavor without all the fat, plus is super easy and fast. Also, once the carnitas are ready you can use it in burritos, tacos, salads, tostadas or even grain bowls.  Add some side dishes like rice, beans or roasted vegetables and you get a complete meal. You can even portion it in small containers for a flavorful home made lunch.

Servings: 6 – 8

Ingredients

3 lb pork shoulder
3 tsp coriander
1 tsp onion powder
1 1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp freshly ground pepper
2 tsp salt
3 bay leaves
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
4 smashed garlic cloves
2/3 cup orange juice *

*orange juice taste is important. Some store bought orange juices have a bitter after taste that carries through the dish. I’ve tried the following brands with good results: Simply orange, western family and minute maid original.

Procedure

1. Place the pork, seasonings, and orange juice in the instant pot at high pressure for about 40 min. (make sure you follow you pressure cooker time recommendations for shredded pork)
2. Once the instant pot is done, release pressure and shred the carnitas.

The next step is to caramelize the carnitas and to give a more authentic look and flavor, except we won’t be simmering them in lard. The orange juice will do the browning job just fine.

3. Before serving: In a large skillet, pour about 1 Tbsp of oil and fry the carnitas. Be careful when putting the carnitas in oil. It will splatter. Alternatively, just place the carnitas with the remaining juices on a skillet  without any oil  and heat until the orange juice starts to caramelize.

4. Warm some corn tortillas, and make a taco. You can spice it up with my fresh tomatillo avocado salsa.