Step 1: Start by cutting the pork shoulder into large chunks, removing any excess fat.

Step 2: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chunks and sear them until browned on all sides.

Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium and add finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onions are translucent.

Step 4: Pour in enough chicken or vegetable broth to cover the pork. Add a bay leaf, dried oregano, ground cumin, and a pinch of black pepper.

Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds.

Step 6: Once the pork is cooked and tender, remove it from the pot and transfer it to a cutting board. Shred the meat using two forks.

Step 7: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the shredded pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Step 8: Drizzle the shredded pork with some of the cooking liquid from the pot to keep it moist. Spread it out evenly on the baking sheet.

Step 9: Bake the shredded pork in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges turn crispy and golden brown.

Step 10: While the carnitas are baking, prepare any desired toppings or accompaniments like salsa, guacamole, chopped onions, cilantro, or lime wedges.

Step 11: Once the carnitas are crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve the carnitas on warm tortillas, topped with your desired toppings and accompaniments.

Step 12: Enjoy your homemade carnitas as tacos, burritos, or on their own with a side of Mexican rice and beans.

Note: Carnitas can also be cooked in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Substitutions for Carnitas in Mexican cuisine:

1. Pork shoulder/butt: Substitute with beef chuck roast or chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as beef may require longer cooking and chicken less time.

2. Orange juice: Replace with pineapple juice or apple cider. The acidity and sweetness will provide a similar flavor profile.

3. Garlic cloves: Use garlic powder or granulated garlic. Adjust the quantity to taste, as powdered forms are more concentrated.

4. Bay leaves: Omit if unavailable or replace with a pinch of dried thyme or oregano for added flavor.

5. Cumin: Substitute with ground coriander or chili powder. Both will provide a different but complementary flavor.

6. Mexican oregano: Replace with regular dried oregano or dried thyme. Adjust the quantity to taste.

7. Salt: Use any other type of salt available, such as kosher or sea salt. Adjust the quantity to taste.

8. Water: If desired, substitute with chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor.

9. Vegetable oil: Any neutral-flavored oil like canola or sunflower oil can be used as a substitute.

10. Lime juice: Lemon juice can be used as a replacement, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Note: Adjust cooking times and seasoning quantities to taste when substituting ingredients.

- Salsa verde
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Cilantro-lime rice
- Refried beans
- Corn tortillas
- Queso fresco
- Pickled red onions
- Lime wedges
- Mexican street corn
- Chopped fresh onions and cilantro
- Radishes
- Mexican hot sauce
- Crispy tortilla chips
- Tacos al pastor
- Horchata (Mexican rice milk drink)
- Mexican beer (such as Corona or Modelo)
- Margaritas (traditional or flavored)

1. Improve presentation:
- Serve carnitas on a bed of colorful pickled vegetables for added visual appeal.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch.
- Use a decorative serving platter or individual ramekins to showcase the dish.

2. Improve texture/flavor profile:
- Marinate the pork in a mixture of citrus juices, spices, and a splash of tequila for a tangy and complex flavor.
- After shredding the pork, crisp it up in a pan for a crunchy texture.
- Add a touch of smokiness by incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce during cooking.

3. Elevate with luxurious/premium ingredients:
- Use high-quality, pasture-raised pork for a richer and more succulent taste.
- Replace regular cooking oil with rendered duck fat or lard for a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Top the carnitas with a dollop of truffle-infused aioli or sprinkle with shaved black truffles for an indulgent twist.

- Use lean cuts of pork or substitute with skinless chicken breast for a lower-fat option.
- Trim excess fat from the meat before cooking to reduce overall fat content.
- Use cooking methods like baking, grilling, or slow cooking instead of frying to minimize added fats.
- Replace traditional lard with a healthier cooking oil like olive oil or avocado oil.
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes, to boost fiber and nutrient content.
- Serve carnitas with whole wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of regular flour tortillas for a lower-carb option.
- Opt for smaller portion sizes to moderate calorie intake.
- For individuals with gluten sensitivity, ensure that all ingredients used, including seasonings and sauces, are gluten-free.
- Adjust the spice level to accommodate those with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.
- Provide a variety of toppings, including fresh salsa, guacamole, and low-fat Greek yogurt, to offer healthier alternatives to sour cream and cheese.

- Use lean cuts of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, instead of fatty cuts like pork shoulder.
- Trim off any visible fat from the pork before cooking.
- Instead of deep-frying the pork, try braising or slow-cooking it with a small amount of oil or broth.
- Use whole wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of regular flour tortillas for serving.
- Include plenty of fresh vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, to add nutrients and fiber.
- Opt for homemade salsa or pico de gallo using fresh ingredients, rather than store-bought versions that often contain added sugars and preservatives.
- Limit the amount of added salt by using herbs and spices to season the meat.
- Serve with a side of black beans or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
- Consider using avocado slices or guacamole as a healthier alternative to sour cream or cheese as toppings.
- Balance your meal by including a variety of colorful vegetables and a side of fresh fruit for dessert.

1. Use a pressure cooker: Cook the pork in a pressure cooker instead of slow-cooking it. This will significantly reduce the cooking time while still achieving tender and flavorful carnitas.

2. Opt for pork shoulder: Choose pork shoulder instead of expensive cuts like pork butt. It offers a similar taste and texture at a lower cost, making it an economical choice.

3. Skip the marinating step: While marinating the pork overnight enhances the flavor, you can save time by skipping this step. Instead, season the pork generously with spices and herbs before cooking.

4. Increase cooking temperature: Increase the cooking temperature slightly to speed up the cooking process. However, ensure you monitor the pork closely to prevent it from drying out.

5. Use pre-made spice blends: Instead of individually measuring and mixing spices, consider using pre-made spice blends specifically designed for carnitas. This saves time and ensures a consistent flavor profile.

6. Shred the meat using a stand mixer: After cooking, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to quickly shred the pork. This method is faster and more efficient than shredding by hand.

7. Utilize leftovers creatively: Repurpose leftover carnitas into other dishes like tacos, quesadillas, or burritos. This not only saves time on future meal preparation but also reduces food waste.

8. Buy in bulk and freeze: Purchase pork shoulder in larger quantities when it's on sale and freeze the extra portions. This allows you to save money and have readily available meat for future carnitas preparations.

9. Opt for homemade tortillas: Make your own tortillas instead of buying pre-packaged ones. It's cost-effective, and the process can be quick and straightforward with practice.

10. Serve with simple toppings: Instead of elaborate toppings, stick to basic garnishes like chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges. This reduces prep time and cost while still providing a fresh and authentic taste.

 Related

• Arroz con Pollo
• Birria
• Breakfast Burritos
• Burritos
• Carne Asada
• Chalupas
• Chiles Rellenos
• Chili Rellenos Casserole
• Chorizo and Eggs
• Cochinita Pibil
• Enchiladas
• Fajitas
• Menudo
• Mexican Lasagna
• Mexican Rice
• Nacho Casserole
• Nopales Tacos
• Picadillo
• Quesadillas