Chipotle Orange Carnitas
Experience a vibrant twist on traditional carnitas with our Chipotle Orange Carnitas recipe, blending smoky chipotle with tangy citrus for a unique Mexican feast. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or a standalone dish, this easy recipe ensures tender, flavor-packed pork that mesmerizes your taste buds. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings, these carnitas deliver a punch of flavor while being gluten-free and dairy-free.
Prep time: 15 minutesCook time: 3 hoursServes: 6
Ingredients
3 lbs pork shoulder
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large orange, juiced
1 large lime, juiced
2 tsp chipotle powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large onion, quartered
1 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper.
2. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic and quartered onion, sautéing until fragrant.
4. Add chipotle powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dried oregano, stirring to coat the pork.
5. Pour in the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
6. Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise the pork for 3 hours, or until fork-tender.
7. Remove the pork from the oven and shred it with two forks, mixing it with the braising liquid for additional flavor.
Storage
Store carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat carnitas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
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This recipe is for informational purposes only. Always follow proper food safety practices, cook foods to safe internal temperatures, and store leftovers appropriately. Results may vary.