Chipotle Pork Carnitas

Mexican pork carnitas are slow-cooked, spicy, shredded pork shoulder served with tortillas and salsa.

Chipotle Pork Carnitas is a popular Mexican dish known for its tender, flavorful, and juicy shredded pork. It’s made by slow-cooking pork in a combination of spices, including chipotle peppers, which add a smoky and spicy kick to the dish.

Chipotle Pork Carnitas start with a boneless pork shoulder or pork butt, which is generously seasoned with a mixture of spices such as salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and garlic powder. The star ingredient, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, adds a depth of smoky and spicy flavor. The pork is then seared on all sides to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.

After searing, the pork is slow-cooked for several hours, either in the oven or a slow cooker, until it becomes tender and easily falls apart. The low and slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together and infuse into the meat, resulting in deliciously moist and flavorful carnitas.

Once the pork is cooked, it is shredded into smaller pieces, typically using two forks. This creates the desired texture of tender, juicy meat that is perfect for filling tacos, burritos, or topping bowls of rice and beans. The shredded pork is often returned to the pan or oven to crisp up the edges, adding a delightful caramelized texture.

Chipotle Pork Carnitas can be served with a variety of accompaniments such as warm tortillas, fresh salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime juice. The combination of tender pork, smoky chipotle flavors, and fresh toppings creates a mouthwatering and satisfying meal that is loved by many.

Whether enjoyed at home or in a Mexican restaurant, Chipotle Pork Carnitas is a crowd-pleasing dish that captures the essence of authentic Mexican flavors. Its versatility and rich taste make it a favorite choice for gatherings, taco nights, or any occasion when you crave a delicious and comforting meal.

SERVES: 10–12

INGREDIENTS:

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (3-pound) pork shoulder roast
• 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 thinly sliced onion
• 4 medium tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 whole cloves
• 2 dried chipotle chilies
• ¾ cup water or meat stock

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Season the pork shoulder roast with salt and pepper, to taste. Allow the meat to come to room temperature.
3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof pan over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the pork in the pan for about 5 minutes per side, until browned. Remove the pork from the pan and let it rest for 10–15 minutes.
5. In the same pan, add the thinly sliced onion and cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
6. Return the pork to the pan and add the tomatoes, dried oregano, cumin powder, bay leaves, whole cloves, dried chipotle chilies, and water or meat stock.
7. Cover the pan and place it in the preheated oven. Cook for 2–3 hours, until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 140°F–150°F.
8. Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven and let the roast rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
9. Slice the pork and serve it with the flavorful pan juices and onions.