Cultures/Mexican/carnitas
Mexican Cuisine
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carnitas

Carnitas are a traditional Mexican dish made by braising or simmering pork in oil or preferably lard until tender and flavorful, resulting in succulent, crispy pieces of meat. It is often used as a filling for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes, embodying the rich culinary heritage of Mexico with its balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors.

7 ingredients
savorycrispyrichcitrusy
Mexican70%
Spanish30%

Ingredients

  • pork shoulder
    3 pounds
  • lard
    1 cup
  • orange juice
    1/2 cup
  • garlic cloves
    4 cloves
  • salt
    to taste
  • black pepper
    1 teaspoon
  • bay leaves
    2 leaves

Method

Steps not available

Carnitas originated in the Mexican state of Michoacán, where indigenous cooking methods combined with Spanish-introduced pork to create this beloved dish, traditionally prepared during festive occasions and communal gatherings.

Ingredient ancestry breakdown

ingredients+techniques
ingredient_origin
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