Delicious Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe for Taco Night

The aroma of perfectly cooked carnitas wafts through the air, teasing your senses with promises of savory goodness. This Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe will have you dreaming about its tender, flavorful meat that practically melts in your mouth while you imagine the crunch of fresh tacos or the delightful warmth of a burrito. ground turkey skillet

Picture this: it’s Taco Tuesday, and you’re about to elevate the experience from “meh” to “magnificent.” As the Instant Pot works its magic, you’ll be transported back to that cozy little taco shop where every bite felt like a warm hug. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or simply craving a comforting dinner, these carnitas are sure to hit the spot and create memories worth savoring.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pork Shoulder: Look for well-marbled pork shoulder for tenderness and flavor. A 3-4 pound piece is ideal.
• Onion: A medium-sized onion adds depth. Chop it finely to release its sweet flavors.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give a robust flavor; use about four cloves minced.
• Oregano: Dried oregano lends an earthy note; Mexican oregano works best but regular will do.
• Cumin: This spice brings warmth; about one tablespoon should do the trick.
• Bay Leaves: These enhance the aromatic quality; add two dried leaves for subtle flavor.

For the Sauce:

• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens up the dish; about half a cup is perfect.
• Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice balances out sweetness; around two tablespoons is sufficient.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by cutting your pork shoulder into large chunks to fit inside your Instant Pot. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Turn on the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Once hot, add oil and toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Brown Your Meat

Add the pork chunks into the pot, browning them on all sides for that delightful caramelization. This step is crucial it adds layers of flavor!

Step 4: Add Spices and Juices

Sprinkle in oregano, cumin, bay leaves, orange juice, and lime juice over your browned meat. Stir well to combine all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Seal your Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for about one hour. Trust me; you’ll hear some serious hissing during this time don’t worry; it’s just excitement!

Step 6: Shred and Crisp

Once done cooking, allow natural pressure release for about ten minutes before doing a quick release. Carefully shred your carnitas with two forks right in the pot. For extra crispiness, spread them onto a baking sheet and broil them in your oven briefly.

Transfer to plates and serve with fresh tortillas, diced onions, cilantro, or whatever toppings tickle your fancy! Enjoy every last bite of these scrumptious carnitas while basking in compliments from everyone around—because let’s face it, you’ll definitely be getting them!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning and searing your pork until it’s golden brown. While that sizzles, chop your onions and garlic for a flavorful base. brown sugar garlic chicken Then, add everything into the Instant Pot and let it work its magic for perfectly tender carnitas every time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pork for chicken or beef if you’re in the mood for something different. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cumin to elevate the flavor profile. You can also toss in some chipotle peppers for a spicy kick! For more inspiration, check out this crock pot chicken burrito bowl recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat or pop them back into the Instant Pot for a quick refresh.

It was taco night when I first tried this Instant Pot Carnitas recipe, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was definitely a hit at our dinner party! street corn pasta salad.

FAQs :

What is the best cut of meat for Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe?

For the Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe, pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal. These cuts have a good amount of fat, which ensures tender and flavorful carnitas. The fat breaks down during cooking, making the meat juicy and easy to shred. Avoid lean cuts like pork loin, as they may dry out. If you can’t find pork shoulder, you can also use a mix of different cuts to enhance flavor and texture.

How long does it take to cook carnitas in the Instant Pot?

Cooking time for the Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe is relatively quick compared to traditional methods. Typically, it takes about 60 minutes under high pressure to achieve perfectly tender carnitas. After this, allow the pressure to release naturally for around 15 minutes before opening the pot. cheesy enchilada chili This method ensures that the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the meat moist and succulent.

Can I prepare Instant Pot Carnitas in advance?

Yes, you can easily prepare Instant Pot Carnitas in advance! Make a big batch and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving. This makes it convenient for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners, allowing you to enjoy delicious carnitas anytime.

What toppings pair well with carnitas?

When serving your Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe, consider toppings like diced onions, fresh cilantro, sliced radishes, and avocado. You can also add lime juice for brightness or your favorite salsa for extra spice. For a creamy touch, try sour cream or guacamole. These toppings enhance flavor and provide a colorful presentation that elevates your dish.

Conclusion for Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe :

In summary, the Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to enjoy tender shredded pork. Using pork shoulder or butt ensures rich taste and moisture in every bite. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking methods, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. Don’t forget to customize your toppings for a delightful finish! Enjoy your homemade carnitas with tortillas or rice for an unforgettable meal experience.

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Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe

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• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Experience the rich, savory flavors of Instant Pot Carnitas, transforming tender pork shoulder into succulent meat ideal for tacos, burritos, or nachos. This quick and easy recipe promises delicious meals for family and friends with minimal prep and cooking time. Indulge in authentic carnitas any night of the week and make every meal a memory!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 lbs pork shoulder
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks and season with salt and pepper.
2. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add oil, then sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add pork chunks to the pot and brown on all sides for enhanced flavor.
4. Stir in oregano, cumin, bay leaves, orange juice, and lime juice until well combined.
5. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release.
6. Shred the carnitas with two forks right in the pot. For extra crispiness, spread onto a baking sheet and broil briefly.
7. Serve with fresh tortillas and your choice of toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Pressure Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 85g
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 90mg