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Savouring Instant Pot Carnitas: A Delicious Twist on a Mexican Classic

If you’re looking to bring authentic Mexican flavours to your kitchen in record time, look no further than Instant Pot Carnitas. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the richness of the flavours that meld together in a matter of hours. With an Instant Pot, you can enjoy tender, juicy pork carnitas in a fraction of the time it would traditionally take, making it an ideal option for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings.

What Are Carnitas?

Carnitas, which translates to “little meats” in Spanish, is a traditional Mexican dish made from pork. The meat is typically braised and cooked slowly until tender, then shredded and crisped up for added texture. Classic accompaniments include warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime, but the versatility of carnitas means you can adapt them to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up a batch of Instant Pot Carnitas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 kg pork shoulder (also known as pork butt), trimmed and cut into large chunks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 oranges, juiced (or 1 cup of orange juice)
• 1 cup chicken broth (optional for added flavour)

Cooking Instructions

1. Season the Meat: In a large bowl, mix the pork chunks with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and minced garlic. Ensure the pork is evenly coated.

2. Sauté: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned pork in batches, searing the meat on all sides until browned. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavour profile of the carnitas.

3. Pressure Cook: Remove the browned meat and set it aside. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened. Then, return the pork to the pot, squeezing in the lime and orange juice while adding the chicken broth, if using. Ensure the meat is submerged in the liquid, then secure the lid on the Instant Pot.

4. Cook: Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 10 minutes before switching to quick release for any remaining pressure.

5. Shred and Crisp: Carefully remove the pork from the pot, using two forks to shred the meat. For added texture, spread the shredded carnitas on a baking tray and broil in the oven for about 5-8 minutes until the edges are crispy. This step is optional, but it really adds to the overall experience.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of carnitas lies in their versatility. Serve your succulent pork in warm corn or flour tortillas, topped with finely chopped onion, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of lime juice. For a heartier meal, consider serving them over rice or in a burrito bowl with your favourite toppings, such as avocado, salsa, and beans.

Carnitas also make for an excellent filling in tacos, quesadillas, or even atop a nacho platter with melted cheese and jalapeños for an indulgent twist.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Carnitas are a delightful way to enjoy the robust and comforting flavours of traditional Mexican cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that not only brings warmth and satisfaction to your table but is also a hit at any gathering. So, fire up your Instant Pot and treat your taste buds to this culinary delight! Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration, carnitas can elevate any meal into a memorable occasion.

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