What To Know
- Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is fall-off-the-bone tender.
- Transfer the liquid to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth.
- Cook the pork until the sauce has thickened and the pork is crispy on the edges.
Are you tired of the same old leftover pork dishes? It’s time to unleash your culinary creativity and transform your leftover pork into tantalizing pork carnitas. This mouthwatering dish is a perfect blend of savory, juicy meat and crispy, flavorful skin. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make pork carnitas with leftover pork like a pro.
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover cooked pork (shoulder, loin, or roast)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Slow cooker (optional)
- Blender or immersion blender
Instructions
#1. Prepare the Pork
- Remove any excess fat or skin from the leftover pork.
- Shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
#2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
#3. Add the Pork and Spices
- Add the shredded pork to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook until the pork is browned, about 5 minutes.
#4. Deglaze with Citrus Juices
- Pour in the orange and lime juices.
- Stir to deglaze the pan and release any caramelized bits.
#5. Add Liquid
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce heat to low.
#6. Cook and Shred
- For stovetop: Simmer the pork for 1-2 hours, or until tender and juicy. Shred the pork using two forks.
- For slow cooker: Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is fall-off-the-bone tender. Shred the pork using two forks.
#7. Make the Sauce
- Remove the excess liquid from the pork using a slotted spoon.
- Transfer the liquid to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth.
- Return the sauce to the skillet with the shredded pork.
#8. Crisp the Pork
- Increase the heat to medium-high.
- Cook the pork until the sauce has thickened and the pork is crispy on the edges.
#9. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the pork carnitas with chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as tortillas, rice, beans, or salsa.
Tips for the Best Pork Carnitas
- Use high-quality leftover pork for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pork, or it will become dry.
- If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute water or vegetable broth.
- Add a pinch of chili powder or cumin for an extra kick of flavor.
- Serve the pork carnitas with a variety of toppings to create your own unique dish.
FAQ
Q: Can I use any type of leftover pork?
A: Yes, you can use any type of leftover cooked pork, such as shoulder, loin, or roast.
Q: How can I make the pork carnitas even more flavorful?
A: You can add a variety of spices and seasonings to the pork, such as chili powder, cumin, paprika, or oregano.
Q: Can I make pork carnitas in advance?
A: Yes, you can make pork carnitas in advance and reheat them when you’re ready to serve. Simply store the carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
