These Zesty Carnitas Tacos are a mouthwatering and satisfying Mexican dish. The succulent and tender pork carnitas are seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices and cooked until they develop a deliciously crispy exterior. The tacos are then topped with zesty salsa, creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and fresh cilantro for a burst of Mexican flavors. This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends and family. Get ready to delight your taste buds with these zesty carnitas tacos!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 avocados, sliced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Directions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the pork shoulder chunks to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the browned pork shoulder and stir well to coat.
- Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the pork simmer for 2 hours, or until it is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
- Once the pork is cooked and tender, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks.
- Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil and warm them in the oven for about 10 minutes.
- To assemble the tacos, spoon some shredded pork onto each warmed tortilla. Top with a dollop of salsa, a few slices of avocado, a squeeze of lime juice, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
- Serve the zesty carnitas tacos warm and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Carnitas means 'little meats' in Spanish, and the dish originated in the Mexican state of Michoacán.
Traditional carnitas are simmered in lard until tender, but this recipe uses a healthier cooking method by using a Dutch oven and chicken broth.
Carnitas tacos are often served with pickled onions, radishes, and a variety of salsas to add extra flavors and textures.