Savory Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos
This Savory Instant Pot Carnitas recipe yields perfectly tender and flavorful shredded pork that can elevate any meal. Inspired by a delightful recipe from Food 52's Posie Harwood, these carnitas are an ideal dish for gatherings or quiet weeknight dinners alike. In just under an hour, achieve melt-in-your-mouth pork that's perfect for tacos, salads, or even breakfast hashes. Experience the vibrant combination of lime and orange juice complemented by aromatic spices, making these carnitas an unforgettable addition to your culinary repertoire.
6
Servings
350
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless pork roast
3 lbs (cut into 2-inch cubes)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
Onion
1 (thinly sliced)
Garlic cloves
3 (minced)
Limes
2 (juiced)
Fresh orange juice
1/3 cup (freshly squeezed)
Chicken stock or beer
1 cup
Ground cumin
1 tablespoon
Dried oregano
1 tablespoon
Bay leaf
1
Chili powder
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Salt and pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Start by cutting the boneless pork roast into 2-inch cubes for even cooking. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2
Add the pork cubes in batches, brown them on all sides for a few minutes, then transfer them to the main pot. This step intensifies the flavor of the carnitas.
3
Once all the pork is browned, add the sliced onion, minced garlic, lime juice, orange juice, chicken stock (or beer), ground cumin, dried oregano, bay leaf, and optional chili powder to the Instant Pot.
4
Secure the lid on the pot, ensuring it is in the 'sealing' position. Select 'Manual' mode and set the cooking time to 20 minutes.
5
After the cooking cycle is complete, let the Instant Pot naturally release steam for 20 minutes for tender results. Carefully move the steam valve to 'venting' to release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.
6
Shred the pork using two forks, allowing it to soak in its juices to retain moisture. If the mixture appears too liquidy, simmer it in a separate pan on the stovetop until some liquid evaporates and the pork gains a crispy texture. Alternatively, broil it in the oven for a minute or two to achieve that desired crispy finish.
7
Serve the carnitas as tacos with warm tortillas, topped with pineapple salsa, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy them on salads, in sandwiches, or as savory breakfast hashes!
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
8g
Carbs
25g
Protein
0.8g
Fiber
3g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main ingredient in Savory Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos?
The main ingredient is 3 lbs of boneless pork roast, cut into 2-inch cubes.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains 350 calories.
How long should the pork cook in the Instant Pot?
The pork should be cooked on Manual mode for 20 minutes.
How long is the natural steam release period?
The Instant Pot should naturally release steam for 20 minutes.
What is the recommended size for cutting the pork roast?
The pork roast should be cut into 2-inch cubes for even cooking.
Can I use beer instead of chicken stock?
Yes, the recipe allows for 1 cup of either chicken stock or beer.
What setting is used to brown the pork?
The Sauté mode is used to brown the pork cubes in olive oil.
How much fat is in one serving of these carnitas?
Each serving contains 20g of fat.
How much protein is provided per serving?
Each serving provides 25g of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 8g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much sugar is in the recipe per serving?
There is 3g of sugar per serving.
How much fiber is in the carnitas?
There is 0.8g of fiber per serving.
What citrus juices are used in the recipe?
The recipe uses the juice of 2 limes and 1/3 cup of fresh orange juice.
Which aromatic spices are included in the recipe?
The spices include ground cumin, dried oregano, a bay leaf, and optional chili powder.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe calls for 3 minced garlic cloves.
Is the chili powder a required ingredient?
No, the 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder is optional.
How do you shred the cooked pork?
The pork should be shredded using two forks while soaking in its juices.
How can I make the carnitas crispy after cooking?
You can simmer the shredded pork in a separate pan or broil it in the oven for a minute or two.
What are some suggested ways to serve carnitas?
They can be served as tacos, on salads, in sandwiches, or as breakfast hashes.
What toppings are recommended for the tacos?
Recommended toppings include pineapple salsa, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Who inspired this carnitas recipe?
This recipe was inspired by Posie Harwood from Food 52.
How much olive oil is used for sautéing?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
How many onions are required?
One thinly sliced onion is required.
What is the total number of ingredients listed?
There are 12 total ingredients listed.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include pork, carnitas, instant pot, tacos, pressure cooker, mexican, and quick meal.
What should I do if the pork mixture is too liquidy?
Simmer it in a separate pan on the stovetop until some liquid evaporates.
What is the total cooking time including pressure release?
It takes 20 minutes of manual cooking plus 20 minutes of natural release, totaling 40 minutes plus prep.
Is there sodium or cholesterol information available?
No, the sodium and cholesterol values are not provided in this specific data.
What kind of tortillas should be used for serving?
The recipe suggests serving the carnitas with warm tortillas.