Irresistible Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe for Taco Night

The aroma of tender, slow-cooked pork fills the air, mingling with zesty lime and spicy cumin to create a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. This Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration on your dinner table, perfect for taco night or when you need a cozy feast.

Imagine biting into a crispy carnitas taco topped with fresh avocado and vibrant cilantro. Memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the joy of sharing good food flood back. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend fiesta, this recipe promises mouthwatering results that make every occasion special.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe

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

• Bone-in Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for carnitas due to its marbling, which keeps the meat juicy and flavorful during cooking.
• Onion: A sweet onion adds depth to the flavor; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key for adding robust flavor; use more if you love garlic!
• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens up the dish with citrus notes.
• Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice adds acidity and enhances all those wonderful flavors.
• Cumin: This spice gives your carnitas that warm, earthy flavor we all crave in Mexican dishes.
• Mexican Oregano: Unique to Mexican cuisine, this herb provides an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your personal preference.

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 Ingredients

Start by cutting the pork shoulder into large chunks (about three inches). This helps it cook evenly and makes shredding easier later on.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Turn your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add a drizzle of oil and toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant about two minutes should do!

Step 3: Add Pork and Spices

Add the pork chunks back into the pot along with cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, orange juice, and lime juice. Give everything a good stir to coat the meat evenly.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Seal your Instant Pot lid and set it to “Manual” high pressure for about 60 minutes. Yes, that’s right—just sit back and relax while it works its magic!

Step 5: Release Pressure

Once cooked, allow for natural pressure release for about ten minutes before switching to quick release. Just be careful not to get splattered!

Step 6: Shred and Crisp

Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. For extra crispiness (and who doesn’t love crispy?), spread it out on a baking sheet and broil in your oven for about five minutes.

Transfer to plates or warm tortillas and top with your favorite garnishes like avocado or salsa for that perfect finishing touch!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the pork first for that crispy edge, then sauté the onions and garlic while preparing your spices. Add everything to the Instant Pot and let it work its magic. This sequence ensures deliciously tender carnitas with layers of flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the pork for chicken or beef if you’re feeling adventurous. Spice it up with chipotle peppers for heat, or add citrus zest for a fresh twist. satisfying creamy chicken dish Customizing this dish makes it truly yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, ensuring they stay juicy and delicious.

Sometimes I wonder how I got my friends hooked on this Instant Pot Carnitas recipe—they literally beg me to make it every Taco Tuesday! It’s become a staple at our gatherings, and I can’t help but chuckle at their happy faces when they dig in.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for the Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe?

For a delicious Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe, gather pork shoulder, onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, oregano, and bay leaves. You may also want to include salt and pepper for seasoning. These ingredients work together to create tender, flavorful carnitas that are perfect for tacos or burritos. delicious shrimp tacos Feel free to add extra spices according to your taste preferences. With these key components, you’ll achieve that authentic Mexican flavor right at home!

How long does it take to cook Carnitas in an Instant Pot?

Cooking carnitas in an Instant Pot takes about 60 to 70 minutes in total. This includes approximately 10 minutes for sautéing and 50 minutes of pressure cooking. After cooking, let the pressure naturally release for about 10-15 minutes before opening the lid. This method ensures your meat becomes tender and absorbs all the rich flavors from your spices and juices. Enjoy your meal with minimal waiting time!

Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different cuts of meat for making instant pot carnitas; however, pork shoulder is recommended for its rich flavor and tenderness. Alternatives like pork butt or even chicken thighs can work well in this recipe too. hearty meat lovers casserole Keep in mind that different cuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time. Regardless of your choice, ensure that the meat has enough fat content to achieve that juicy texture everyone loves.

What toppings go well with Carnitas?

When serving your Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe, consider toppings like diced onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, or salsa for added flavor and freshness. You can also add shredded cheese or jalapeños if you enjoy some heat. Corn tortillas make an excellent base for these toppings while creating the perfect taco experience! Feel free to mix and match until you find your favorite combination!

Conclusion for Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe :

In summary, this Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe provides a quick yet flavorful way to enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine at home. By utilizing easy-to-find ingredients and following a straightforward cooking process, you can create tender carnitas that will impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to experiment with various toppings and serve them in tacos or burritos! Enjoy the convenience of the Instant Pot while savoring authentic flavors without spending hours in the kitchen! For more inspiration, check out this Spicy Chorizo Sweet Potato Chili recipe.