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Tender, fragrant, and downright irresistible, pork loin carnitas are a beloved Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect for any feast. This version uses lean pork loin seasoned with warm spices and bright citrus, then cooked until it’s juicy on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside. It’s the kind of meal that’s just as perfect for a backyard gathering as it is for a cozy home lunch. Let’s dive into this fiesta-ready favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork loin, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 orange
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions
Start by seasoning your pork loin chunks with salt, cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Add them to a hot Dutch oven or deep, heavy pot with a touch of olive oil. Brown the pork on all sides to lock in those savory flavors—this step should only take a few minutes.
Once the meat has a lovely golden crust, add your minced garlic, orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir gently to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom, because that’s where the magic happens. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover your pot, and let the pork cook slowly for about an hour. This gives the meat time to absorb every last drop of flavor.
After an hour, remove the lid and turn up the heat to medium-high. Allow most of the liquid to cook off, which concentrates the juices and results in wonderfully tender pork. Continue cooking until the pork starts to crisp up in its own rendered fat. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the edges of the meat are crispy and beautifully browned.
Serve your carnitas with warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, chopped onions, and a squeeze of lime. For a custom touch, you can garnish with crumbled queso fresco, avocado slices, or your favorite salsa.
These Fiesta-Style Pork Loin Carnitas are a true crowd-pleaser, whether you’re looking for a festive dinner party option or a quick family meal. Using pork loin keeps them lighter, yet still tender and full of zesty flavor. Feel free to modify the spices to suit your preferences—swap out chili powder for smoked paprika, or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce if you’d like an extra kick. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors and a leaner protein option. Enjoy experimenting with salsas, toppings, and serving styles to make these carnitas truly your own!
