I’m an absolute pork freak, and of all the ways to prepare it, carnitas might have to be the tops for me.
They are fatty and flavorful, and are hella good with avocados. What’s not to like. They also are naturally paleo/gluten free if you use this way of cooking them. No oil, just water, fresh citrus juice, pork, and cumin. Oh, and I added bacon because, well, yum.
Now, I ate these with corn tortillas, but these would be equally delicious served on arugula instead.
Carnitas
This is adapted very slightly from Homesick Texan’s recipe, which is the best I’ve found.
3lb pork shoulder, diced into 2in cubes
1/2 cup fresh orange juice (2 oranges)
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (2-3 lines)
3 tsp kosher salt
1tsp cumin
5 garlic cloves, diced
2-3 bacon strips (sugar free if paleo!) preferably frozen and diced into lardons
1. In a Dutch oven, combine juices, salt, cumin, and garlic. Add in pork and add enough water so the pork is barely covered.
2. Bring meat to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Simmer meat for 2 hours. Do not touch the meat.
3. After 2 hours, add in the bacon. Increase heat and occasionally stir until both sides are browned.
Enjoy with plenty of fresh avocado, onion, lime, and cilantro!!
