carnitas recipe instant pot
- The Best carnitas recipe instant pot
- Easy Instant Pot Carnitas with Crispy Tortillas
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Easy Instant Pot Carnitas with Crispy Tortillas Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Carnitas with Crispy Tortillas
The Best carnitas recipe instant pot
The Instant Pot makes this recipe even easier, but the real magic is in the pork itself. When the meat breaks down into those perfect shreds, it’s like nothing else—savory, slightly crispy, and packed with depth. It’s not just a comfort food; it’s a balanced dish because the pork is leaner than you’d think, and the spices keep things light without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s versatile. You can serve it with warm tortillas, over rice, or even in tacos, burritos, or bowls. It’s that kind of dish that feels special but doesn’t cost a fortune. And honestly? It’s one of those recipes that never disappoints, no matter how often you make it.
Easy Instant Pot Carnitas with Crispy Tortillas
Tender, fall-off-the-bone pork carnitas slow-cooked in the Instant Pot, served with homemade tortillas for a restaurant-style meal. Perfect for tacos, bowls, or sandwiches.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in, cut into 2-inch chunks)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 package store-bought flour tortillas (8-inch)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Place pork shoulder chunks in the Instant Pot. Add chicken broth, orange juice, vinegar, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir gently to combine. -
2
Set the Instant Pot to High Pressure and cook for 8 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. -
3
Transfer pork to a large skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pork is crispy and golden brown on all sides—about 10–12 minutes. -
4
Heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side until soft and pliable. Keep warm in a towel-lined bowl.
🔧Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the pork for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Use leftover carnitas in tacos, quesadillas, or as a filling for stuffed peppers.
- Adjust salt to taste, as the broth and vinegar add flavor.
Watch Video Of How Easy Instant Pot Carnitas with Crispy Tortillas Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Carnitas with Crispy Tortillas
How long should I cook the carnitas in the Instant Pot?
Yes, the typical cook time for Instant Pot carnitas is about 6–8 minutes on the high-pressure setting. After releasing the pressure, you’ll need to braise the meat for an additional 15–20 minutes on low heat to tenderize it fully.
Do I need to brown the meat before putting it in the Instant Pot?
It’s helpful to brown the pork chops or pork shoulder in a skillet before adding them to the Instant Pot. Browning adds flavor, but it’s not strictly necessary if you’re using pre-cut carnitas.
What’s the best way to check if the carnitas are done?
The meat should fall apart easily when you fork it. If it’s still firm, return it to the Instant Pot for another 2–3 minutes on high pressure, then braise longer. The liquid should also reduce slightly for a richer sauce.
Can I add vegetables to the Instant Pot with the carnitas?
Yes! You can stir in bell peppers, onions, or even a handful of corn kernels while cooking. Just reduce the liquid slightly to avoid overflowing the pot.
