instant pot pork carnitas recipe
The Best instant pot pork carnitas recipe
I’ve been making pork carnitas in my Instant Pot for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. This recipe is a staple in our household, especially during the holidays when we have large gatherings.
The dish originated in Mexico, where it’s typically made with slow-cooked pork that’s been marinated in spices and citrus juices. When I first started making this recipe, I was amazed by how easy it was to cook tender and flavorful meat without spending hours in the kitchen.
The Instant Pot has made it even easier to prepare this dish, allowing me to cook the pork quickly and evenly. My kids love helping me shred the pork with two forks, and they can’t get enough of the crispy tortillas and fresh cilantro on top.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also relatively healthy compared to other Mexican dishes.
The key to making great pork carnitas is to cook the meat low and slow, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and juicy. I’ve experimented with different spice blends over the years, but this recipe remains one of my favorites because of its simplicity and depth of flavor.
Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
Tender, juicy pork carnitas made quickly in the Instant Pot. The pork is seasoned with citrus and spices, then pressure cooked until fall-apart tender and crisped under the broiler.
🥘Ingredients
For the Pork
For Serving
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Works
This Instant Pot pork carnitas recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. I love that I can make a large batch for family gatherings or meal prep for the week, and everyone always asks for the recipe.
For storage, keep the shredded meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, just crisp it up in a hot skillet or under the broiler to bring back that crunchy texture.
Serve it on warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, pickled onions, or a squeeze of lime. It also works great over rice, in salads, or stuffed into baked potatoes.
This recipe is a keeper that will make your weeknight dinners and special celebrations so much better.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
What type of meat should I use for this recipe?
You can use either boneless pork shoulder or butt for this recipe. Both cuts will work well, but the shoulder is generally more tender due to its higher fat content.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
While you can make this recipe without an Instant Pot, it will require much longer cooking times. You can cook the pork in a slow cooker or over low heat on the stovetop, but be aware that the results may not be as tender or flavorful.
How long does it take to cook the pork in an Instant Pot?
The cooking time will depend on the size of your pork cut and your desired level of doneness. As a general rule, you can cook the pork for 30-40 minutes per pound. For example, if you’re using a 2-pound piece of pork, you can cook it for 1-1.5 hours.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to give this recipe your own twist. Some popular additions include diced onions, chopped cilantro, or a sprinkle of queso fresco.
How do I store leftover carnitas?
You can store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
