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Pork Shoulder Recipe

Pork Shoulder Recipe: Succulent, Juicy Carnitas in 45 Minutes

This Pork Shoulder Recipe delivers succulent carnitas in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 330

Ingredients
  

For the Carnitas
  • 3 pounds Pork Shoulder Boneless is easier to manage.
  • 1 cup Grapefruit Juice Orange juice is a good substitute.
  • 1 medium Onion Any type of onion works.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is best.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Dried thyme can be swapped.
  • 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin Do not substitute for authentic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Adjust amount to suit spice tolerance.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Omit for strictly savory.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Remove before serving.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Sea salt is a great alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Brightens the dish when serving.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Do not skip for fresh finish.

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot Carnitas
  1. Add the pork shoulder, grapefruit juice, onion, garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, chili powder, ground cinnamon, bay leaf, and kosher salt into the Instant Pot. Mix well and seal the lid. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
  2. Once the pressure has released, carefully remove the lid and transfer the cooked pork shoulder onto a baking sheet. Preheat your broiler and shred the pork using two forks, discarding excessive fat.
  3. Spread the shredded pork evenly on the baking sheet and broil for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring halfway through until golden-brown.
  4. Once crisped, remove from the oven, squeeze lime juice over, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve with corn tortillas or rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 330kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Ensure large chunks for even cooking and monitor while broiling to prevent burning. Fresh ingredients elevate flavor.

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