Ultimate Oven Pork Carnitas Recipe: A Flavorful Journey to Tender, Crispy Perfection

**Oven Pork Carnitas Recipe** (烤箱猪肉卡尼塔斯食谱)#### Introduction to Oven Pork CarnitasIf you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that will impress you……

**Oven Pork Carnitas Recipe** (烤箱猪肉卡尼塔斯食谱)

#### Introduction to Oven Pork Carnitas

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends, look no further than the **oven pork carnitas recipe**. This Mexican classic is known for its rich flavors and tender meat, making it perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply served with rice and beans. In this guide, we will explore the steps to create the perfect carnitas in your oven, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.

#### Ingredients for the Perfect Oven Pork Carnitas

To make the best **oven pork carnitas**, you will need the following ingredients:

- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)

- 1 onion, quartered

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon ground cumin

- 1 tablespoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- Juice of 2 limes

- 1 cup chicken broth

- Optional: bay leaves, jalapeño for added spice

These ingredients work together to create a savory and aromatic dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

#### Preparing the Pork Shoulder

Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven is heating, take your pork shoulder and trim any excess fat. This will help ensure that your carnitas are tender without being overly greasy. Cut the pork into large chunks, about 2-3 inches in size. This will help the meat cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the spices.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork pieces, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. The spices will infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks.

#### Cooking the Carnitas

In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, place the quartered onion at the bottom. This will serve as a flavorful base for your carnitas. Next, add the seasoned pork on top of the onions. Squeeze the lime juice over the meat and pour in the chicken broth. If you’re using bay leaves or jalapeño, add them now for extra flavor.

Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Allow the pork to cook for 3-4 hours, or until it is fork-tender and easily shreds apart. The low and slow cooking method ensures that the meat becomes incredibly tender while absorbing all the delicious flavors.

#### Shredding and Crisping the Carnitas

Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and carefully take off the lid. The steam will be hot, so be cautious. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. At this point, you can choose to serve the carnitas as they are, or you can take it a step further for that perfect crispy texture.

To crisp up the carnitas, spread the shredded meat out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle a little bit of the cooking liquid over the top for added moisture. Broil in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

#### Serving Suggestions

Your **oven pork carnitas** are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them in warm corn tortillas with your favorite toppings, such as diced onions, fresh cilantro, avocado, and salsa. They also make a great filling for burritos or a topping for nachos.

#### Conclusion

The **oven pork carnitas recipe** is a fantastic way to bring the flavors of Mexico into your home. With its tender meat and crispy edges, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these carnitas are a delicious and satisfying option. Don’t forget to make extra, as leftovers are perfect for meal prepping throughout the week! Enjoy your culinary adventure!