Imagine the sizzle and aroma of tender pork carnitas filling your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a festive gathering, this dish is a celebration of flavor and simplicity. The secret lies in the blend of spices and slow cooking, transforming the pork into something truly extraordinary. Sprinkle on some cilantro, cheese, and white onions, and don’t forget the hot sauce for that extra kick. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends, but it’s also keto-friendly, allowing you to indulge without guilt.
Pork Carnitas
Transform your mealtime with these easy-to-make, irresistibly delicious Pork Carnitas. A keto-friendly delight that promises leftovers for days!
Ingredients
- 4-5 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into large 5-inch chunks
- 2 tbsp Mexican red chile powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 bay leaves
- 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh squeezed lime juice
- 3-4 cups of water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Cut pork shoulder into large chunks and place into a mixing bowl.
- Mix red chile powder, cumin, and salt, then rub on pork until well seasoned.
- In a large pan or pot, place seasoned pork in a single layer.
- Add lime juice, garlic, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cover with water until it covers ¾ of the pork.
- Place in the oven uncovered for 3½ hours, turning the meat at least once halfway through.
- Remove pork from the oven and discard bay leaves and cinnamon sticks. Reserve liquid and shred pork with forks.
- Line an oven-safe pan with foil and transfer pork to pan. Pour some reserved liquid over it.
- Place pork back in the oven until crispy. For extra crispy tops, broil for a few minutes.
Breakdown of Ingredients and Average Carb Content
Indulge in this low-carb feast without the worry! Here’s a quick look at the carb content of our main ingredients:
- Pork Shoulder: 0g carbs (protein-rich!)
- Mexican Red Chile Powder: Approximately 1g per tablespoon
- Cumin: Less than 1g per teaspoon
- Cinnamon Stick: Less than 1g per stick
- Garlic Cloves: Around 1g per clove
- Lime Juice: 1g per tablespoon
The total carb content remains minimal, making these pork carnitas a perfect centerpiece for your keto diet.
A Culinary Celebration
Who said following a keto diet means missing out on the flavors you love? These Pork Carnitas are a testament to the rich, satisfying meals you can enjoy while staying true to your health goals. With minimal prep and a whirlwind of flavors, this recipe is set to become a cherished favorite. Gather your loved ones, serve up these delicious carnitas, and watch as they become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!
