Ingredients

1/8 cup apple cider vinegar
1/8 cup lime juice
1/2 tablespoon garlic
1/2 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 tablespoon sea salt
1/4 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 bay leaf
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
2 lbs pork shoulder
Carnitas are a classic Mexican dish that is made by slow-cooking pork shoulder in a fragrant spice mixture until it's juicy and crispy. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. The carnitas recipe traces its roots back to Michoacán, Mexico, where it was traditionally cooked in copper pots until it fell apart into tender shreds. Nowadays, it's a popular street food in Mexico and the United States, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. So, if you're craving something meaty, flavorful, and comforting, try making carnitas at home today!

Instructions

1.In a small bowl, mix apple cider vinegar, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, black pepper, sea salt, cinnamon or nutmeg, and bay leaf together.
2.Add this mixture to the pork shoulder in a slow cooker and stir well to ensure the pork is coated.
3.Pour chicken broth and Tabasco sauce to the slow cooker and cook on high for 4-5 hours or until the pork is cooked through and falling apart.
4.Once cooked, remove pork from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
5.In a large pan, heat some oil over medium-high heat and add the shredded pork.
6.Cook for a few minutes until nicely browned, stirring occasionally.
7.Serve hot with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, diced onion, sliced avocado, and lime wedges.

PROS

Carnitas are a crowd-pleaser that is juicy, crispy, and delicious.

It is a perfect dish for parties and potlucks that can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Moreover, it can be cooked quickly and easily in a slow cooker that makes the meat fall-off-the-bone tender.

CONS

Carnitas are a high-calorie dish containing a lot of saturated fat.

It is not optimal for those watching their caloric intake or those who follow a low-fat diet.

Moreover, it can be high in sodium due to the added salt in the recipe.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite being high in calories, carnitas are rich in protein that helps in building and repairing muscles.
Additionally, pork shoulder contains zinc that boosts the immune system.
Moreover, it is easy-to-cook and a great option for those looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

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