Is there a dish that instantly transports you to a sun-drenched memory, filled with laughter and celebration? For many, carnitas is that dish—the iconic Mexican dish of tender, slow-cooked pork, boasting a perfectly crispy exterior and a juicy interior.
Today, we’re revisiting this classic but with a thrilling, innovative twist. We’re saying goodbye to long waits and welcoming a brighter, more complex world of flavor. And at the heart of it all is a kitchen partner that empowers your creativity: the ARC Stainless Steel 21-inch Cazo.
A Modern Twist: The Symphony of Pineapple and Beer
While traditional carnitas are simmered with orange and milk for a rich flavor, our version introduces the sweet-tart acidity of tropical pineapple and the malty notes of light beer. This not only helps tenderize the pork but also introduces an unexpectedly refreshing finish.
What You’ll Need:
6-8 lbs pork shoulder (cut into large chunks)
1 fresh pineapple (peeled, cored, and cut into chunks, core reserved)
1 bottle (12 oz) light beer
1 large onion, roughly chopped
4-5 cloves garlic, smashed
Juice of 2 oranges
1 tbsp dried oregano
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chipotle powder (or to taste)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
¼ cup brown sugar
1 cinnamon stick (optional, for a hint of warmth)
The Creation Process:
1.Sear for Flavor: Pat the pork chunks completely dry with paper towels—this is the secret to a perfect sear. Heat a thin layer of oil in your ARC Cazo over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the pork until a beautiful brown crust forms on all sides. This step locks in the juices and builds a foundational flavor. The even heat distribution of the ARC Cazo prevents hot spots and ensures a uniform sear without burning.
2.Build the Braise: Return all the pork to the pot. Add the onion, garlic, reserved pineapple core (a natural tenderizer rich in enzymes and flavor), orange juice, beer, and all your spices. Add enough water to just barely cover the pork.
3.The Slow Simmer: Reduce the heat to a low, gentle simmer. Cover the Mexican Cazo and let the magic happen for 2.5 to 3.5 hours. During this time, the ARC Cazo‘s robust construction and tight-fitting lid maintain a stable, consistent temperature, allowing the pork to become fall-apart tender in a gentle, steady heat. You can go read a book, your work is done for now.
4.The Crispy Finish: Once the pork shreds easily with a fork, remove it from the pot onto a baking sheet, reserving some of the cooking liquid. Shred the pork, then toss it with the brown sugar and a splash of the reserved liquid. Spread the pork in an even layer and broil in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, until the edges are delightfully crispy.
5.Feast and Enjoy: Serve your crispycarnitas in warm tortillas with the fresh pineapple chunks, diced onion, and chopped cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice, along with your favorite salsa and avocado, is a must. This dish, a fusion of tropical flair and traditional comfort, is destined to be the star of your next backyard gathering.
Why the ARC Stainless Steel Cazo Belongs in Your Kitchen
A reliable dish, from a slow braise to a reduction, demands a reliable partner. The ARC Cazo is built for exactly that.
Built to Last a Lifetime: Crafted from high-quality stainless steel, it won’t rust like cast iron can, nor will it chip or peel like non-stick coatings. It’s a kitchen heirloom in the making, ready to handle everything from weeknight meals to festive feasts.
The Perfect Size for Gathering: The 41QT capacity means you can comfortably cook for a crowd. Whether you’re making stew, gumbo, or a giant batch of party carnitas, this pot has you covered.
Unmatched Ease of Use: Unlike carbon steel or cast iron cazos that require seasoning and constant rust prevention, a stainless steel Cazo is virtually maintenance-free. It’s forgiving to clean and dishwasher-safe (though handwashing is recommended for long-term brilliance), letting you focus on the joy of cooking, not the upkeep of your tools.
Caring for Your ARC Stainless Steel Cazo
Making it your kitchen’s longest-lasting friend is simple:
First Use: Simply wash with warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly. No complicated “seasoning” ritual is needed.
Cleaning: After cooking, allow the pot to cool before cleaning. Use mild dish soap and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. For stuck-on food, a paste of baking soda and water works wonders.
Maintaining the Shine: Dry it after washing to prevent water spots. For a brilliant shine, use a stainless steel cleaner occasionally.
Pro Tip: To prevent food from sticking during searing, ensure your ARC Cazo is fully preheated before adding oil and ingredients.
The ARC Stainless Steel 21-inch Cazo is more than just a pot; it’s an investment in flavor, gathering, and a life well-lived. Use it to create your own delicious, innovative stories with all your favorite Mexican dishes.
