Mexican carnitas are made with slow-cooked pork shoulder, braised with lime and spices. They’re so juicy and flavorful to serve with tacos, burritos, gorditas, tostadas, sopes, nachos, and so much more. This easy recipe requires only one pot.

Ingredients

4 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, chopped

6 garlic cloves, minced

2 oranges, juiced

1 lime, juiced

2 teaspoons cumin

2 teaspoons oregano

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups chicken broth

Corn tortillas for serving (or use homemade ones from the previous recipe)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Season the pork chunks generously with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

Heat the ARC Stainless Steel Mexican Cazo on medium-high using the propane burner. Add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the pork in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the pork and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

In the same wok, add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.

Step 4: Deglaze the Wok

Pour in the juice of the oranges and lime, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the wok.

Step 5: Simmer the Carnitas

Add the seared pork back into the wok along with the bay leaf and chicken broth. Stir to combine, making sure the pork is partially submerged. Bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cover the wok with a lid or foil and reduce the heat to low. Let the pork cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and shreds easily.

Step 7: Shred the Pork

Remove the pork from the wok and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the wok and cook on high heat for an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp up the edges.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the carnitas on warm corn tortillas with your favorite toppings such as cilantro, onion, and salsa.

Conclusion

Making carnitas in the ARC Stainless Steel Mexican Cazo is a game-changer for outdoor cooking. The high heat and spacious wok allow for perfect searing, tender slow-cooking, and crisping all in one pot. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or cooking a family meal, these carnitas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of smoky flavors and tender, juicy pork is unmatched. Serve them up on warm tortillas, and you’ve got a feast that everyone will love!