Carnitas Tacos Recipe In A Pressure Cooker

If you’re craving the delicious flavors of tender and juicy carnitas tacos but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, then this article is for you. In just a short amount of time, you can whip up a mouthwatering batch of carnitas using a pressure cooker. This recipe will guide you through the steps of creating perfectly seasoned, fall-apart pork that is perfect for stuffing into warm tortillas and topping with your favorite garnishes. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick and easy way to enjoy authentic carnitas tacos at home.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

To make delicious carnitas tacos in a pressure cooker, you will need the following ingredients:

Pork shoulder or butt: This cut of meat is perfect for carnitas tacos as it has the right amount of fat to keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
Salt: Adds a savory taste and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Pepper: Provides a mild heat and complements the flavors of the pork.
Cumin: Adds a warm and earthy flavor to the carnitas.
Oregano: Gives a hint of herbal freshness to the dish.
Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
Garlic powder: Provides a rich and aromatic taste to the carnitas.
Orange juice: Adds a touch of sweetness and brightness to the dish.
Lime juice: Adds a refreshing tanginess that balances the flavors of the carnitas.
Chicken broth: Provides moisture and adds depth of flavor to the meat.

Equipment

To make the carnitas tacos, you will need the following equipment:

Pressure cooker: A pressure cooker helps to tenderize the pork quickly and infuse it with the flavors of the seasonings and juices.
Tongs: Useful for handling the hot pork during cooking and shredding.
Cutting board: To hold and cut the pork after it is cooked.
Knife: A sharp knife is essential for trimming the excess fat from the pork and for shredding it later.
Bowls: You will need bowls to hold the seasonings, as well as for serving the shredded pork and toppings.

Preparation

Before you start cooking, it’s important to prepare the pork and season it properly. Here’s how to do it:

Trim excess fat from the pork: Start by removing any large pieces of visible fat from the pork shoulder or butt. This will help prevent the carnitas from becoming too greasy.
Season the pork with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, onion powder, and garlic powder: In a bowl, mix together the seasonings. Rub the mixture all over the pork, making sure to coat it evenly with the spices.
Heat the pressure cooker on the sauté function: Place the pressure cooker on the stove and set it to the sauté function. Allow it to heat up.

Cooking

Now that the pork is seasoned and the pressure cooker is hot, it’s time to start cooking the carnitas:

Add the seasoned pork to the pressure cooker and sear on all sides: Using tongs, carefully place the seasoned pork in the hot pressure cooker. Sear the pork on all sides until it forms a golden brown crust. This step helps to develop a deeper flavor.
Pour in orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth: Once the pork is seared, pour in the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth. The juices add moisture and flavor to the meat as it cooks.
Secure the lid on the pressure cooker: Make sure the lid is securely locked in place. This is important to create the necessary pressure for cooking the carnitas.

Cooking

Now it’s time to let the pressure cooker work its magic and cook the carnitas to perfection:

Set the pressure cooker to high pressure and cook for 45 minutes: Adjust the pressure cooker to the high-pressure setting and set the timer for 45 minutes. The high pressure and longer cooking time will ensure that the pork becomes tender and flavorsome.
Allow the pressure to naturally release for 15-20 minutes: Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15-20 minutes. This step is important to avoid any accidents and to let the flavors settle.
Use tongs to transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board: Carefully remove the pork from the pressure cooker using tongs and transfer it to a cutting board. Be cautious as the pork will be hot and tender.
Shred the pork using two forks: Using two forks, shred the cooked pork into small, bite-sized pieces. The pork should be so tender that it easily falls apart.
Optional: Return the shredded pork to the pressure cooker to simmer in the remaining liquid for added flavor: If you want to enhance the flavor of the carnitas even further, you can return the shredded pork to the pressure cooker and let it simmer in the remaining liquid. This step allows the meat to absorb more of the flavorful juices.

Serving

The cooked and shredded pork is now ready to be assembled into delicious carnitas tacos. Here’s how to serve them:

Warm corn tortillas: Heat up corn tortillas either on a griddle or in a microwave until warm, soft, and pliable.
Place a generous portion of shredded pork on each tortilla: Spoon a generous amount of the shredded pork onto each corn tortilla. Ensure that each taco gets an equal amount of flavorful carnitas.
Add desired toppings such as diced onions, chopped cilantro, and salsa: Customize your tacos with your favorite toppings. Diced onions, chopped cilantro, and salsa are popular choices that add freshness and texture to the carnitas.
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos: Squeeze a fresh lime over the assembled tacos. This adds a zesty citrusy note that complements the flavors of the carnitas.
Serve with additional sides like beans, rice, or guacamole: Complete your meal by serving the carnitas tacos with traditional sides like beans, rice, or guacamole. These sides add variety and create a well-rounded meal.

Variations

If you’re looking to add a twist to your carnitas tacos, here are some delicious variations to try:

Spicy Carnitas Tacos

To add some heat to your carnitas, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the cooking liquid. This will infuse the meat with a spicy kick.

Pineapple Carnitas Tacos

For a sweet and tangy twist, include pineapple chunks in the pressure cooker. The pineapple not only adds a burst of flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat.

Crispy Carnitas Tacos

If you enjoy a crispy texture, you can crisp up the shredded pork in a pan with some oil after shredding it. This adds a delightful crunch to the carnitas.

Tips

To ensure the best results and to make your carnitas tacos even more delicious, here are some helpful tips:

For extra flavor, marinate the pork in the seasoning overnight: If you have the time, marinating the pork overnight allows the flavors to penetrate the meat even more, resulting in even tastier carnitas.
If you prefer a crispier texture, broil the shredded pork in the oven after cooking: After shredding the pork, spread it out on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes until it becomes crispy. This will give your carnitas a satisfying crunch.
Leftover carnitas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for future use: If you have any leftover carnitas, make sure to store them properly. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for future use. Simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Customize your toppings with ingredients like sliced avocado, queso fresco, or pickled onions: Get creative with your toppings and experiment with different flavors and textures. Sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, or tangy pickled onions are all great options to add to your carnitas tacos.

History of Carnitas Tacos

Carnitas tacos have a rich history rooted in Mexican cuisine. Here are a few interesting facts about the origin and evolution of carnitas:

Originated in Mexico as a way to cook meat in its own fat: Carnitas originated in the state of Michoacan, Mexico. It was a traditional way of cooking pork by slowly simmering it in its own fat until tender and flavorful.
Traditionally made by simmering pork in lard until tender and crispy: Authentic carnitas were traditionally made by cooking pork in large copper pots filled with lard. This cooking process allowed the meat to become tender and rendered the fat, resulting in crispy and succulent carnitas.
The word ‘carnitas’ translates to ‘little meats’ in Spanish: The name “carnitas” comes from the Spanish word “carne,” which means “meat.” The suffix “-itas” is a diminutive, indicating smallness or tenderness. Hence, carnitas refers to small, tender, and flavorful pieces of meat.
Carnitas tacos have become popular in many parts of the world: Over time, carnitas tacos have gained popularity not only in Mexico but also in many parts of the world. Their delicious flavors and versatility make them a favorite choice for taco lovers everywhere.

Health Benefits of Carnitas Tacos

While carnitas tacos are known for their taste and indulgence, they also offer some health benefits. Here are a few reasons why carnitas can be a nutritious choice:

Good source of protein from the pork: Pork is a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
Rich in essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins: Pork is also packed with essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. These nutrients play a vital role in supporting various bodily functions and maintaining overall health.
Can be made with lean cuts of pork for a healthier option: If you’re conscious about fat intake, you can choose lean cuts of pork for your carnitas. Trimming excess fat and opting for leaner cuts can help reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
Can be paired with fresh vegetables and whole grain tortillas for a balanced meal: To make your carnitas tacos even healthier, consider adding fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados. Additionally, using whole grain tortillas adds dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you full for longer.

Conclusion

Making carnitas tacos in a pressure cooker is a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy this classic Mexican dish. By following the steps outlined above, you can achieve tender and flavorful shredded pork in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or simply craving a delicious meal, carnitas tacos are sure to satisfy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own unique twist on this traditional recipe. So gather your ingredients, fire up your pressure cooker, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering feast of carnitas tacos!