Carnitas, a staple in Mexican cuisine, is a dish that brings out the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork belly, resulting in crispy, tender, and flavorful meat. Traditionally prepared in large copper pots and simmered in lard, this dish has been passed down through generations, offering a perfect combination of juicy, caramelized pork with crispy edges.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Carnitas, including the history, cooking techniques, and a variety of recipes to help you make the best pork belly carnitas at home.
The History of Carnitas
Carnitas, which translates to “little meats” in Spanish, originated in the state of Michoacán, Mexico. It is a dish deeply rooted in tradition, where large cuts of pork are slow-cooked until tender and then crisped to perfection.
The method of cooking carnitas was influenced by Spanish settlers who introduced pork to Mexico in the 16th century. Since then, it has become a celebrated dish, especially in Mexican street food culture, where it is often served in tacos, burritos, and tortas.
Traditionally, carnitas are cooked using pork lard in a copper cauldron, giving the meat a distinct flavor and texture. However, modern adaptations have led to new techniques using slow cookers, ovens, and even air fryers.
Choosing the Right Cut of Pork
While many variations of carnitas exist, pork belly is one of the best cuts for achieving a balance between crispy skin and tender meat. Other popular cuts include:
- Pork Shoulder (Pork Butt) – A classic choice for making carnitas due to its fat content.
- Pork Loin – Leaner but can still produce good results when cooked properly.
- Pork Ribs – Used in some regional variations for added texture.
Why Use Pork Belly?
Pork belly is an excellent choice because:
- It has a high-fat content that keeps the meat juicy.
- The skin becomes crispy when cooked properly.
- The layers of fat and meat absorb seasoning well.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Carnitas
To achieve the perfect carnitas, you need the right blend of seasonings and aromatics. Here are the essential ingredients:
Base Ingredients
- Pork Belly – Skin-on, boneless, and cut into chunks.
- Lard or Oil – Traditionally, lard is used for frying.
- Salt and Pepper – To enhance natural flavors.
Flavor Enhancers
- Garlic – Adds depth to the pork.
- Onion – Provides a subtle sweetness.
- Bay Leaves – Infuses a mild herbal flavor.
- Orange Juice – Gives a slight citrusy caramelization.
- Cinnamon Stick – Adds warmth.
- Oregano – Offers earthy notes.
- Cumin – Provides smokiness.
Traditional Mexican Pork Belly Carnitas Recipe
This traditional carnitas recipe follows the classic Michoacán style, where pork is slow-cooked in lard and then crisped to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 4 cups lard (or vegetable oil)
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 onion, quartered
- 6 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Render the Lard: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the lard over medium heat.
- Add the Pork Belly: Carefully place the pork chunks into the hot lard and cook until lightly browned.
- Season: Add onion, garlic, bay leaves, cinnamon, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer Slowly: Pour in the orange juice, reduce the heat to low, and cook uncovered for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally.
- Crisping the Meat: Once the pork is tender, increase the heat and allow it to crisp up in its own fat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Drain and Serve: Remove from the pot and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Shred and Enjoy: Serve in tacos, burritos, or tortas with salsa and toppings of your choice.
Oven-Baked Pork Belly Carnitas
For those who prefer a healthier version, baking pork belly carnitas is a great alternative.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork belly, cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup orange juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
Instructions
- Preheat Oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Prepare the Pork: Rub pork belly with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin.
- Arrange in a Baking Dish: Place the pork in a baking dish, add sliced onions and minced garlic.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and orange juice.
- Cover and Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 2.5 hours.
- Crisping the Pork: Remove the foil, turn the heat to 425°F (220°C), and roast for another 20-30 minutes until crispy.
- Shred and Serve: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Slow Cooker Pork Belly Carnitas
For an easy, hands-off version, using a slow cooker is a great option.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork belly, cut into chunks
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup lime juice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
Instructions
- Season the Pork: Place pork belly in the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin.
- Add Aromatics: Add garlic, onion, orange juice, and lime juice.
- Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker to LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
- Crisping the Pork: Remove the pork and place on a baking sheet. Broil for 5-10 minutes until crispy.
- Shred and Serve: Serve with warm tortillas and toppings.
Air Fryer Pork Belly Carnitas
For a quick, crispy, and healthier option, try making carnitas in an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork belly, cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ cup orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the Pork: Toss pork belly with olive oil, salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
- Cook for 20 Minutes: Arrange pork belly in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Increase Temperature: Turn up the heat to 400°F (200°C) and air-fry for another 5-10 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Shred and serve in tacos or bowls.
Serving Suggestions
Carnitas pairs well with traditional Mexican sides, including:
- Corn or Flour Tortillas
- Pico de Gallo
- Guacamole
- Salsa Verde or Roja
- Pickled Onions
- Cilantro and Lime Wedges
Final Thoughts
Pork belly carnitas is an incredibly flavorful and versatile dish that can be made using various cooking methods. Whether you prefer traditional frying, baking, slow-cooking, or air frying, the key is slow cooking to render the fat and finishing with a crispy texture.
Try one of these recipes today and enjoy authentic Mexican carnitas at home!
