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Lime wedge with pulled meat

Mexican Pulled Pork Carnitas

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5 from 1 review

This Mexican Pulled Pork Carnita recipe is not only Whole30, Paleo and Keto-friendly but also simple and delicious.  By combining pork with some simple spices and cooking it in an Instant Pot, Slow Cooker or in the oven, these pork carnitas make the perfect meal.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs pork butt, trimmed of fat, cut into 2 inch sections
  • 6 garlic cloves,
  • 2 tsp oregano
  • 2 tsp coriander
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 4 tsp salt
  • 1 clementine

Instructions

In an Instant Pot

  • Set a Instant Pot to the high saute setting (I have the Ninja Foodie and I love it!)
  • Heat olive oil
  • Working in two batches, add pork and cook until evenly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in crushed clementine, lime juice, garlic, oregano, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper.
  • Select manual setting; adjust pressure to high, and set time for 30 minutes.
  • When finished cooking, quick-release pressure according to manufacturer’s directions.
  • Remove pork shoulder from the Instant Pot and shred the meat using two forks
  • Season with salt and pepper, to taste, if needed.

 

In a slow cooker

  • Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker
  • Set on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours
  • When finished cooking, remove pork and shred.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste

 

In the oven

  • In a large Dutch oven over medium high heat, heat oil.
  • Working in batches, add pork and sear on all sides. 
  • Add all ingredients to the Dutch oven and cover with lid.
  • Transfer to oven and cook until pork is beginning to turn tender, about 2½ to 3 hours.
  • Remove lid and cook until pork is very tender and pulls apart easily with a fork.

 

Notes

  • See post on ways to crisp pork either in the oven or in a skillet
  • Author: Cat
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Meals
  • Cuisine: Whole30, Keto, Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 279
  • Fat: 19.2 g
  • Protein: 26.5 g
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