Last weekend, we ate at a Mexican restaurant in our neighborhood. I ordered a carnita plate and could not wait for my meal to arrive. To say that my meal was a disappointment would be putting it VERY mildly. I tried to power through, but my mind was already wandering off, planning a rematch. Me verses Carnitas…. and this time, I was going to win. And that,my frens is how carnitas arrived on my plate last night. The were savory, and citrusy, and so soft they shredded when you put a fork to them. They were amazing. THE END.
If you have not had carnitas before, the word simply means “little meats”. Authentic carnitas are made by braising or simmering pork in lard or oil for a few hours until tender. The result is very juicy and soft morsels of meat. My recipe is not authentic since I substitute citrus juice, water and spices for the oil when braising, but the meat is tender, juicy and super flavorful. Once the liquid evaporates, the meat then browns in it’s own fat, making a less greasy dish all around. These are excellent with your favorite Mexican toppings on a tortilla, or even in a salad. Whichever way you decide to go with the sides, I’m sure you will have no complaints. There were none to heard around here, that’s for sure!
- 5 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large cubes
- 6 limes, juiced
- 6 oranges, juiced
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 11/2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2½ teaspoons salt
- 2 cups water
- In a large pot (or dutch oven), combine all the ingredients. Bring to boil and reduce the heat to low.
- Allow to cook uncovered until all the liquid evaporates. This takes about 2 hours.
- Once the liquid has cooked off, turn the heat up to medium and allow the meat to start to render off fat, and brown, turning often. This takes about 30-40 minutes.
- Once the meat is nicely browned and starting to shred, remove from heat and serve.
- Serve on a tortilla with topping, or with rice, beans and salsa.
Weekly reflection:
Today, words fail. This afternoon, a family we have been praying for will lay their 6 year old to rest. Our city has rallied and prayed for this family without ceasing, and has exemplified this verse so well. There are no words to make the pain go away. Today, as tears flow so freely, we mourn a life gone too soon, and celebrate a life so well lived. We hug our loved ones a little tighter, and remember that we are not guaranteed tomorrow.
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- “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
- – Romans 12:15
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- “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.”
- – Helen Keller
Ben Muraya
Mouth watering recipe!!
Kari
😀
Nyambici
Now get really creative and make this as a chicken and then a lamb dish. I have thrown the gauntlet.
Kari
Challenge accepted 😆