These Pressure Cooker Carnitas are incredibly tender, juicy, and flavorful, with a perfect balance of spices. Using a pressure cooker significantly reduces the cooking time compared to traditional methods, making this recipe a quick and easy way to enjoy delicious carnitas at home. Whether you’re preparing tacos, burritos, or a hearty salad, these carnitas are sure to impress!
Ingredients for Pressure Cooker Carnitas:
- 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 bay leaves
How to make Pressure Cooker Carnitas:
- Season the pork shoulder cubes with salt and pepper.
- Select the “Sauté” function on the pressure cooker and heat the vegetable oil.
- Add the pork shoulder cubes in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and jalapeño to the pressure cooker. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
- Return the pork shoulder cubes to the pressure cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth and lime juice. Add the bay leaves.
- Close and lock the lid of the pressure cooker. Cook at high pressure for 45 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the pork shoulder cubes from the pressure cooker and shred using two forks.
- Preheat the broiler. Place the shredded pork on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Broil for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are crispy.
- Serve the Pressure Cooker Carnitas hot, with your favorite toppings and sides.
About the main ingredients:
- Pork shoulder: Also known as pork butt, this cut is perfect for carnitas due to its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked.
- Onion, garlic, and jalapeño: Add flavor and aroma to the carnitas.
- Spices: A blend of cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper provides the traditional Mexican flavors.
- Chicken broth and lime juice: Add moisture and acidity to the dish, enhancing the flavors of the pork.
- Bay leaves: Infuse a subtle herbal note into the carnitas.
Enjoy these Pressure Cooker Carnitas in tacos, burritos, salads, or on their own for a delicious and satisfying meal!
