Carnitas is pork confit, so the meat and the fat both matter: a well-marbled shoulder and real lard to cook it in. The technique is two-stage, a low slow braise in fat until fork-tender, then cranking the heat at the end to crisp the edges without drying the inside.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep15 min
Cook3 hours
Makes8 servings
CuisineMexican
Cost$$
Gluten-freeDairy-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for8servings
Pork shoulder
A fatty bone-in or boneless shoulder stays juicy through the long cook.
A light hand — your arteries say thanks. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortA project
Cook it with
Instant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
Start the confitPut pork chunks in a heavy pot with the lard, quartered onion, garlic, orange juice and spent halves, and a big pinch of salt. Add water to nearly cover.
Braise lowSimmer gently over low heat, uncovered, 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat shreds with a fork and the water has cooked off, leaving the fat behind.
Crisp itRaise the heat to medium-high and let the pork fry in its own rendered fat, stirring occasionally, 10 to 15 minutes until the edges brown and crisp.
Shred and servePull the pork into rough shreds, keeping some crisp bits, and pile onto warm tortillas with onion, cilantro, and lime.
Can you make Carnitas in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Carnitas? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Carnitas ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Carnitas gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Carnitas vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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