Authentic Pork Carnitas

Ingredients

• 4 lbs Pork shoulder (butt)
• 2 tbsp Lard or vegetable oil
• 0.5 cup Orange juice
• 2 tbsp Lime juice
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 1 tsp Dried oregano
• 1 tsp Ground cumin
• 2 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black pepper
• 1 medium Onion
• 1 piece Cinnamon stick(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Cut the pork shoulder into 2-inch cubes, removing excess large chunks of fat but keeping some for flavor.

2. 2

   Season the pork cubes generously with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.

3. 3

   In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the lard over medium-high heat and sear the pork in batches until browned on all sides.

4. 4

   Add the crushed garlic, chopped onion, orange juice, lime juice, and the cinnamon stick to the pot.

5. 5

   Add enough water or chicken stock to just barely cover the meat.

6. 6

   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 to 3 hours until the meat is fork-tender.

7. 7

   Remove the lid and increase heat to medium-low. Let the liquid evaporate until only the fat remains and the pork begins to fry in its own fat.

8. 8

   Discard the cinnamon stick. Use a spoon to lightly break the pork into smaller chunks while it crisps in the pot for about 10 minutes.

9. 9

   Serve immediately with warm tortillas, cilantro, and diced onions.