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Main courseMexicanEasy

Citrus-Garlic Carnitas (No-Fuss)

Instant Pot pork carnitas flavored with orange juice and garlic, finished with a quick pan sear for extra texture.

Citrus-Garlic Carnitas (No-Fuss)

Total

1h 15m

Prep

10 min

Cook

1h 5m

Serves

2

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Servings

Recipe serves 2

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pork shoulder (boneless), cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp orange zest(optional)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. 1

    Prep (10 minutes): Pat pork dry, then season all over with salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Mince garlic and zest the orange if using.

  2. 2

    Instant Pot cook (65 minutes total): Add pork to the Instant Pot. Stir in orange juice, lime juice, garlic, and orange zest (if using). Lock lid and cook on High Pressure for 35 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural release. Quick-release any remaining pressure.

  3. 3

    Finish with pan sear (within remaining time): Transfer pork to a bowl and shred with two forks. Skim off excess liquid if needed, then heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear shredded pork in batches for 3–5 minutes until edges are browned and crisp, stirring occasionally. Serve hot with any juices from the pan.

Nutrition per serving

Calories

610

31% of a 2,000 kcal day

Protein44 g
Carbohydrate10 g
Fat42 g
Fiber1 g
Sugar6 g
Sodium920 mg

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