Pork Carnitas

Pork Carnitas is a flavorful Mexican dish, featuring tender, slow-cooked pork that's perfectly seasoned and can be enjoyed in a low-carb wrap or on its own. This keto-friendly version retains all the authentic taste while keeping the carbs to a minimum.

Pork Carnitas
180 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Mexican
400 kcal

Ingredients

  • Pork shoulder - 500 grams
  • Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
  • Onion - 1 small, chopped
  • Cumin - 1 teaspoon
  • Oregano - 1 teaspoon
  • Chili powder - 1 teaspoon
  • Salt - 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Lime juice - 2 tablespoons
  • Water - 250 ml

Steps

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks and season with cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Add the seasoned pork to the pot, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
  5. Pour in the lime juice and water, and bring to a simmer.
  6. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the pork cook for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until it is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
  7. Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot and allow it to cool slightly before shredding it with two forks.
  8. Optional: For crispy carnitas, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5-7 minutes until the edges are crispy.
  9. Serve the carnitas warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and your choice of keto-friendly toppings.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 400
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Carbs: 3 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
  • Total Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

  • High in protein, which supports muscle maintenance and repair.
  • Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for ketogenic diets.

Tags

MexicanKetoDinner