Teresa's Recipes
Keto Pork Carnitas
Embark on a tantalizing journey to the heart of Mexico with these Keto Pork Carnitas. This dish features tender, succulent pork shoulder marinated in a vibrant blend of aromatic herbs and spices, then slow-roasted to create an unforgettable taste experience. The slow cooking process ensures that the pork becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while a quick pan-fry adds a delightful crispy exterior. Traditionally enjoyed during festive gatherings, these carnitas fit perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, making them a delicious option for health-conscious foodies. Serve them in crisp lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas, topped with avocado, fresh salsa, or cilantro for a vibrant feast that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds, trimmed and cut into 2-inch chunks Pork shoulder
- 6 cloves, minced Garlic
- 2 teaspoons Cumin
- 1 tablespoon Dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons Smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon, freshly ground Black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime Lime
- 1/4 cup Avocado oil
- 1 cup Water
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 8
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 0g
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks, about 2 inches in size.
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, freshly ground black pepper, juice from one lime, and avocado oil. This will serve as your marinade.
- Rub the marinade generously all over the pork shoulder chunks, making sure they are well coated. Let the marinated pork sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Place the marinated pork shoulder chunks in a large, oven-safe dish. Pour water into the dish until it's about half an inch deep.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast the pork for 3-4 hours, or until it is tender enough to easily shred with a fork.
- Once the pork is thoroughly cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly for easier shredding.
- Use two forks to shred the cooked pork into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shredded pork to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes crispy and browned.
- Serve your delicious keto-friendly Pork Carnitas in crisp lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas. Garnish with your favorite toppings such as diced avocado, fresh salsa, and chopped cilantro.
Tips
- For added flavor, let the marinated pork sit in the refrigerator overnight.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices such as chili powder or coriander for a unique twist.
- Serve with a side of cauliflower rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.