“Carnitas,” which translates to “little meats,” has its origins in Michoacán, and the culinary world is unquestionably enriched by its existence. In the traditional preparation, carnitas is fried in pork lard within a copper pot until it reaches a fork-tender consistency, followed by searing on a hot griddle to achieve a delightful caramelization. Carnitas are a versatile meat, with tacos standing as the most renowned dish.

In Michoacán, the craft of making carnitas revolves around a core selection of herbs, including bay leaves, thyme, and marjoram. This fragrant blend, collectively known as “Hierbas de Olor,” or “herbs that smell,” forms the aromatic foundation of this traditional dish. However, the beauty of carnitas lies in their adaptability, as every family has their unique twist and variation that defines the recipe. Some opt to incorporate Mexican Coke, prized for its cane sugar content, while others introduce milk, or even chipotle peppers for an extra burst of flavor and spice.

Amidst these variations, one tradition endures: the use of pork lard for frying the succulent pork. This method mirrors deep frying in many ways, with the pork undergoing a slow roasting process in the oven after being removed from the lard bath, giving it an extraordinary depth of flavor. While procuring a tub of pork lard may prove challenging, the reward is well worth the effort, as it imparts a profoundly rich and robust pork essence into the final creation.

The Secret To The Best Flavor

Achieving perfect Mexican carnitas doesn’t require a journey to Mexico, though it would make a great vacation. Crafting flawless carnitas can unfold within the cozy confines of your home.

Selecting the ideal cut of pork is vital to the dish. You’ll want to look for either “shoulder” or “butt” because they have the best balance of meat-to-fat ratio. The gradual rendering of the inherent pork fat during the slow roasting process plays a pivotal role in enriching the overall pork flavor.

Design Your Own Carnitas Street Tacos

Making street tacos is fairly straightforward once you have your carnitas recipe mastered. However, the magic truly unfolds in the realm of condiments, where personal preferences can greatly impact the dish. Here are the four essential elements that contribute to the creation of a perfect street taco:

1. • Pickled Red Onions. These offer not only a subtle crunch, but also a delightful tangy contrast to the sweet and savory allure of the carnitas. If you need help with preparing this, check out my recipe.
   • Diced white onions and cilantro, a classic combination, stand out as a taco staple, a ubiquitous offering at taco stands and restaurants alike. They add a refreshing and aromatic element to complement the flavors.
   • Amazing roasted salsa. Among the myriad of salsa varieties found in Mexico, my personal favorite is ֘the roasted rendition. The charring of onion, jalapeños, and tomato skins imparts a depth of flavor and character that is unmatched. You can explore our version of roasted salsa to elevate your taco game.Check out our version of roasted salsa.
   • Lastly, the tortilla, the foundation of any great taco. While personal preference plays a role, my go-to choices are either flour or white corn tortillas. Other popular options include blue or yellow corn. The key is to discover the tortilla variety that resonates most with your palate.

Endless Possibilities

Carnitas is one of those dishes I like to make in batches because it freezes perfectly and has endless recipe possibilities.

You can craft a hearty breakfast bowl with black beans, eggs, and potatoes; assemble delectable tacos or burritos; create a tantalizing Mexican Torta; or venture into the realm of culinary fusion to craft a unique dish. Whichever you choose, carnitas remains a versatile muse.