Cooking Carnitas: Bringing a Taste of Michoacán to Your Kitchen

#mexicanfood #mexicancuisine #carnitas #tacos

Carnitas, one of the most beloved dishes in Mexican cuisine, hails from the state of Michoacán in western Mexico. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Michoacán is the birthplace of this flavorful and tender pork dish that has won the hearts of food lovers around the world. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or new to Mexican cuisine, preparing carnitas at home is a rewarding and delicious experience. Here's how to make authentic carnitas, and how El Paisano can help you bring the flavors of Michoacán to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder (cut into large chunks)

• 1 cup lard or vegetable oil

• 1 orange (halved)

• 1 onion (quartered)

• 4 cloves garlic

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tbsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp oregano

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the lard or vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add the pork shoulder chunks to the pot, searing them on all sides until golden brown.

3. Squeeze the orange halves over the pork, then drop the halves into the pot.

4. Add the onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon.

5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the pork simmer gently for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shredded.

6. Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high to allow any excess liquid to evaporate, letting the pork fry in its own fat until crispy on the edges.

7. Shred the pork with two forks, mixing it with the crispy bits and remaining juices in the pot.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your carnitas with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, guacamole, and lime wedges for a truly authentic Mexican meal. Pair it with pickled red onions and a sprinkle of cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Short on Time? Try Chata Ready-Made Carnitas

For those days when you crave the taste of authentic carnitas but are short on time, El Paisano has you covered. We proudly offer Chata ready-made carnitas, a brand known for its high-quality products and commitment to preserving the traditional flavors of Mexico. Simply heat and serve for a quick and delicious meal that doesn't compromise on taste.

Visit Us for All Your Carnitas Needs

Whether you're preparing carnitas from scratch or opting for the convenience of Chata ready-made carnitas, you can find everything you need at El Paisano. Our store is stocked with all the essential ingredients to bring the flavors of Michoacán to your table. Visit us at 678 Dunsmuir St unit 50, Vancouver, to explore our selection and discover the true taste of Mexico.

With El Paisano, enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine has never been easier. Come by and let us help you create a culinary experience that transports you straight to the heart of Michoacán. ¡Buen provecho!

Visit our online store