Amy’s Homemade Carnitas

🌮 Amy’s Homemade Carnitas 🌮

What is it?
Amy’s Homemade Carnitas is a delicious Mexican dish made from tender, slow-cooked pork that’s typically shredded and then served as a filling for tacos, burritos, or as a topping for nachos. It’s known for its rich, savory flavor and crispy texture.

History:
Carnitas has its origins in the Mexican state of Michoacán. The word “carnitas” translates to “little meats” in Spanish, which perfectly describes the dish. Traditionally, carnitas were made by simmering large chunks of pork in lard until they became tender and golden brown. Over time, the cooking method has evolved, and today, carnitas are often prepared using a variety of cooking techniques, including slow-cooking in ovens or on stovetops.

Components:

• Pork: Typically, pork shoulder or pork butt is used for carnitas due to its flavorful and fatty nature.
• Seasonings: Carnitas are seasoned with a combination of spices such as cumin, oregano, garlic, and bay leaves.
• Citrus: Citrus, often oranges and limes, are used to add a bright, tangy flavor.
• Cooking fat: Traditionally, lard is used, but you can also use oil or a combination of oil and butter for a slightly lighter version.

Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a simplified version of how to prepare Amy’s Homemade Carnitas:

1. Preparation: Cut the pork into chunks and season it with a mixture of your chosen spices, garlic, and citrus juice. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.

2. Cooking: Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your cooking fat, and once it’s hot, sear the pork chunks until they’re browned on all sides.

3. Slow Cooking: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the pork simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. You can also use a slow cooker for this step, cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

4. Shredding: Once the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork, remove it from the heat. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces using forks.

5. Crisping: For that irresistible crispy texture, return the shredded pork to the pan and cook it over medium-high heat, allowing it to crisp up. Be sure to stir occasionally.

6. Serving: Serve the carnitas in warm tortillas or use them as a topping for tacos, burritos, or nachos. Garnish with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, onions, and cilantro.

Time Needed:

• Preparation: 30 minutes (marinating time)
• Cooking: 2-3 hours (or 6-8 hours if using a slow cooker)
• Total Time: Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours (or 6.5 to 8.5 hours with a slow cooker)

Amy’s Homemade Carnitas are a labor of love, but the result is well worth the effort. Enjoy this flavorful, crispy, and succulent Mexican dish with your favorite emoji-filled fiesta! 🌮🎉😋

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Amy’s Homemade Carnitas:

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 3 ounces of cooked carnitas):

• Calories: 190
• Total Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 45mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 20g
• Vitamin D: 0%
• Calcium: 2%
• Iron: 8%
• Potassium: 6%

Health Information:

1. Protein Source: Carnitas are a good source of protein, with approximately 20 grams of protein per serving. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.

2. Moderate Fat Content: Carnitas contain around 11 grams of total fat per serving, with 4 grams of saturated fat. While it’s not a low-fat dish, the fat content contributes to its rich flavor. Be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your fat intake.

3. Low in Carbohydrates: Carnitas are virtually carbohydrate-free, making them a suitable choice for low-carb or ketogenic diets.

4. Nutrient Variety: Although carnitas are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, they do provide some iron, which is important for oxygen transport in the body.

5. Sodium Content: The sodium content in carnitas is relatively low, with about 45mg per serving. This makes it a better choice for individuals who need to watch their sodium intake.

6. Serving Consideration: Keep in mind that the nutrition facts provided are for the carnitas meat alone and do not include any additional ingredients like tortillas, toppings, or sides. The overall nutritional profile of your meal will depend on how you serve the carnitas.

As with any dish, moderation is key to maintaining a balanced diet. You can adjust the serving size and pair your carnitas with healthier sides like vegetables and whole-grain tortillas to create a more nutritionally balanced meal. Enjoy your homemade carnitas while keeping your dietary preferences and health goals in mind! 🌮🥗🍽️