Carnitas Street Tacos

March 30, 2026 Prep: 15min Cook: 180min 8 servings Easy
Carnitas Street Tacos

Carnitas, meaning "little meats," is a Mexican pork dish traditionally braised in lard until tender, then crisped until golden. These street-style tacos feature that perfect combination of meltingly tender meat with caramelized, crispy edges.

Ingredients

  • 1.5kg pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
  • 1 orange, juiced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 250ml cola or water
  • Small corn tortillas
  • Diced white onion
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Salsa verde

Nutrition Facts

320
Calories
28g
Protein
22g
Carbs
14g
Fat

Instructions

  1. 1
    Place pork chunks in a Dutch oven. Add orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and cola.
  2. 2
    Cover and cook at 160°C (325°F) for 3 hours until pork is very tender and easily falls apart.
  3. 3
    Remove pork and shred with two forks. Reserve the braising liquid.
  4. 4
    Heat a large skillet over high heat. Spread shredded pork in a single layer and cook without stirring until the bottom gets crispy and caramelized, about 5 minutes. Flip and repeat.
  5. 5
    Drizzle a few tablespoons of braising liquid over the crispy pork to add moisture and flavor.
  6. 6
    Warm corn tortillas on a dry skillet or over an open flame.
  7. 7
    Serve pork in doubled-up tortillas topped with diced onion, cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and salsa verde.
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