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Instant Pot Carnitas

Instant Pot Carnitas: Tender Tacos in Under an Hour

Discover how to make delicious Instant Pot Carnitas with tender pork, ready in under an hour for unforgettable taco nights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Natural Pressure Release 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pork
  • 3 pounds Pork Butt Can substitute with pork shoulder if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Oil Any cooking oil can be used.
For the Flavor
  • 2 medium Oranges Use fresh; substitute with lime juice for a different citrus touch.
  • 1 large Onion Yellow or white onion works best.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Substitute with garlic powder if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Essential for authentic flavor; add more spices as desired.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Essential for authentic flavor; add more spices as desired.
For Cooking
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Can replace with vegetable broth for a lighter dish.

Equipment

  • Instant Pot
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork butt on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer to Instant Pot.
  2. In the Instant Pot, place the seared pork and top with chopped onion, minced garlic, and oranges. Squeeze the oranges over the pork.
  3. Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the Instant Pot, ensuring all ingredients are well distributed.
  4. Secure the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
  5. Let pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then switch to quick release. Open the lid with caution.
  6. Shred the pork with two forks, mixing with remaining juices. Remove orange peels if desired.
  7. For a crispy texture, turn on the sauté function and cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Serve the carnitas topped with avocado, salsa, cilantro, and lime in warm tortillas or as a bowl over rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 28gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, ensure to brown the pork well before pressure cooking and use enough broth for moisture.

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