[FULL GUIDE] How To Make Carnitas In Instant Pot

Carnitas, a traditional Mexican dish of tender, flavorful, and crispy pork, can be easily made using an Instant Pot, offering a convenient and efficient cooking method. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making delicious carnitas in your Instant Pot. From selecting the right ingredients to troubleshooting common issues, you will learn everything you need to know to successfully create this mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Quick Answer: How Long To Make Carnitas In Instant Pot

Using an Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time required for making carnitas. Typically, you can expect it to take around 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the time for the pressure to build and release. This makes it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or when you want to enjoy a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Selection

To make perfect carnitas in the Instant Pot, choosing the right cut of pork is crucial. While traditionally made with pork shoulder, you can also use pork butt. Look for a piece that is well-marbled with fat, as this will result in juicy and tender carnitas. Additionally, ensure the meat is fresh and of high quality, as this will greatly impact the final flavor and texture of the dish.

Preparation

Properly preparing the pork before cooking it in the Instant Pot is essential for achieving the desired taste and texture. Begin by trimming any excess fat from the meat, as too much fat can result in greasy carnitas. Cut the pork into chunks of approximately 2-inch pieces, which will allow it to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the seasoning. Next, it’s important to season the pork generously with a blend of spices and aromatics, such as garlic, cumin, oregano, and citrus juice, to infuse it with irresistible flavors.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Carnitas

When using an Instant Pot to make carnitas, it is vital to understand the cooking times to ensure the pork is cooked to perfection. The high-pressure cooking setting of the Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time, resulting in tender and succulent carnitas in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional cooking methods. Understanding the cooking times allows you to plan your meal effectively and ensure the pork is cooked through while retaining its juiciness and flavor.

How To Make Carnitas In Instant Pot

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds of pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of chipotle powder or 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 orange, juiced
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/2 cup of chicken broth or water

Instructions

1. Season the Pork: In a large bowl, combine the pork chunks with salt, black pepper, cumin, and oregano, ensuring the meat is evenly coated with the seasoning.

2. Sear the Pork: Select the "Sauté" function on the Instant Pot and heat the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork chunks in batches and sear them on all sides until browned. Transfer the seared pork to a plate and set aside.

3. Prepare the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the Instant Pot and sauté for a few minutes until they become fragrant. Stir in the chipotle powder or chipotle peppers, orange juice, and lime juice, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and incorporate any flavorful bits.

4. Pressure Cook the Pork: Return the seared pork to the Instant Pot and add the chicken broth or water. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function and set the timer for 35 minutes at high pressure. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 15 minutes before carefully venting any remaining pressure.

5. Shred and Crisp the Carnitas: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked pork to a large baking sheet. Use two forks to shred the pork into smaller pieces. Optionally, place the baking sheet under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the edges of the carnitas.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the carnitas are crisped to your liking, serve them in tacos, burritos, or as a topping for rice or salads. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Pork Is Tough And Dry

If the pork turns out tough and dry, it might be due to overcooking. To remedy this, reduce the cooking time for the next batch of carnitas. Additionally, consider adjusting the thickness of the pork chunks, as thinner pieces may require less cooking time.

Lack Of Flavor

If the carnitas lack depth of flavor, consider marinating the pork in the seasoning for a longer period before cooking. Additionally, adjusting the amount of seasoning and aromatics to suit your taste preferences can enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Excess Liquid

Should you find that there is an excessive amount of liquid remaining after pressure cooking the pork, consider reducing the amount of added broth or water in the recipe. You can also use the "Sauté" function of the Instant Pot to simmer the liquid and reduce it to your desired consistency after cooking.

Making carnitas in an Instant Pot is a relatively simple process that yields incredibly flavorful and tender pork. By carefully selecting the right cut of pork, properly preparing and seasoning the meat, and understanding the Instant Pot cooking times, you can easily create delicious carnitas with minimal effort. With the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, as well as tips for troubleshooting common issues, you are well-equipped to make mouthwatering carnitas in your Instant Pot and delight your family and friends with an authentic Mexican culinary experience. So, gather your ingredients, set up your Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible taste of homemade carnitas.

Achieving Perfect Texture

Carnitas, a traditional Mexican dish made from slow-cooked pork, is known for its tender, juicy, and flavorful meat. Traditionally, making carnitas was a time-consuming process that required simmering the pork for hours in a large pot. However, with the advent of the Instant Pot, making carnitas has become quicker and easier. The Instant Pot is a multifunctional electric pressure cooker that allows you to achieve that perfect texture and flavor in a fraction of the time.

One of the key elements of great carnitas is achieving the perfect texture – tender and juicy on the inside, with a crispy and caramelized exterior. The Instant Pot allows you to achieve this texture by utilizing its pressure cooking function. The pressure cook setting creates a sealed environment, allowing the pork to cook under high pressure, which breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a tender and succulent texture.

To achieve the perfect texture, start by cutting the pork shoulder into chunks, about 2-3 inches in size. This will ensure that the meat cooks evenly and becomes tender throughout. Season the pork with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. You can use traditional Mexican flavors like cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and chili powder to enhance the taste of the carnitas.

Once seasoned, heat a tablespoon of oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Sear the pork chunks on all sides until they develop a golden brown crust. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. Searing the meat not only adds flavor but also helps to lock in the moisture, preventing the carnitas from becoming dry during pressure cooking.

Flavor Infusion

Aside from the texture, the flavor is another essential aspect of great carnitas. While the traditional method involves simmering the pork in a flavorful braising liquid, the Instant Pot allows for an even more intense and efficient infusion of flavors. The pressure cooking process not only tenderizes the meat but also allows it to absorb the flavors of the spices and seasonings in a shorter amount of time.

To infuse maximum flavor into your carnitas, create a braising liquid using a combination of broth, citrus juice (such as orange or lime), and aromatics like onions, garlic, and bay leaves. Pour this mixture over the seared pork in the Instant Pot. The liquid should cover about two-thirds of the meat, but make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line of the pot.

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure cook function to high pressure. For pork carnitas, a cooking time of around 45 minutes to an hour is usually sufficient to achieve the desired tenderness. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. This natural release allows the flavors to further penetrate the meat and ensures a moist and juicy final product.

Aroma

The aroma of carnitas is another important aspect that contributes to its overall appeal. Traditional carnitas are cooked slowly over low heat, allowing the aroma of the pork and spices to permeate the air. While cooking in an Instant Pot may not produce the same lingering aroma, there are ways to enhance the fragrance of your carnitas.

One option is to add additional aromatic ingredients to the braising liquid. Along with the onions and garlic, you can include herbs like cilantro, rosemary, or thyme, which will not only provide a pleasant aroma but also add depth to the flavors of the dish.

Another technique to enhance the aroma is to use the sauté function on the Instant Pot after the pressure cooking process. Remove the pork from the pot and strain the braising liquid, reserving it for later use. Heat some oil in the Instant Pot and sauté the pork chunks for a few minutes until they develop a crispy exterior. This step not only adds caramelization to the meat but also releases the enticing aroma of the cooked pork.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Carnitas

While the traditional method involves pressure cooking, there are alternative Instant Pot cooking methods that can also yield delicious carnitas.

Slow Cook Function: If you prefer a longer cooking time for your carnitas, the Instant Pot’s slow cook function can be used. After searing the pork, place all the ingredients in the pot, and set the slow cook function on low or high, depending on your preference. Cooking on low will result in more tender meat, while high will cook the carnitas faster. Slow cooking allows the flavors to intensify over time and produces melt-in-your-mouth pork.

Broil Function: Once the carnitas have been pressure cooked or slow-cooked, you can use the broil function in the Instant Pot to achieve that coveted crispy exterior. Transfer the cooked pork to a baking sheet lined with foil, brush it with some of the reserved braising liquid, and broil on high for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on the pork to prevent it from burning. This final step adds a delightful crunch and caramelization to the carnitas.

Tips For Making Carnitas In Instant Pot

To ensure the best possible outcome when making carnitas in an Instant Pot, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Use a boneless pork shoulder: Boneless pork shoulder is the ideal cut for making carnitas. It has a good amount of fat, which keeps the meat moist and adds flavor during the cooking process. Avoid using lean cuts of pork, as they can become dry and tough.

2. Cut the pork into chunks: Cutting the pork into chunks ensures that it cooks evenly and results in tender and juicy carnitas. Avoid using large pieces of meat, as they will take longer to cook and may not achieve the desired texture.

3. Sear the pork before pressure cooking: Searing the pork before pressure cooking adds flavor and creates a crispy exterior. This step enhances the overall texture and taste of the carnitas.

4. Do not overfill the Instant Pot: Make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line of the Instant Pot when adding the pork and braising liquid. Overfilling can lead to clogging of the vent and uneven cooking.

5. Natural release vs. quick release: For the best texture and flavor, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. This natural release ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender.

6. Adjust seasoning before serving: Taste the carnitas once they are cooked and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, spices, or even a squeeze of citrus juice to brighten the flavors.

7. Serve with traditional accompaniments: Traditional carnitas are often served with warm tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and chopped onions and cilantro. These accompaniments complement the flavors of the carnitas and add freshness to the dish.

Creative Instant Pot Carnitas Recipes And Variations

While the classic carnitas recipe is always a crowd-pleaser, there are numerous variations and creative recipes you can try in your Instant Pot to add your own twist to this traditional dish. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Hoisin Carnitas: Add a touch of Asian flair to your carnitas by combining hoisin sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in the braising liquid. The result is a sweet and savory flavor profile that pairs well with a fresh slaw and steamed buns.

2. Pineapple Carnitas: Incorporate a tropical twist by adding pineapple juice to the braising liquid. The acidity and sweetness of the pineapple complement the richness of the pork and add a delightful tropical aroma.

3. Beer-Braised Carnitas: Swap out some of the braising liquid with your favorite beer for a unique flavor profile. The beer adds depth and richness to the carnitas and enhances the caramelization during the broiling step.

4. Spicy Chipotle Carnitas: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the braising liquid. The smoky and spicy flavors will give your carnitas a bold and memorable taste.

Conclusion

Making carnitas in an Instant Pot is a game-changer, allowing you to achieve the same tender and flavorful meat in a fraction of the time. By utilizing the pressure cooking function and following the tips and techniques mentioned above, you can create carnitas that rival the traditional slow-cooked version. Experiment with different flavors and variations to customize your carnitas and make them a versatile and delicious meal for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with variations, your Instant Pot carnitas are sure to be a hit.

FAQS

Can I Use Any Type Of Meat For Making Carnitas In An Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use pork shoulder, pork loin, or pork tenderloin for your carnitas. Just make sure the cut of meat is roughly 2 pounds.

How Long Does It Take To Make Carnitas In An Instant Pot?

It takes about an hour and a half including prep time and the time it takes for the instant pot to come to pressure.

What Spices Should I Use For Seasoning My Carnitas?

You can use a combination of cumin, oregano, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt. You can also add in some orange or lime juice for extra flavor.

Can I Make Carnitas Ahead Of Time And Reheat In The Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make the carnitas ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the instant pot for a few minutes.

Can I Use A Slow Cooker Instead Of An Instant Pot For Making Carnitas?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker but the cooking time will be longer (around 6-8 hours on low) compared to the instant pot. Also, the meat may not be as crispy as when using an instant pot.