Description
Flavor-packed carnitas tacos featuring citrus-braised beef shoulder crisped to perfection. Ideal for weeknight dinners or taco parties, with versatile toppings to match.
Ingredients
4–5 lbs beef shoulder, cut into large chunks
1 tbsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 onion, quartered
1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best results)
1 cup water
2 tbsp lard or neutral oil
Corn tortillas, warmed
Toppings: pickled onions, fresh cilantro, diced white onion, salsa verde, lime wedges
Instructions
1. In a large Dutch oven, combine all ingredients except tortillas and finishing oil. Bring to a low boil over medium heat.
2. Lower the heat and cover. Simmer for 1.5 hours until beef is fork-tender.
3. Uncover and raise the heat to medium-high to reduce liquid.
4. Once the beef begins to crisp at the edges, stir frequently. Add the oil and sear the meat in the pan for golden bits. Don’t skip this—it’s where the magic happens.
5. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame until soft and lightly charred.
6. Build your tacos with carnitas, onions, cilantro, and any preferred toppings.
7. Serve with lime wedges and optional sides like refried beans or a simple sheet pan fajita medley.
8. Pro tip: For extra browning, broil the beef for 5 minutes after braising.
Notes
Substitute orange juice with pineapple juice if needed.
No lard? Use avocado oil instead.
Add a chopped jalapeño to the braise for extra heat.
Toppings like cotija cheese, roasted pineapple, or chipotle salsa can elevate flavor.
Pair with sides like elote, black bean salad, or watermelon with tajín.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Braising, Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Carnitas, Tacos, Pork, Street Food, Crispy