Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

Instant Pot Pork Carnitas are amazing. They are so easy to make with the help of the Instant Pot.

My kids absolutely loved these; they are a quick and absolutely delicious meal served in minutes. So much better and healthier than the local Mexican restaurant, but with all of the flavors and the toppings, you create a fast and healthy meal for your family. Amazing!

Today I used a simple pork shoulder for the meat, which is a great meat to use, I used to make the same recipe in my slow cooker, but now instead of hours, I make it in minute. Love this!

What is Instant Pot Pork Carnitas?

If you are not familiar with Pork Carnitas it is typically made by using the pork shoulder. Carnitas is usually slow-roasted seasoned pork that has been slow-cooked, until tender, and then the pork should is shredded.

It is really just the Mexican word for pulled pork, so it comes out really tender and flavorful with any Instant Pot pulled pork. Today, I used a variation of spices and got a really flavorful meal.

How to make Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

• Best Pork Cut for Pork Carnitas – The most flavorful cut of meat for carnitas is the pork shoulder or pork butt. For the Instant Pot, we usually use boneless and skinless, as it needs to be seasoned and seared before pressure cooking.
• Carnitas seasoning – The typical pork carnitas seasons were used in this recipe including, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Flavor for cooking – The best thing to use is a combination of liquids, which will help you get the best flavor out of the meat.
• Pressure Cooked until the pork is pull-apart tender and is bursting with flavor.
• Seared-searing, the sides of the meat, are the best thing to get all of the pork’s flavors out before Pressure Cooking.

How to make Instant Pot Carnitas

Ingredients:

• Boneless Pork Shoulder
• Olive Oil
• Garlic Salt
• Ground Cumin
• Dried Oregano
• Brown Sugar
• Dried Basil
• Ground Coriander
• Chili Powder
• Paprika
• Lime Juice
• Orange Juice
• Water

Simple Directions:

• Cut the pork shoulder so it will fit into the Instant Pot.
• In a small bowl, mix the spices: garlic salt, chili powder, oregano, basil, cumin, ground coriander, paprika, and brown sugar.
• Then rub the spice mixture over the pork.
• Sear your meat: add the olive oil to the Instant Pot, and then press saute, sear all of the sides of the pork.
• Add the orange juice, lime juice, water, and place your lid on the Instant Pot.
• Turn the valve to sealing.
• Set the manual high pressure for 40 minutes. When the time is up, do a natural release.
• Remove the meat from the Instant Pot, using two forks, shred the meat. If you want to roast the meat further, broil the meat for about 3-5 minutes.
• Plate, serve, and enjoy!

 

Why Do You Sear The Pork Shoulder First?

When I spent a few extra minutes searing the pork shoulder, I noticed that it had tons and tons of flavor.

Searing the meat gives an extra layer of flavor to the carnitas. For making the Instant Pot Pork Canarias in the Instant Pot, you can sear the meat directly in the pan.

Can I Use A Bone-In Pork Roast?

A bone-in will work great in this recipe. The major problem will be finding a roast that will fit inside your Instant Pot bowl.

The Instant Pot comes in several sizes, so measure the interior of your bowl before you purchase your roast. But if you need to cut it to fit, that is a great solution.

How Do You Reheat Instant Pot Pork Carnitas?

To reheat heat, either place your meat into a skillet or microwave it. I usually add some seasonings, and a few tablespoons of water,  then mix it so that the meat does not dry out.

Remember to mix it as you heat it, frequently, so it doesn’t dry out, or you might overcook it. It’s best to heat it slowly and stir (especially if you are using the microwave). I usually reheat mine in 30-second intervals.

Can You Freeze Instant Pot Pork Carnitas?

Yes, this is a great make-ahead meal.

To freeze, let the pulled pork cool to room temperature and then place it in an airtight container and then place the container into the freezer. It will last about 1 to 2 months.

To use from the freezer, place the frozen pulled pork into the refrigerator and let thaw, usually one day.

How To Make Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Ahead Of Time

This is a great meal to make ahead of time. Make it per the directions, and then either place it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This should last about two to three days.

This is a great meal to make and keep for the busy week ahead.

Tips For The Best Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

• Season your meat well before adding it to the Instant Pot. You can use any seasonings, but I used traditional Pork Carnitas spices.
• Purchase great taco shells, either soft or hard, work well with this recipe.

What To Serve With Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

This makes a great meal, and if you have an air fryer, you can prepare the entire dinner without the help of the stove:

Here are some of my favorites.

• Loaded Air Fryer French Fries
• Air Fryer Tater Tots
• Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

SOME HELPFUL PRODUCTS USED IN MAKING THIS RECIPE-

ForkToSpoon.com may earn a small commission via affiliate links in this post. Please read our full disclosure policy here.

Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Sterilizer, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Saute, Yogurt Maker, and Warmer, 6 Quart, 14 One-Touch Programs

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