
Carnitas Bowl
About this recipe
Tender, crispy-edged slow-braised pork carnitas served over cilantro-lime rice with black beans, fresh pico de gallo, pickled red onions, and creamy avocado. This gluten-free bowl is a crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner that brings all the flavors of a taqueria right to your table.
Instructions
- 1
In a small mixing bowl, combine cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Pat the pork shoulder chunks dry with paper towel, then rub the spice mixture all over the meat. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over ^[medium-high heat]. Working in batches, sear the pork shoulder on all sides until deep golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer seared pieces to a plate.
- 2
Return all pork shoulder to the Dutch oven. Add the garlic smashed, orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to ^[low], cover, and simmer until the pork shoulder is fall-apart tender, about 2 hours. Remove the lid for the last 20 minutes to let the liquid reduce. Use two dipping forks to shred the pork shoulder directly in the pot, tossing it in the remaining juices. Increase heat to ^[medium-high] and cook uncovered for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges of the pork shoulder get slightly crispy.
- 3
While the carnitas braises, combine rinsed long-grain white rice, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over ^[high heat], then reduce to the lowest setting, cover, and cook for 18 minutes. Remove from heat and let steam, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a dipping fork, then stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- 4
In a small saucepan over ^[medium heat], combine the drained black beans, cumin, and garlic powder with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir and heat for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and fragrant. Season with salt to taste.
- 5
Place the thinly sliced red onion in a small mixing bowl. Add the juice of one lime and a pinch of salt. Toss well and let sit for at least 15 minutes while the carnitas finishes cooking. The onions will turn bright pink and mellow in flavor.
- 6
Divide the cilantro-lime juice rice among four bowls. Top each with a generous scoop of seasoned black beans and a hearty portion of crispy carnitas. Arrange sliced avocado, pickled red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes around the bowl. Finish with a dollop of sour cream, extra cilantro, and hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately.









































