How to Marinate Carnitas

In Spanish, "carnitas" translates to "little meats." Traditional carnitas use fattier cuts of pork like the shoulder, which are slow cooked, then fried in lard with seasonings. Marinating carnitas in tasty Mexican spices prior to cooking helps to season and tenderize the meat. Carnitas is a Mexican dish that can be served on it's own, or as a filling in tacos, tamales and other dishes.

Things You'll Need

  • Vegetable,canola or other mild tasting oil
  • Citrus juice
  • Herbs and spices
  • Medium-sized mixing bowl
  • Wire whisk
  • Gallon-sized freezer bag
  • Pork shoulder, cut into 1/2 inch cubes

Instructions

  1. Combine the oil, citrus juice, and your choice of seasonings in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add ingredients a little bit at a time, using a wire whisk to mix the marinade together. Taste the marinade as you go, making sure that it is flavorful and well-balanced. In general, add oil and citrus juice in equal parts, about 1/2 cup per pound of meat.

  2. Pour the marinade carefully into a gallon-sized freezer bag. Add the pork pieces to the bag. Seal the bag tightly, removing as much air as possible.

  3. Squish the meat and marinade around, turning the bag a few times to ensure the meat is thoroughly covered. Place the bag in the refrigerator and allow the pork to marinate at least 4 hours, or overnight.

  4. Remove the bag from the refrigerator. Take the meat out of the marinade and discard the remaining marinade. Cook the marinated meat in your favorite carnitas recipe.