This Low Carb Citrus Carnitas recipe is one of my favourite ways to cook pork. It’s super flavourful and versatile. It can be eaten as a taco, on top of salad or alongside your favourite vegetables. It would also be great in an omelet.
I am providing the instructions for the traditional stovetop method which is great, but it takes some time. You need to be around the kitchen for a couple of hours.
You’ll also find the instructions for the Instant Pot Version which takes less time. The result is just as delicious!
In both cases, the flavour improves after the pork has sat in the fridge until the next day!
Citrus Carnitas 2 Ways
Ingredients
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 681 gm pork shoulder whole (cut into chunks)
- 1/2 tbsp cumin rounded
- 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp coriander ground
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper this makes it a medium-spicy flavour. Reduce if you don't like spicy food.
- 1 tsp salt and pepper each
- 1/4 cup lime juice fresh
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions
- Place the meat in a zippered bag or covered container.
- Combine remaining ingredients and pour over meat, being sure that all meat is covered.
- Allow to marinate 3o minutes or more. You can skip this step if you don't have time.
- Cooking method 1: Stovetop: Sautee onions for a few minutes in oil. Add pork and marinade in medium pot and add enough water to just cover the pork. Bring to a boil on high heat and then reduce to a simmer, uncovered. Allow to simmer until the liquid evaporates (about 2 hours) and then continue to cook a little longer to allow the meat to caramelize. Carefully turn the meat to allow it to brown on all sides. Shred with forks if you want smaller pieces.
- Cooking method 2: Instant Pot: Sautee onions for a few minutes in oil, in the Instant Pot. Add pork and marinade to Instant Pot and add just enough water to just cover the pork. Seal lid and set to manual pressure high for 35 minutes. Allow to naturally depressurize for about 10 minutes and then manually release the rest of the pressure. Remove the lid and change setting to sautee. Allow to boil until liquid has mostly evaporated, but stir occasionally so it doesn't burn. Shred with forks if you want smaller pieces. Spread meat onto a baking sheet and place under broiler for 5 minutes or so until slightly crispy.
Notes
You might also like: My Favourite Low Carb Pasta and Rice Alternatives or Keto Scalloped ‘Potatoes’ to go along with this Low Carb Citrus Carnitas.