Slow Cooked Pork Carnitas

Ingredients:

  • 3-pound pork shoulder or 2 pork tenderloins for a leaner cut.
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil.
  • 1 large onion, chopped.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced.
  • ¼ cup lime juice.
  • ½ cup orange juice.
  • 1 tablespoon cumin.
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6-8 cups water (enough to cover the meat in the pot) or chicken broth for a deeper flavor.

Start by seasoning all sides of the pork with salt and pepper.  In a large pot on the stove top heat the avocado oil until hot.  Add the pork and sear on all sides until browned.  Remove from the pot and set aside. 

To the same pot add another tablespoon of avocado oil if needed then add the chopped onions.  Cook the onions for 3-4 minutes until they begin to turn translucent then mix in the garlic. 

Return the pork back into the pot and add the water, lime juice, orange juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika and dried oregano.  Make sure the liquid is just covering the pork.  Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer for 3 ½ to 4 hours turning once or twice until the pork is fork tender.

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