Authentic Carnitas Tacos with Salsa

Introduction

Carnitas tacos are a beloved Mexican dish known for their flavorful and tender pork filling. Paired with fresh salsa, these tacos are a delicious and satisfying meal that can transport your taste buds to the streets of Mexico. In this recipe, we will guide you through creating authentic carnitas tacos with a zesty salsa that will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into chunks
– 1 onion, quartered
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Corn tortillas
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving

For the Salsa:
– 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chunks and sear on all sides until browned.

2. Add the quartered onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pork. Pour enough water to cover the meat.

3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 2 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreds.

4. While the pork is cooking, prepare the salsa by mixing the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let it sit for flavors to meld.

5. Once the pork is tender, increase the heat to medium-high to crisp up the meat. Shred the pork with a fork as it crisps.

6. Warm the corn tortillas on a skillet. Place a generous amount of carnitas on each tortilla, top with salsa, and garnish with chopped cilantro.

7. Serve the carnitas tacos with salsa on the side and lime wedges for squeezing. Enjoy your authentic and flavorful Mexican meal!

FAQs About Authentic Carnitas Tacos with Salsa

What are Carnitas Tacos?

Carnitas Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish consisting of succulent, slow-cooked pork, typically seasoned with herbs and spices like cumin, oregano, and citrus juices. The pork is often crisped up after cooking for added texture.

How can I make Authentic Carnitas Tacos at Home?

To make Authentic Carnitas Tacos at home, start by braising pork shoulder in a flavorful mixture of spices, onions, and citrus. Once the pork is tender, shred it and crisp it up in a pan. Serve the carnitas in warm corn tortillas with toppings like salsa, cilantro, and onions.

What is Salsa in the context of Carnitas Tacos?

In the context of Carnitas Tacos, salsa refers to a flavorful accompaniment made from a mixture of tomatoes, onions, peppers, cilantro, and lime juice. Salsa can vary in spiciness and consistency, adding a fresh and tangy kick to the rich flavors of the carnitas.

How can I make Homemade Salsa for my Carnitas Tacos?

For Homemade Salsa, chop fresh tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and mix them together with lime juice and salt. You can also customize your salsa by