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Instant Pot carnitas.

Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Carnitas

These Instant Pot carnitas are super tender, juicy, and flavorful! They taste like Mexican pulled pork. The pressure cooker makes this recipe quickly and easily. These carnitas are great for tacos, burritos, sandwiches, and more!
5 from 45 votes

Ingredients

Instructions 

  • First, trim the fat off the pork shoulder. Cut into 2 inch cubes.
  • Place the pork in a large bowl. Add the salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and oregano to the bowl. Toss until the pork is fully coated.
  • Press the sauté button on the Instant Pot. Add in the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add in the pork. Sear on each side for 2 minutes. You may need to do this in two batches. Then, press cancel.
  • Next, add in the garlic cloves, chicken broth, lime juice, and orange juice to the pot. Secure the lid on top.
  • Pressure cook on high for 35 minutes. When the timer goes off, allow a natural release for 10 minutes. Then, carefully move the top valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
  • Turn the oven broil to high. Remove the Instant Pot lid carefully. Use two forks to shred the meat.
  • Transfer the meat and ½ cup of the liquid to a rimmed baking pan. Broil on high for 5 minutes, or until the top of the pork has started to become crispy. Remove the pan from the oven.
  • Finally, garnish with fresh herbs and serve!

Notes

  • Use boneless pork shoulder for the best texture and flavor.  Pork roast also works well.
  • Sear the pork in two batches if needed.
  • If the pork is not fall apart tender, it needs more time to cook.  Simply place the lid back on, seal the lid, and pressure cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • These carnitas freeze and reheat well.
  • Reheat in the oven.  Cook for 5 to 7 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Calories: 365kcal, Carbohydrates: 5g, Protein: 69g, Fat: 13g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 6g, Trans Fat: 0.05g, Cholesterol: 182mg, Sodium: 700mg, Potassium: 1243mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin A: 78IU, Vitamin C: 11mg, Calcium: 55mg, Iron: 4mg