Can You Really Use Pork Roast For Carnitas? This Chef Says Yes!

Carnitas, a staple of Mexican cuisine, is renowned for its tender, flavorful pork. Traditionally made with pork shoulder, many home cooks wonder: can you use pork roast for carnitas? The answer is a resounding yes! While both pork shoulder and pork roast come from the same section of the pig, they offer unique characteristics that can enhance the carnitas experience.

Pork Shoulder vs. Pork Roast

Pork Shoulder (Pork Butt)

• Tougher cut with more connective tissue
• Requires longer cooking time to break down the fibers
• Yields more marbling and fat content, resulting in a richer flavor

Pork Roast (Pork Loin)

• Leaner cut with less connective tissue
• Cooks faster due to its lower fat content
• Provides a more delicate flavor profile

Advantages of Using Pork Roast for Carnitas

Faster Cooking Time: Pork roast cooks significantly faster than pork shoulder, making it a more convenient option for busy cooks.

Leaner Option: For those seeking a healthier alternative, pork roast offers a leaner choice with less fat content.

Delicate Flavor: Pork roast imparts a more subtle and refined flavor to carnitas, allowing other seasonings and spices to shine through.

Disadvantages of Using Pork Roast for Carnitas

Less Tender: Pork roast naturally contains less connective tissue, so it may not achieve the same level of tenderness as pork shoulder.

Less Marbling: The lower fat content of pork roast can result in a slightly drier carnitas.

Tips for Using Pork Roast for Carnitas

• Choose a well-marbled pork roast: Look for roasts with some visible fat marbling to enhance flavor and tenderness.
• Braising is key: Braising the pork roast in a flavorful liquid helps break down the fibers and tenderize the meat.
• Add extra fat: If desired, add some chopped pork fat or lard to the braising liquid to increase moisture and richness.
• Season generously: Season the pork roast liberally with a blend of spices, such as cumin, oregano, chili powder, and paprika.
• Cook until tender: The pork roast should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and easily shreds.

Recipe for Carnitas Using Pork Roast

Ingredients:

• 3-pound pork roast
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons cumin
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the pork roast on all sides.
2. Add the onion, garlic, orange juice, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender.
4. Remove the pork from the pot and shred it.
5. Return the shredded pork to the pot and continue cooking for 30-60 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the pork is caramelized.
6. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as tortillas, rice, beans, and salsa.

Variations

• Slow Cooker Carnitas: Place the pork roast, seasonings, and liquid in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Oven-Roasted Carnitas: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Season the pork roast and place it on a roasting rack in a baking dish. Roast for 3-4 hours, or until tender.
• Crispy Carnitas: After braising the pork, place it on a baking sheet and broil for 5-10 minutes, or until crispy.

Finishing Touches

• Shredding: Carnitas are traditionally shredded for easy consumption.
• Toppings: Serve carnitas with a variety of toppings, such as diced onion, cilantro, shredded cabbage, salsa, and sour cream.
• Storage: Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

The Verdict: Can You Use Pork Roast for Carnitas?

Absolutely! Pork roast is a viable and delicious alternative to pork shoulder for making carnitas. While it may not achieve the same level of tenderness as pork shoulder, its faster cooking time, leaner profile, and delicate flavor make it a worthwhile option for those seeking a convenient and flavorful carnitas experience.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use any type of pork roast for carnitas?
A: Yes, but choose a well-marbled roast for best results.

Q: How can I make my carnitas more tender?
A: Braising the pork roast in a flavorful liquid for an extended period helps break down the fibers and tenderize the meat.

Q: Can I freeze carnitas?
A: Yes, shredded carnitas can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.