If you’re searching for the ultimate recipe to impress friends, feed a crowd, or simply satisfy your own craving for something deeply savory with a kick of bright citrus, Stovetop Citrus Carnitas is your answer. This dish delivers melt-in-your-mouth pork that’s been slow-simmered with zesty orange and lime, layered with aromatic spices, and finished to crispy, caramelized perfection right on your stovetop. Whether you tuck it into warm tortillas, sprinkle it on nachos, or pile it into a rice bowl, these carnitas offer a brilliant balance of rich, tender pork and lively flavors in every single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Stovetop Citrus Carnitas so irresistible is the simple lineup of quality ingredients—each one lending its unique personality to the dish. From juicy pork shoulder to fresh citrus and bold seasonings, every step is about building big flavor and just the right texture.
- Pork Shoulder: Select a 3-pound boneless cut, ideally well-marbled, as the slow cooking renders it unbelievably tender and moist.
- Vegetable Oil: Just a tablespoon is perfect for searing the pork, ensuring that irresistible golden crust.
- Orange Juice: One cup (about 2 oranges) infuses sweet brightness and essential citrus notes throughout the meat.
- Lime Juice: A quarter cup of fresh lime juice (about 2 limes) adds the tangy punch that makes these carnitas truly unforgettable.
- Chicken Broth: This brings moisture and a savory depth to the cooking liquid as the pork simmers.
- Onion: A large chopped onion caramelizes down, adding sweetness and a hearty flavor base.
- Garlic: Four minced cloves give a gentle aromatic kick that’s iconic in carnitas.
- Ground Cumin: A teaspoon delivers earthy warmth that ties together the citrus and pork.
- Dried Oregano: This classic Mexican herb provides savory flavor with a subtle peppery note.
- Smoked Paprika: For a hint of smokiness that lifts the whole dish—don’t skip it!
- Bay Leaves: Two leaves simmered in lend depth and a subtle herbal quality.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously to bring all these flavors into perfect harmony.
- Fresh Cilantro: For garnish, it adds a splash of color and a fragrant finish right before serving.
How to Make Stovetop Citrus Carnitas
Step 1: Season and Sear the Pork
The key to developing an incredible foundation of flavor for Stovetop Citrus Carnitas starts right here. Generously season your pork chunks with salt and pepper on all sides, then heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or sturdy pot over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the pork until each piece is deeply browned and a flavorful crust forms, about 3–4 minutes per side. Don’t rush this step—the caramelization really enhances the taste and sets the stage for those beautiful crispy bits later on.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
With the pork set aside for a moment, it’s time let the aromatics shine. In the same pot (don’t wipe it clean—you want every bit of those browned pork drippings), toss in your chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and golden. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just a minute longer, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aroma.
Step 3: Add Citrus, Broth, and Spices
Return all of the seared pork (and any juices that collected) right back to the pot. Pour in the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth, then sprinkle over the cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and tuck in those bay leaves. Stir gently to combine—it’s starting to look and smell like something special already!
Step 4: Simmer Low and Slow
Bring everything up to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the pork bathe in those bright, spiced juices for 2 to 2 and a half hours, until it becomes incredibly fork-tender. This cozy slow simmer is where the magic happens, infusing every bite with vibrant flavor.
Step 5: Crisp and Caramelize
Once the pork is meltingly soft, it’s time for the showstopping finish. Remove the lid and boost the heat to medium-high. As the liquid reduces and cooks off, you’ll see the pork begin to sizzle in its own rendered fat. Shred the pork straight in the pot with two forks, stirring occasionally so the edges crisp up and take on a deep, golden hue—this is what makes Stovetop Citrus Carnitas absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Stovetop Citrus Carnitas
Garnishes
Pile your piping-hot carnitas onto a platter and don’t hold back when it comes to garnishes. A shower of chopped fresh cilantro brightens every bite, while thin-sliced jalapeños, quick-pickled red onions, or creamy avocado slices all enhance the dish’s citrusy richness. A wedge of lime on the side is always a welcome touch for that extra spritz of freshness.
Side Dishes
Stovetop Citrus Carnitas truly shine when paired with vibrant sides. Classic choices like warm corn or flour tortillas, fluffy Mexican rice, or zesty black beans make for an authentic spread. Or try a fresh corn salad or crunchy cabbage slaw to bring contrast and color to your table.
Creative Ways to Present
The beauty of Stovetop Citrus Carnitas lies in its versatility. Besides stuffing tacos, pile it high on nachos with melty cheese and toppings, fill burritos for a grab-and-go meal, create nourishing rice bowls, or even make indulgent sliders. Don’t be afraid to get creative—this pork loves to play a starring role in just about any crowd-pleaser you can imagine!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any extra Stovetop Citrus Carnitas can be stashed in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors develop beautifully as they sit, making leftovers taste just as exciting (if not more) than the first time around.
Freezing
If you want to stretch the goodness even further, freeze cooled carnitas portions in resealable freezer bags or containers. They’ll keep their fabulous taste and texture for up to two months—just be sure to press out excess air before sealing to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating
To recapture those signature crispy edges, reheat Stovetop Citrus Carnitas in a skillet over medium-high heat with a drop of oil. Stir occasionally until hot and sizzling. You can also microwave leftovers for convenience, but for best results and texture, use the stovetop method.
FAQs
Can I make Stovetop Citrus Carnitas with a different cut of pork?
While pork shoulder is the classic choice for its marbling and tenderness, you can use pork butt or even country-style ribs. Just ensure the cut has enough fat to stay juicy during the long simmer.
Do I really have to use both orange and lime juice?
Using both is highly recommended—the orange brings natural sweetness while the lime offers a bright, tangy punch. Together they’re what give Stovetop Citrus Carnitas its signature citrus pop, but in a pinch, you could use all orange or all lime, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Is it possible to double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! You can easily scale up the ingredients as long as you have a pot large enough. Be sure not to overcrowd while searing the pork, and extend the simmer time if needed for larger quantities.
How do I make Stovetop Citrus Carnitas gluten-free?
The great news is this recipe is naturally gluten-free—there’s no flour or wheat. Just pair with your favorite gluten-free tortillas or serve over rice for a hearty bowl.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
Yes! Stovetop Citrus Carnitas are a dream for make-ahead entertaining. Prepare a day in advance, refrigerate, and just crisp them up on the stovetop before serving so your guests get the irresistible texture and fresh flavor.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you’ll give Stovetop Citrus Carnitas a try. It’s a dish that never fails to bring smiles, fill the kitchen with the best aromas, and invite everyone to gather around for seconds. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of simmering time, you’re in for a flavor-packed feast you’ll want to make over and over again!
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Stovetop Citrus Carnitas Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Stovetop Citrus Carnitas are a delicious and flavorful Mexican dish made with tender, juicy pork that is cooked to perfection in a citrus-infused broth. Perfect for tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or nachos, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Pork:
- 3 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Broth:
- 1 cup orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 cup chicken broth
Seasonings:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 bay leaves
Additional:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Pork: Generously season the pork chunks with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Pork: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot, sear the pork until browned, then set aside.
- Cook Aromatics: Cook onion until softened, then add garlic.
- Add Ingredients: Return pork to pot, add juices, broth, seasonings, and bay leaves.
- Simmer: Cover and simmer for 2-2 1/2 hours until pork is tender.
- Crisp Pork: Uncover, increase heat, cook until pork caramelizes.
- Shred and Serve: Shred pork, crisping edges, and garnish with cilantro.
Notes
- Perfect for tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or nachos.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
