Bold & Smoky Copycat Carnitas Street Tacos

Allergens

Wheat (in tortillas)

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1 cup lime juice
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 24 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pickled onions
• 1 jalapeno, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, white vinegar, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut into 1 inch cubes. Place in a large Ziploc bag or non reactive container, and pour the marinade over the pork. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Drain the marinated pork, reserving the marinade, and spread it out on a parchment lined baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Shred the pork using two forks and return it to the roasting pan. Pour the reserved marinade over the shredded pork and stir well to combine. Return the pan to the oven for an additional 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Warm corn tortillas in a dry skillet or on a griddle until slightly charred.
6. Assemble tacos by layering shredded pork, lettuce, cilantro, cotija cheese, pickled onions, and jalapeno slices (if using) onto the warmed tortillas. Serve immediately.

Chef’s Insight

For added heat, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade or serve with a side of salsa.

Notes

For a truly immersive experience, serve these tacos at your next gathering with a side of Mexican street corn and a cold refreshing beverage.