Step by Step Guide: instant pot pork tenderloin carnitas recipe
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Pork tenderloin carnitas is a delicious, versatile dish that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply served with rice and beans.
Using Instant Pot makes the cooking process quick and easy, yielding tender and flavorful meat in no time.
Follow this simple step-by-step guide to prepare your own Instant Pot pork tenderloin carnitas.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the instructions, let’s gather the necessary ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lime, juiced
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Tortillas, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork tenderloin and cutting it into 2-3 large pieces. This will help it cook evenly and absorb flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Pork
Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, sear the pork pieces on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step enhances the flavor of the meat. Remove the pork and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Add the cumin, oregano, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for about 1 minute to release the spices’ flavors.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the chicken broth and lime juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot, which will add depth to your carnitas.
Step 6: Pressure Cook
Return the seared pork to the pot. Lock the lid and ensure the steam release valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Pressure Cook” mode and set it for 30 minutes on high pressure.
Step 7: Natural Release
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 10-15 minutes. After that, you can manually release any remaining pressure.
Step 8: Shred the Pork
Carefully remove the pork tenderloin from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
Step 9: Crisp the Carnitas (Optional)
For an extra layer of flavor and texture, you can crisp up the shredded pork. Spread it on a baking sheet and place it under the broiler for 5-7 minutes until edges are crispy.
Step 10: Serve
Your Instant Pot pork tenderloin carnitas are ready to serve! Fill tortillas with the carnitas, and top with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and any of your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or shredded cheese.
Nutritional Data (Per Serving: Approx. 4 servings)
- Calories:
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
Enjoy your savory, homemade Instant Pot pork tenderloin carnitas! They make for a delicious family meal or a fun gathering with friends.
Selecting the Right Cut of Pork for instant pot pork tenderloin carnitas
When making delicious carnitas, choosing the right cut of pork is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to select the ideal cut for this recipe.
Step 1: Understand the Options
There are several cuts of pork that can be used for carnitas, but the most popular choices are pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) and pork tenderloin.
Step 2: Know Your Recipe Needs
For traditional carnitas with rich flavor and tenderness, pork shoulder is often recommended due to its higher fat content, which results in juicy, flavorful meat. However, for a leaner option with slightly quicker cooking time, pork tenderloin is a great choice.
Step 3: Select the Best Cut
For this Instant Pot carnitas recipe specifically, pork tenderloin is the best choice. While it is leaner compared to shoulder, when prepared correctly, it offers a tender and delicious result.
Step 4: Check the Freshness
When selecting pork tenderloin, look for a cut that is pink in color with minimal discoloration, and ensure the meat is firm to the touch. Avoid any cuts with excessive liquid or an off smell.
Step 5: Ask Your Butcher
If unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for recommendations. They can provide insight on the freshest cuts available and guide you toward the best options for your recipe.
Essential Spices and Aromatics for pork tenderloin carnitas
To elevate the flavor of your Instant Pot pork tenderloin carnitas, here are the top 10 essential spices and aromatics along with their uses:
1. Ground Cumin
- Use: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that is a staple in Mexican cuisine. Use it to enhance the savory profile of the carnitas.
2. Dried Oregano
- Use: Brings a slightly bitter, aromatic character. Opt for Mexican oregano for a more authentic flavor, adding depth to the dish.
3. Chili Powder
- Use: Provides mild heat and a complex flavor. It’s essential for that classic carnitas taste, giving the dish a vibrant color.
4. Smoked Paprika
- Use: Infuses a subtle smokiness that replicates the traditional method of cooking pork over an open flame, enhancing the overall flavor.
5. Salt
- Use: Essential for enhancing all other flavors in the dish. Adjust to taste, but it’s crucial for seasoning the meat properly.
6. Black Pepper
- Use: Adds a sharp, pungent kick that complements the meat’s natural flavors. Freshly cracked black pepper is recommended for the best taste.
7. Garlic
- Use: Offers a strong, aromatic flavor when minced and sautéed. It’s a key player in building the dish’s overall flavor base.
8. Onion
- Use: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed. Chopped onions form the aromatic foundation for the carnitas.
9. Lime Juice
- Use: Brightens the dish with acidity, balancing rich flavors of the pork. It’s added at the end to freshen up the carnitas before serving.
10. Fresh Cilantro
Use: Offers a fresh, herbal note and is perfect for garnishing. It adds color and a refreshing taste that complements the rich carnitas.
Serving Suggestions for pork tenderloin carnitas
1. Tacos
- Example: Soft corn tortillas filled with tender carnitas, topped with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
2. Burritos
- Example: A large flour tortilla filled with carnitas, Mexican rice, beans, cheese, and your choice of salsa, rolled up for a hearty meal.
3. Rice Bowls
- Example: Layered bowls with carnitas over a base of cilantro-lime rice, topped with black beans, avocado, and pico de gallo.
4. Salads
- Example: A fresh salad composed of mixed greens, carnitas, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a drizzle of lime vinaigrette.
5. Nachos
- Example: Crispy tortilla chips topped with carnitas, melted cheese, jalapeños, and served with guacamole and sour cream on the side.
Leftover Ideas and Storage Tips for pork tenderloin carnitas
After enjoying your delicious Instant Pot pork tenderloin carnitas, you may find yourself with some tasty leftovers.
Here are the top five suggestions for storing carnitas safely, along with creative ideas for using those leftovers.
1. Refrigerate for Quick Use
Storage Method: Place the carnitas in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator.
Example: Use them within 3-4 days as a base for quick burrito bowls. Just reheat the meat, add rice, beans, and your favorite toppings.
2. Freeze for Long-Term Storage
Storage Method: Pack the carnitas in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and label it with the date.
Example: Freeze extra servings for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and use them in tacos or nachos for a quick weeknight dinner.
3. Turn into a Casserole
Storage Method: Incorporate leftover carnitas into a casserole dish and cover it with a layer of cheese. Store covered in the fridge or freeze for later.
Example: A carnitas enchilada casserole can be an easy and hearty meal. Assemble it and bake it fresh whenever you’re ready to eat.
4. Create a Flavorful Soup
Storage Method: Combine leftover carnitas with broth and vegetables in a container. Refrigerate or freeze the soup mixture.
Example: After a day or two, turn carnitas into a savory soup. Simply heat, add beans and corn, and garnish with avocado for a delicious meal.
5. Make Breakfast Tacos
Storage Method: Store the carnitas in a container with scrambled eggs, cheese, and vegetables.
Example: In the morning, use your leftovers to make breakfast tacos. Reheat the carnitas with eggs and fill soft tortillas for a satisfying start to your day.
By incorporating these simple storage methods and creative uses for leftover carnitas, you can savor your delicious meal even longer!
