Air Fryer Crispy Pork Carnitas are tender, flavorful shredded pork with irresistibly crispy edges. Garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, these carnitas are perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls.
Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
For garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
For serving:
- Warm corn tortillas
- Sliced onions
- Fresh salsa
Preparation Instructions:
- Prepare the pork:
- In a large bowl, toss the pork chunks with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the pork is evenly coated with the spices.
- Cook in the air fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pork chunks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Shred and crisp the pork:
- Remove the cooked pork and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded pork to the air fryer basket, drizzle with orange juice and lime juice, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until crispy.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve hot with corn tortillas, sliced onions, and salsa.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 25-27 minutes
- Total time: 37 minutes
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
Key Notes
- Add jalapeños for extra heat or pineapple chunks for a sweet touch.
- Use the carnitas for tacos, nachos, or rice bowls.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F.
Enjoy the deliciously crispy and flavorful “Air Fryer Crispy Pork Carnitas,” perfect for taco nights or any gathering! 😊