Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/12 checked
6
servings
1.5 lbs

pork shoulder

cubed

0.25 cup

water

1 unit

onion

diced

1 unit

carrot

diced

1 tsp

chili powder

0.5 tsp

dried oregano

1 tsp

minced garlic

1 tsp

salt

to taste

4 cup

water

12 unit

corn tortillas

1.5 lbs

monterey jack cheese

grated

1 unit

red enchilada sauce

Step 1
~7 min

Cut the pork shoulder into 1 1/2" cubes.

Step 2
~7 min

Place the pork in a large saucepan with 1/4 cup water.

Step 3
~7 min

Cook uncovered until the liquid evaporates and the drippings are very brown, stirring frequently.

Step 4
~7 min

Add the diced onion, diced carrot, chili powder, dried oregano, minced garlic, and salt to the pork.

Step 5
~7 min

Pour in 4 cups of water.

Step 6
~7 min

Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 7
~7 min

Cover the saucepan, reduce heat, and simmer for 60 minutes.

Step 8
~7 min

Remove the lid, increase the heat to high, and cook until the liquid evaporates, stirring often.

Step 9
~7 min

Let the meat mixture cool slightly.

Step 10
~7 min

Shred the cooled pork mixture.

Step 11
~7 min

Lightly fry the corn tortillas in oil on each side until soft.

Step 12
~7 min

Fill each tortilla with shredded meat and grated Monterey Jack cheese.

Step 13
~7 min

Roll the filled tortillas and place them seam-side down in a greased 9 x 13" pan.

Step 14
~7 min

Top the enchiladas with red enchilada sauce and any remaining cheese.

Step 15
~7 min

Bake in a preheated 400F oven for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 16
~7 min

Remove from the oven.

Step 17
~7 min

Optional: Sprinkle with lettuce, diced tomato, sliced black olives, and a dab of sour cream.

Step 18
~7 min

Serve immediately.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For extra flavor, add a bay leaf to the braising liquid.

Use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

Warm the tortillas before frying to prevent them from cracking.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

20 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Carnitas can be made a day ahead.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
High
Noise Level
Medium
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with rice and beans.

Add a side of guacamole and salsa.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Mexican rice
Refried beans
Guacamole
Salsa

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Mexico

Cultural Significance

Popular dish in Mexican cuisine, often served at celebrations.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Fiestas
Cinco de Mayo

Occasion Tags

Dinner party
Family gathering
Casual dinner

Popularity Score

70/100

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