Low Carb Authentic Mexican Carnitas

Transform your kitchen into a taqueria with this mouthwatering recipe for Low Carb Authentic Mexican Carnitas! Perfectly seasoned chunks of tender pork shoulder are slow-cooked with fragrant spices, fresh orange and lime juice, and simmered to juicy perfection before being crisped to golden, caramelized glory in their own rendered fat. This keto-friendly version of a Mexican classic skips the carbs but delivers all the rich, smoky flavors you crave. Ideal for lettuce wraps, low-carb tortillas, or salads, these carnitas are versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Whether you're meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this slow-cooked, crispy pork is a must-try!

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:240 mins

Total Time:255 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 pounds Pork shoulder (boneless)
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 teaspoons Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder
• 2 leaves Bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons Lard or ghee
• 1 medium Orange (juice only)
• 1 medium Lime (juice only)

Directions

Step 1

Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks, around 2 inches each, to allow for even cooking and flavor absorption.

Step 2

In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 3

Rub the pork pieces thoroughly with the spice mixture, ensuring all sides are coated.

Step 4

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the lard or ghee over medium-high heat until melted and hot.

Step 5

Add the pork chunks to the pot in a single layer, browning them on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Work in batches if needed, avoiding overcrowding the pot.

Step 6

Once all pork is browned, return all pieces to the pot and add the bay leaves, orange juice, and lime juice.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook the pork slowly for 3 hours, turning the meat occasionally. This slow cooking will help tenderize the pork.

Step 8

After 3 hours, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium to medium-high. Let the pork cook for an additional 1 hour, stirring occasionally to allow the juices to evaporate and meat to start frying in its own fat, becoming crispy.

Step 9

Once desired crispiness is achieved, remove from heat. Discard the bay leaves and shred the pork with two forks.

Step 10

Serve the carnitas with low carb options such as lettuce wraps or over a salad. They can also be used as a filling for tacos using low-carb tortillas.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1637.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3567.7

Total Fat 274.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 95.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 952.5mg	0%
Sodium 5552.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 37.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.5g	0%
Total Sugars 21.2g
Protein 248.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 254.5mg	0%
Iron 20.4mg	0%
Potassium 4403.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 68.3%

Protein: 27.6%

Carbs: 4.1%