Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Carnitas stuffed peppers, a delightful fusion of tender, flavorful pork and vibrant bell peppers, offer a unique and delicious meal that's sure to impress. Perfect for home cooks seeking a new culinary adventure, this dish combines the rich, savory taste of carnitas with the fresh crunch of bell peppers. Plus, it's simple enough to make on a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
You'll need the following ingredients, which are readily available at your local grocery store:
- For the Carnitas:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder (also called pork butt), cut into chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- For the Stuffed Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite blend)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Carnitas
- Season the Pork: In a large bowl, mix together the cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Add the pork chunks and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
- Sear the Pork: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned pork chunks and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pork and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Slow Cook the Pork: Return the seared pork to the pot. Pour in the orange juice and lime juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the Pork: Once the pork is tender, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the pot and stir to combine with the juices and onions.
Preparing the Peppers
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Bell Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse the peppers under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Assembling and Baking
- Stuff the Peppers: If using, mix the cooked rice with the shredded pork. Fill each bell pepper with the carnitas mixture, packing it in tightly. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the stuffed peppers.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Carnitas Stuffed Peppers hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. They pair perfectly with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve with a side of refried beans or Mexican rice.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delicious, flavorful dish that's sure to become a favorite in your household. Carnitas Stuffed Peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with savory goodness that's hard to resist. Give this recipe a try and share your culinary creation with us! Snap a photo and tag us on social media, or leave a comment with your feedback. Happy cooking!
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