Discover the Ultimate Carnitas Pizza Recipe

Imagine the rich, savory flavor of traditional Mexican carnitas melding perfectly with the gooey goodness of an Italian classic, pizza. This fusion dish offers a unique and flavorful twist that's sure to be a hit at your next dinner gathering. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this guide will walk you through the steps to create a mouthwatering Carnitas Pizza that family and friends will love.

List of Ingredients

For the Carnitas

• 2 lbs pork shoulder (boneless)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup chicken broth

For the Pizza Dough

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar

For the Pizza Assembly

• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pickled red onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Carnitas

1. Season the Pork:

• Rub the pork shoulder with olive oil, salt, pepper, ground cumin, chili powder, and oregano.

2. Cook the Pork:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
• Pour in the orange juice and chicken broth, then bring to a simmer.
• Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

3. Shred the Pork:

• Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks.
• Return the shredded pork to the pot and mix it with the cooking juices.

Making the Pizza Dough from Scratch

1. Activate the Yeast:

• In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water and sprinkle the yeast on top. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Mix the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
• Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
• Stir until the dough begins to form, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

3. Rise the Dough:

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Assembling the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C), and if you have one, place a pizza stone inside to heat up.

2. Roll Out the Dough:

• Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal pieces.
• Roll out each piece on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

3. Layer the Toppings:

• Spread a layer of pizza sauce over the dough.
• Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Top with the prepared carnitas, pickled red onions, and chopped cilantro.

Baking the Pizza

1. Bake the Pizza:

• Carefully transfer the assembled pizza to the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish:
• Before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over the pizza for an added burst of flavor.
• Additional toppings like sliced avocado or jalapeños can enhance the taste and presentation.
• Pairing:
• Serve with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole.
• A crisp, cold beer or a refreshing margarita can complement the rich flavors of the Carnitas Pizza.

Enjoy your homemade Carnitas Pizza and impress your guests with this delightful fusion dish! If you love this recipe and want to explore more unique culinary creations, book a session with our culinary experts for personalized tips and tricks. Happy cooking!