If you're a home cook, health enthusiast, or just a lover of Mexican food, the Carnitas Rice Bowl is a must-try. It's a perfect meal that combines tender, flavorful pork with fresh, vibrant toppings over a bed of perfectly cooked rice. Here's how to make it at home.
Ingredients List
For the Carnitas:
- 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 oranges, juiced
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
For the Rice:
- 2 cups long-grain white or brown rice
- 4 cups water (or chicken broth for added flavor)
- 1 tsp salt
Toppings and Additions:
- Pico de Gallo (fresh tomato salsa)
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños
- Shredded lettuce
- Black beans or pinto beans
Step-by-Step Instructions on Preparing Carnitas
1. Prep the Pork:
Pat the pork shoulder chunks dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, mix the pork with garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
2. Cook the Carnitas:
Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Add the onion quarters, orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
3. Shred and Crisp:
Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. For a crispy texture, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5-10 minutes until the edges are crispy.
Guide on Cooking Perfect Rice
1. Rinse:
Rinse 2 cups of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Cook:
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Add 1 tsp of salt and the rinsed rice. Stir once, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 18-20 minutes for white rice or 40-45 minutes for brown rice, until all the liquid is absorbed.
3. Fluff:
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Assembling the Carnitas Rice Bowl
- Base Layer: Start with a generous scoop of cooked rice, spreading it evenly in your bowl.
- Add Carnitas: Top the rice with a hearty portion of shredded, crispy carnitas.
- Toppings: Add your choice of pico de gallo, sliced avocado or guacamole, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sliced jalapeños, shredded lettuce, and beans.
- Finishing Touch: Squeeze a fresh lime wedge over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional Additions and Customizations
- Cheese: Add shredded cheese for a creamy texture.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can add a cool, tangy contrast.
- Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetable Options: Include sautéed bell peppers, corn, or radishes for added crunch and nutrition.
Tips for Making the Perfect Carnitas Rice Bowl
- Marinade: Marinate the pork overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
- Slow Cooking: If you’re short on time, you can use an Instant Pot to speed up the cooking process.
- Meal Prep: Carnitas and rice can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Balanced Bowl: Aim for a balance of textures and flavors by mixing crunchy, creamy, spicy, and tangy elements.
Enjoy your homemade Carnitas Rice Bowl! Experiment with different toppings and share your creations with us on social media. 🌮🍚
Happy cooking!
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