Trader Joe’s Carnitas are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. These slow-cooked, tender pork carnitas can be served in tacos, burritos, or simply over rice. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious, authentic Mexican meal at home.
Ingredients for Trader Joe’s Carnitas Recipe
- ½ Yellow Onion
- 1 Can of Green Jackfruit (drained and de-seeded)
- ½ Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Organic Oregano
- 1 tsp Nutritional Yeast
- ½ tsp Sea Salt
- 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 ½ Tbsp Coconut Aminos (You can use Trader Joe’s if available)
- 1 Orange (for juice and zest)
- 1 Lime (for juice and zest)
Equipment & Tools Required
- Cutting board and knife
- A medium-sized pan
- Measuring spoons
- A spatula
- A small bowl
Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Check another recipe Thin Cut Pork Chop Recipe
How to Make Trader Joe’s Carnitas Step by Step
1. Prepare the Pork: Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks, about 2-3 inches each.
2. Season the Pork: Season the pork chunks generously with salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
3. Brown the Pork: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Brown the pork chunks on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Transfer the browned pork to a slow cooker.
4. Add Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer the onions and garlic to the slow cooker with the pork.
5. Add Liquids: Pour the chicken broth and orange juice over the pork in the slow cooker. The liquid should cover the pork about halfway.
6. Cook the Carnitas: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
7. Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the juices.
8. Optional Crisping: For crispy carnitas, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for a few minutes until the edges are crispy.
9. Serve: Serve the carnitas on Trader Joe’s Carnitas tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Trader Joe’s carnitas!
Watch How to Make Trader Joe’s Carnitas Recipe
Serving Ideas for Trader Joe’s Carnitas Recipe
1. Tacos:
- Warm up some corn or flour tortillas.
- Fill with shredded carnitas, and top with diced onions, chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a drizzle of salsa or hot sauce.
2. Burritos:
- Use a large flour tortilla.
- Fill with carnitas, rice, beans, cheese, guacamole, and your favorite salsa.
- Wrap it up and enjoy!
3. Burrito Bowls:
- Layer rice, beans, shredded lettuce, and carnitas in a bowl.
- Top with guacamole, salsa, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
4. Nachos:
- Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
- Top with shredded carnitas, black beans, and cheese.
- Bake until the cheese is melted.
- Finish with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole.
5. Quesadillas:
- Place a tortilla in a heated skillet.
- Add a layer of cheese and shredded carnitas.
- Top with another tortilla and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown.
- Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.
6. Salad:
- Toss mixed greens with your favorite vegetables.
- Top with shredded carnitas and a dollop of guacamole or a vinaigrette dressing.
7. Tostadas:
- Spread refried beans on a crispy tostada shell.
- Top with carnitas, shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream.
8. Sandwiches:
- Use a soft roll or bun.
- Fill with shredded carnitas, pickled onions, and a tangy coleslaw for a delicious sandwich.
Tips for Trader Joe’s Carnitas Recipe
Browning the Meat: For extra flavor, you can brown the carnitas in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker or Instant Pot. This will give the meat a nice caramelized crust.
Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste.
Moisture: If the carnitas seem dry after cooking, you can add a bit more chicken broth or some of the cooking liquid to keep them moist.
Crispy Carnitas: For crispy edges, spread the shredded carnitas on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until the edges are browned and crispy.
Leftovers: Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet with a bit of oil or in the microwave.
Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
Serving Bar: Set up a carnitas serving bar with various toppings and sides, allowing everyone to customize their tacos, bowls, or nachos. This is perfect for gatherings or family meals.
Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the pan.
- Sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker.
Add Carnitas and Spices:
- Place the Trader Joe’s Carnitas on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker.
- Add 1 cup of chicken broth.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the carnitas.
FAQs about Trader Joe’s Carnitas Recipe
1. Can I make Trader Joe’s Carnitas in the oven instead of a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), place the carnitas in a baking dish with the other ingredients, cover with foil, and bake for 3-4 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
2. How do I store leftover carnitas?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the carnitas for up to 3 months.
3. How can I reheat leftover carnitas?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave.
4. Can I make Trader Joe’s Carnitas ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day or two ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
5. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can use beef broth, vegetable broth, or water with a bit of extra seasoning.
6. How do I make the carnitas crispy?
After cooking and shredding the carnitas, spread them on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for a few minutes until the edges are crispy.
7. What sides go well with carnitas?
Rice, beans, grilled vegetables, salad, coleslaw, or Mexican street corn (elote) are great options.
8. Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or beef for a different take on carnitas. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
9. Are Trader Joe’s Carnitas gluten-free?
Check the packaging for specific dietary information, but generally, carnitas should be gluten-free.
10. Can I add other ingredients to the carnitas?
Yes, feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers, jalapeños, or tomatoes for additional flavor. You can also experiment with different spices.
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