Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs (1.36 kg) pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch (5 cm) cubes
  • 1 orange, quartered
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) dried oregano
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup (10g) finely chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup (75g) finely chopped white onion
  • 1-2 tbsp (30ml) lime juice, or to taste
  • Pinch of salt
  • 20-25 small corn tortillas (about 4-inch diameter)
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Optional toppings: Salsa verde, pickled onions, radish slices

Instructions:

  1. Season the pork cubes generously with salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, and cinnamon.
  2. Heat a little oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork in batches until browned on all sides. Remove pork and set aside.
  3. Return the pork to the Dutch oven. Add the orange quarters, onion quarters, garlic cloves, bay leaves, and water. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Cover the Dutch oven and transfer to a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork. Alternatively, simmer on the stovetop over very low heat.
  5. Remove the pork from the Dutch oven, reserving the braising liquid. Shred the pork with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the Dutch oven with a little of the braising liquid (just enough to moisten it). Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is crispy around the edges. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Alternatively, crisp the pork in a skillet with a little oil over medium-high heat.
  6. In a small bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, onion, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
  7. Warm the corn tortillas in a tortilla warmer, in a dry skillet, or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave.
  8. Fill each tortilla with the crispy carnitas, top with the cilantro-onion relish, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings and side dishes.