Carnitas

Carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish originating from the state of Michoacán, featuring pork that is slow-cooked or braised in its own fat until tender and then often crisped. The classic preparation typically involves pork shoulder (or butt) seasoned with citrus like orange, along with spices such as cumin, oregano, and garlic, resulting in a rich, savory flavor.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Carnitas is a high-protein dish with a significant amount of fat, particularly from the pork shoulder cut, and is generally low in carbohydrates. A typical serving (about 3 ounces) provides roughly 200-250 calories, along with essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	250 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbs	2 g
Fat	16 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	450 mg
Potassium	280 mg
Phosphorus	180 mg
Zinc	3.5 mg
Iron	1.2 mg
Niacin (B3)	5 mg
Vitamin B6	0.4 mg
Vitamin B12	0.8 mcg
Selenium	20 mcg

Per 1 cup (140 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Carnitas is culturally significant in Mexican cuisine as a celebratory dish often served at festivals and family gatherings, showcasing the art of slow-cooking pork to achieve a perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness. Nutritionally, it is unique because the slow-cooking process in lard helps render out excess fat while preserving the meat's juiciness and enhancing its flavor profile.