Mexican Carnitas
Mexican Carnitas is a traditional dish from the state of Michoacán, featuring pork that is slow-cooked in its own fat until tender and then crisped up. The meat is typically seasoned with citrus, garlic, and herbs like oregano, and is a staple filling for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Carnitas is a high-protein dish with a moderate to high fat content, especially from the cooking process, and is very low in carbohydrates. A typical 3-ounce serving provides around 250-300 calories, along with essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbs | 2 g |
| Fat | 35 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Zinc | 5.0 mg |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.7 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 8.0 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.0 mcg |
Per 1 cup (215 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Carnitas is culturally significant as a centerpiece of Mexican celebrations and street food, showcasing the country's culinary heritage. Nutritionally, the slow-cooking method in lard helps retain the meat's moisture and flavor, making it a satisfying and energy-dense food.
