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Easy Qdoba Carnitas Recipe

Qdoba Carnitas Recipe

Joe Williams
Allow me to take you on a flavorful journey. Qdoba Mexican Eats has been a go-to destination for many taco and burrito enthusiasts, and their carnitas stand out for a good reason! When I think of cozy meals perfect for gatherings or simply indulging after a long day, carnitas is at the top of my list. 
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 290 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow cooker

Ingredients
  

Salad Bowl

  • 2 cups fragrant cilantro-lime rice
  • 1 cup seasoned black beans
  • 4 cups finely shredded romaine lettuce
  • 2 cups tender slow-cooker carnitas
  • 1/2 cup fresh pico de gallo salsa
  • 1/4 cup grated Mexican blend cheese optional
  • 1/2 cup creamy guacamole
  • Lime crema optional (or substitute with a dollop of sour cream)
  • 1/4 cup roasted corn kernels for added sweetness and texture

Fajita Veggies

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 bell pepper thinly sliced (any color)
  • 1/2 medium onion thinly sliced
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1 clove garlic minced (for extra flavor)
  • Fajita seasoning blend to taste

Instructions
 

  • Let’s walk through how to prepare Qdoba Carnitas. Follow these steps to create perfect carnitas.

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

  • Start with a pork shoulder. Trim any excess fat, but don’t go overboard. A little fat will ensure your carnitas are moist. Cut the pork into large chunks for even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Meat

  • In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, diced onion, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture generously onto the pork. Make sure every piece is well-coated. This seasoning will penetrate as it cooks.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork

  • Place the pork in a slow cooker. Pour the orange juice over it. This adds moisture and flavor. Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 8–10 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for about 4-5 hours. You want it to be fork-tender.

Step 4: Shred the Pork

  • Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks. This keeps the meat juicy.

Step 5: Crisp It Up (Optional)

  • For an extra layer of flavor, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet. Broil it in your oven for 5–10 minutes until the edges are crispy. This step adds texture and more flavor.

Step 6: Serve!

  • Now, it’s time to serve your Qdoba Carnitas! Place it in tacos, burritos, or even a bowl. Don’t forget your favorite toppings to complete the dish.

Notes

Here are some handy tips to ensure your carnitas come out delicious every time:
  • Choosing the Right Cut: Opt for pork shoulder, also known as pork butt. This cut has enough fat to keep the meat moist.
  • Don’t Rush the Cooking: Slow cooking is key to tender meat. Patience pays off in flavor and texture.
  • Save the Cooking Liquid: After shredding, consider saving some of the cooking liquid to add moisture and flavor back to the meat.
  • Try Different Cooking Methods: If time is of the essence, you can use a pressure cooker. It won’t have the same depth of flavor as slow cooking but still works.
  • Make It Ahead of Time: This dish reheats well, so feel free to prepare it in advance. Perfect for meal prep!

Nutrition

Calories: 290kcalProtein: 27gFat: 19g
Keyword Qdoba Carnitas Recipe
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