Today, I want to share with you a recipe for Amazing Hazel's Zesty Chili Pork Carnitas. This dish has become a new favorite in my household and I can't wait for you to try it out too. With fresh ingredients and whole lot of Chili Sauce these tacos make for the perfect weeknight family meal!
INGREDIENTS
- ½ cup AMAZING HAZEL’S CHILI SAUCE
- 2 lbs Boneless Pork Loin
- ½ Large Onion – sliced thin
- ½ cup Orange Juice
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tbsp Cumin
- 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tbsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Ground Pepper
- 12 tbsp Canola Oil (for browning meat AFTER it’s been cooked)
- Flour Tortillas
- Fresh Lime Wedges
- Quesadilla Cheese (shredded)
- Cilantro (roughly chopped)
- Refried Beans (heat immediately before serving)
- Red Onion (chopped)
- Additional AMAZING HAZEL’S ZESTY CHILI SAUCE (garnish)
Directions
- In a medium (or large) crockpot, place in order: sliced onion, pork loin, dry seasonings, AMAZING HAZEL’S ZESTY CHILI SAUCE, and orange juice. (Tip: Use a crockpot liner for easier cleanup.) Cook on low approximately 5-6 hours, or until meat is tender enough to shred. Shred meat and return to juices. Prior to serving, heat oil in a non-stick skillet. Add meat (in small batches), and brown on med-high heat. (Note: Most recipes for carnitas will advise browning in the oven. My experience is that the oven will dry the meat out. The skillet method is much more effective. Or, you can just skip this step altogether.)
Assembling the carnitas:
- In a non-stick skillet, brown tortillas on both sides. (Obviously, this step can be stepped, as well. I just like them browned.)
- Spread refried beans…
- Top with browned carnita meat…
- Garnish with quesadilla cheese, onions, cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and (of course) more AMAZING HAZEL’S ZESTY CHILI SAUCE…
Devour Carnita #1…
- Take a breath (You’re going to need it for the next one!)…
Devour Carnita #2
- Prep tip: Double this recipe on a Sunday for the week ahead. This carnita mixture is very versatile…add it to omelettes, quesadillas, salads, nachos, enchiladas, or, even, add some bbq sauce for sandwiches. Enjoy!