Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef carnitas are a flavorful and tender alternative to traditional . Slow-cooked to perfection, the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while absorbing a variety of spices and seasonings that give it a rich, savory flavor. Whether you’re using it in tacos, burritos, or as a main dish, this beef carnitas recipe is versatile and perfect for any occasion. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Beef Carnitas

Ingredients

3-4 lbs beef chuck roast or brisket, cut into large chunks
1 large onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 bay leaf
2 cups beef broth
1/4 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sear the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef chunks with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, and cinnamon. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step enhances the flavor and creates a rich crust on the meat.
Add the Aromatics:
- Once the beef is browned, add the onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Simmer the Carnitas:
- Pour in the beef broth, orange juice, and lime juice. Add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 2.5-3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
Shred the Beef:
- Remove the beef from the pot and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat.
Crisp the Beef (Optional):
- If you want crispy carnitas, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the shredded beef in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until the edges become crispy. Stir occasionally and cook for another 5 minutes to get a nice crisp on the beef.
Serve:
- Serve the beef carnitas in tacos, burritos, or over rice, and top with your favorite garnishes like fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, and salsa.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Total time: 3.5 hours
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 3 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the simmering beef for an extra kick of heat.
Slow cooker version: For a hands-off approach, add the seared beef, onion, garlic, and liquids to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and shreddable.
Add vegetables: Throw in chopped bell peppers, tomatoes, or carrots during the cooking process for added flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover beef carnitas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the carnitas on the stovetop in a skillet with a little bit of broth to prevent them from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave them with a damp paper towel to keep the meat moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can substitute the beef chuck roast with other cuts like brisket or round roast, though chuck roast is the best option for tenderness and flavor.

2. Can I make beef carnitas ahead of time?

Absolutely! Beef carnitas store well in the refrigerator and can even be frozen for longer storage. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! For the Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 60-70 minutes and then naturally release the pressure. The beef will be just as tender and flavorful.

4. Can I use a different citrus juice instead of orange juice?

If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute with lime juice or lemon juice, though the flavor will be slightly different.

5. How can I make the beef carnitas spicier?

For more heat, add fresh chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix before cooking.

6. How do I make the carnitas crispy?

To achieve crispy carnitas, simply sauté the shredded beef in a skillet with a bit of oil over medium-high heat until the edges become crispy. This adds a great texture to the dish.

7. Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it first before cooking. Frozen beef may need a bit more time to cook thoroughly.

8. What are the best toppings for beef carnitas?

Some popular toppings include fresh cilantro, diced onions, avocado, lime wedges, salsa, sour cream, and pickled red onions.

9. Can I freeze the beef carnitas?

Yes, you can freeze the shredded beef carnitas in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

10. Can I use beef carnitas for other dishes?

Absolutely! Beef carnitas are versatile and can be used in tacos, burritos, bowls, salads, or even as a filling for empanadas or sandwiches.

Conclusion

Beef carnitas are a flavorful and tender dish that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or any meal that needs a hearty, flavorful filling. The slow-cooked beef absorbs the spices and citrus juices, making every bite rich and savory. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, beef carnitas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe for your next meal, and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade carnitas!

Jane