Carnita

Cheech, here is a recipe from Z Tejas- BTW carnitas are made from fresh pork butts-no smoke involved.


Z Tejas Dos XX's Pork Carnitas Recipe courtesy of Chef Marc Janiec of Z'Tejas Grill

8 servings
1¾ hours 1¼ hours prep

6 lbs pork butt, cut into 2 inch cubes
1 1/2 quarts water
1 quart orange juice
3 (12 ounce) bottles Dos XX beer
1/4 cup achiote powder or paprika
4 ancho chilies, stems removed
6 bay leaves
3 tablespoons garlic, chopped
1/4 cup kosher salt
1 lb white onions, chopped

Place the pork, water, orange juice, achiote, beer, bay leaves, ancho chilies, onion and garlic in a large roasting pan.

Place pan over low heat; cook about 1 hour or just until the meat is about to fall apart.

Using a slotted spoon, remove meat to a sheet pan; let cool slightly.

Drain the juices from the pork; reserve for later use.

Discard the onions and remaining solids in the roasting pan.

In a large saucepan, heat corn oil to about 350 degrees (Caution: Make sure there is at least 6 inches of room between the top of the pan and the oil, otherwise, the oil could boil over).

Being careful not to burn the meat, slowly and carefully add the chunks of meat to the hot oil; fry until crispy.

Using a slotted spoon, place the meat in the reserved sauce.

Cover the pan with aluminum foil and cook in a 300-degree oven for 30 minutes.

Enjoy