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A close-up of a taco on a corn tortilla, filled with flavorful instant pot pork carnitas, chopped onions, and fresh cilantro, with another taco and extra cilantro visible in the background.

Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

Quick and delicious Instant Pot Pork Carnitas—perfect for any meal!

Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword Instant Pot Carnitas, Instant Pot Pork Carnitas, Pork Tacos in the Instant Pot
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 6 -8
Author momma lew

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs pork shoulder cut into smaller pieces
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 orange juice and zest
  • 2 limes juiced
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Season the pork chunks with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder.
  2. Ensure each piece is well-coated.
  3. Place pork in the Instant Pot. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh orange juice and orange zest, lime juice, and chicken broth.
  4. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" high for a cook time of 90 minutes.
  5. Once finished, allow for a natural release.
  6. Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks.
  7. For crispy carnitas, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until the edges are golden and crispy.
  8. Serve your tender pork carnitas on warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Recipe Video

Recipe Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth if needed to keep it moist.