10 Irresistible Taco Ideas for Every Kind of Craving

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Carnitas are a Mexican street food classic, made with slow-cooked pork that’s tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Served in warm corn tortillas and topped with chopped onion, cilantro, a sprinkle of cheese, and a squeeze of lime, these tacos are simple yet bursting with authentic flavor.

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

• 2 lb pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 orange, juiced
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 corn tortillas
• ½ cup onion, finely diced
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup queso fresco or Cotija cheese, crumbled
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides.
2. Add the onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, and enough water to cover the pork. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 2 hours until the pork is fork-tender.
3. Remove the pork from the pot, shred with forks, and spread on a baking sheet. Broil for 5–7 min. until crispy edges form.
4. Warm the tortillas and fill with carnitas. Top with diced onion, cilantro, and crumbled cheese.
5. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the tacos.