Chipotle Mexican Grill's Carnitas Tacos (Copycat Recipe)

This recipe recreates the beloved carnitas tacos from Chipotle Mexican Grill, featuring tender, slow-cooked pork seasoned with traditional Mexican spices. The rich, savory flavor of the carnitas is complemented by fresh toppings, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for taco night, these tacos are easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 orange, juiced
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Corn tortillas
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish
• Diced onions, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's evenly coated.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot. Add the bay leaf, orange juice, lime juice, quartered onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Cook for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
6. Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the meat using two forks.
7. Optional: For crispy carnitas, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes until the edges are crispy.
8. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or on a grill.
9. Assemble the tacos by placing a generous amount of carnitas on each tortilla. Top with chopped cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime juice.
10. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.