Carnitas de Pollo

Step 1

On a cutting board, rub the chicken thighs with the salt. Transfer to a plate momentarily.

Step 2

This is a time to break out your top-quality Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. Heat the Dutch oven over medium-high heat and spray evenly with cooking spray.

Step 3

Lay down the chicken thighs in a single layer, and cook 12 minutes or until they're well browned before turning. Flip the thighs over and cook 8 minutes or until browned. You want them to be quite crusty, to the point of almost seeming overcooked. Fret not, you'll add some liquid to rehydrate the dish in a moment.

Step 4

When the chicken thighs resemble roasted chicken that's been accidentally left in the oven overnight with the pilot light on, they're ready for the onions and the garlic. Tumble about for a minute or so.

Step 5

Add 2 cups water and the beer, and bring to a simmer. Lower the heat and simmer robustly at a steady, constant bubble for about an hour and 20 minutes, uncovered, or until the liquid is about 1/4 cup from being fully evaporated.

Step 6

Now, add the orange juice, lime juice, and brown sugar, and continue to cook and turn the thighs, about 2 minutes or until the chicken pieces are nicely glazed and nearly falling apart. Turn off the heat.

Step 7

After about 10 minutes, when the chicken is cool enough to handle but still quite warm, remove the chicken and tear it into bite-sized pieces. Combine the pulled chicken with the cooked onions and soft garlic.

Step 8

Platter and serve with warm corn tortillas and lime wedges.