Citrus Carnitas | Lodge Cast Iron

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 300° F.

Step 2

Mix chili powder, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Step 3

Season pork with spice blend.

Step 4

Heat the base of a Double Dutch Oven over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.

Step 5

Add bacon fat and sear the pork in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side.  Remove pork to a plate and set aside.

Step 6

Add onion and garlic cloves.

Step 7

Pour in orange juice, lime juice, and beer and mix well.

Step 8

Add the pork and juices back into the dutch oven and bring to a simmer.

Step 9

Top with the lid and place in the oven for 2 hours.

Step 10

Remove the pork from the oven and set the base over medium heat.

Step 11

Bring the liquid to a boil and reduce to a simmer (uncovered) until thickened, about 10 minutes.

Step 12

Use forks to shred the pork and add it back to the Liquid.

Step 13

Adjust the oven rack to the top position and turn the broiler to high.

Step 14

Spread the pork onto a cast iron baking pan or other broiler safe dish. Broil the carnitas for 3-5 minutes or until the edges are nicely crisped.

Step 15

Remove from heat and serve in tacos, enchiladas, or quesadillas, or add them to the top of tortilla chips with your favorite toppings.