Save to Pinterest A vibrant, flavorful bowl featuring tender slow-cooked carnitas served over fluffy rice, with hearty pinto beans, fresh salsa, and creamy avocado. This Carnitas Bowl is a perfect choice for a satisfying, customizable, and gluten-free meal that brings Mexican-inspired flair to your table.
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This recipe balances the richness of shredded pork with the brightness of lime and fresh salsa. Whether you are hosting a dinner or prepping for the week, these bowls offer a complete and wholesome dining experience.
Ingredients
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- Pork Carnitas: 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless pork shoulder (large chunks), 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1/2 onion (chopped), 1 orange (juiced), 1 lime (juiced), 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth.
- Rice: 1 cup long-grain white rice, 2 cups water, 1/2 tsp salt.
- Pinto Beans: 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans (drained and rinsed), 1/4 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp chili powder, 1/4 cup water.
- Toppings: 1 cup fresh tomato salsa, 1 large ripe avocado (sliced), 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1 lime (wedges).
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Carnitas
- In a slow cooker, combine the pork chunks, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic, onion, orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the pork is very tender. Shred the pork with two forks. For crispy edges, transfer the shredded pork to a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- 2. Cook the Rice
- Rinse the rice under cold water until clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low, simmering for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it stand covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- 3. Heat the Pinto Beans
- In a small saucepan, combine the pinto beans, cumin, chili powder, and water. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- 4. Assemble the Bowls
- Divide the rice evenly among four bowls. Top with the prepared pinto beans, shredded carnitas, fresh salsa, avocado slices, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, do not skip the broiling step for the carnitas; it creates those signature crispy edges. Also, ensure you rinse your rice thoroughly to achieve a fluffy, non-sticky consistency.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
You can substitute the white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a whole-grain option. For a vegetarian version, replace the pork with roasted vegetables or seasoned jackfruit.
Serviervorschläge
Enhance your bowl with extra garnishes like pickled red onions or a dollop of sour cream. These additions complement the smoky pork and creamy avocado perfectly.
Save to Pinterest Gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of building these vibrant, protein-packed Carnitas Bowls. It is a satisfying meal that brings together fresh textures and deep, slow-cooked flavors in every bite.
Recipe Q&A
- → How long does it take to cook carnitas?
The carnitas cook in a slow cooker for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high until very tender. For crispy edges, broil the shredded pork for 5-7 minutes before serving.
- → Can I make carnitas ahead of time?
Yes, carnitas freeze and reheat beautifully. Cook the pork in advance, shred it, and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- → What cuts of pork work best for carnitas?
Pork shoulder (also known as Boston butt) is ideal because it has plenty of marbling and connective tissue that breaks down during slow cooking, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
- → How can I make this vegetarian?
Replace the carnitas with roasted vegetables, seasoned jackfruit, or plant-based crumbles. Jackfruit works exceptionally well as it mimics the texture of shredded pork.
- → What other toppings can I add?
Pickled red onions, sour cream, shredded cheese, jalapeño slices, radishes, or corn kernels all make excellent additions. For extra crunch, try crushed tortilla chips on top.
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely. Brown rice adds nutty flavor and extra fiber, though it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the water ratio according to package directions.
