Instant Pot Carnitas with Mango Salsa: A Flavor Fiesta in Minutes!

Craving that melt-in-your-mouth, crispy-on-the-edges carnitas goodness? But don’t have hours to babysit a simmering pot? Fear not! This Instant Pot Carnitas recipe is your ticket to authentic Mexican flavor, ready in a fraction of the traditional time. And to take it to the next level, we’re pairing it with a vibrant, sweet, and tangy mango salsa that perfectly complements the rich pork. Get ready for a flavor fiesta in your kitchen!

## Why Instant Pot Carnitas are a Game Changer

Traditional carnitas require slow-cooking a large pork shoulder (pork butt) in lard for several hours. While the results are undeniably delicious, the process can be time-consuming and messy. The Instant Pot streamlines this process beautifully. Here’s why you’ll love making carnitas in your Instant Pot:

* **Speed:** Forget all-day simmering. The Instant Pot cuts the cooking time down to about an hour, start to finish.
* **Ease:** Simply throw the ingredients into the pot, set it, and forget it. No constant monitoring required.
* **Flavor:** The pressure cooking method infuses the pork with intense flavor, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy meat.
* **Crispy Perfection:** A quick broil in the oven after pressure cooking ensures those coveted crispy edges that make carnitas so irresistible.
* **Healthier (Optional):** While traditionally cooked in lard, this recipe utilizes orange juice and other flavorful liquids, making it a lighter, though just as delicious, alternative.

## The Secret to Perfect Instant Pot Carnitas

While the Instant Pot makes the process easier, a few key techniques will elevate your carnitas from good to extraordinary:

* **Choose the Right Cut of Pork:** Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) is the best cut for carnitas. It has plenty of marbling, which renders during cooking, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
* **Sear the Pork (Optional but Recommended):** Searing the pork before pressure cooking adds a depth of flavor and helps develop a beautiful crust. This step is optional, but definitely worth the extra effort.
* **Don’t Skimp on the Seasoning:** Carnitas are all about bold flavors. Use a generous amount of salt, pepper, and other spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder.
* **Natural Pressure Release:** Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 15 minutes after cooking results in more tender and juicy meat.
* **The Broiling Secret:** Broiling the shredded pork in a single layer after pressure cooking is crucial for achieving those signature crispy edges.

## The Star of the Show: Mango Salsa

Carnitas are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a bright and refreshing mango salsa takes them to a whole new level. The sweetness of the mango, the heat of the jalapeño, and the tang of the lime create a perfect balance of flavors that complement the rich, savory pork.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

**For the Instant Pot Carnitas:**

* 3-4 lb Pork Shoulder (Pork Butt), cut into 2-3 inch chunks
* 1 large Onion, quartered
* 4-6 cloves Garlic, minced
* 1 Orange, juiced and zested
* 1 Lime, juiced
* 1 cup Chicken Broth (or water)
* 2 tsp Cumin
* 1 tsp Dried Oregano
* 1 tsp Chili Powder
* 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
* 1/2 tsp Salt (or more to taste)
* 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
* 2 Bay Leaves
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for searing, optional)

**For the Mango Salsa:**

* 2 ripe Mangoes, diced
* 1/2 Red Onion, finely diced
* 1 Jalapeño, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped
* 2 tbsp Lime Juice
* Salt to taste

## Step-by-Step Instructions

**Step 1: Prepare the Pork**

* Pat the pork shoulder chunks dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better.
* In a large bowl, combine the pork with cumin, oregano, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

**Step 2: Sear the Pork (Optional)**

* If searing, heat olive oil in the Instant Pot using the “Sauté” function.
* Sear the pork in batches, browning on all sides. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this will steam the pork instead of searing it. Remove the seared pork and set aside.

**Step 3: Pressure Cook the Carnitas**

* Add the quartered onion and minced garlic to the Instant Pot.
* Pour in the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth.
* Add the seared pork (or unseared pork if skipping the searing step) to the Instant Pot.
* Add the orange zest and bay leaves.
* Close the Instant Pot lid and seal the valve. Cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” high pressure for 45 minutes.

**Step 4: Natural Pressure Release**

* After the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, manually release any remaining pressure.

**Step 5: Shred the Pork**

* Carefully remove the pork from the Instant Pot using a slotted spoon or tongs. Discard the bay leaves.
* Shred the pork with two forks. The meat should be very tender and easy to shred.

**Step 6: Crisp the Carnitas**

* Preheat your oven broiler to high.
* Line a baking sheet with foil.
* Spread the shredded pork in a single layer on the baking sheet.
* Broil for 5-10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning. You may need to flip the pork halfway through to ensure even crisping.

**Step 7: Prepare the Mango Salsa**

* While the pork is broiling, prepare the mango salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice.
* Season with salt to taste. Gently toss to combine.

**Step 8: Assemble and Serve**

* Serve the crispy carnitas immediately with the mango salsa. You can enjoy them in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or simply on their own.
* Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or your favorite toppings.

## Tips and Variations

* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped serrano pepper to the carnitas for extra heat.
* **Sweeten it Up:** Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the carnitas for a touch of sweetness.
* **Add Some Citrus:** Use a combination of orange and grapefruit juice for a more complex citrus flavor.
* **Make it Ahead:** The carnitas can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat and crisp in the oven before serving. The mango salsa is best served fresh.
* **Use Different Toppings:** Get creative with your toppings! Try pickled onions, guacamole, sour cream, cotija cheese, or your favorite hot sauce.
* **Make it a Bowl:** Serve the carnitas and mango salsa over rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.
* **Leftover Carnitas Ideas:** Use leftover carnitas in omelets, sandwiches, salads, or even nachos.
* **For a spicier salsa:** Leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a second jalapeño.
* **Don’t have mangoes?** Substitute with pineapple or peaches.

## Serving Suggestions

These Instant Pot Carnitas with Mango Salsa are incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Tacos:** The classic choice! Warm tortillas, fill with carnitas, top with mango salsa, and your favorite toppings.
* **Burrito Bowls:** Layer rice, black beans, carnitas, mango salsa, and other toppings in a bowl for a healthy and satisfying meal.
* **Quesadillas:** Fill tortillas with carnitas and cheese, grill until golden brown, and serve with mango salsa and sour cream.
* **Nachos:** Load tortilla chips with carnitas, cheese, mango salsa, and other nacho favorites.
* **Salad:** Top a bed of lettuce with carnitas, mango salsa, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and flavorful salad.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

* Calories: 400-600 per serving
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use a different cut of pork?**

A: While pork shoulder is the best choice for carnitas due to its high fat content, you can use pork loin or tenderloin as a leaner alternative. However, the carnitas may be drier, so be sure to add enough liquid during cooking.

**Q: Can I skip the searing step?**

A: Yes, you can skip the searing step if you’re short on time. However, searing adds a depth of flavor and helps develop a beautiful crust.

**Q: How long will the carnitas last in the refrigerator?**

A: Cooked carnitas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

**Q: Can I freeze the carnitas?**

A: Yes, you can freeze the carnitas. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

**Q: Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?**

A: The mango salsa is best served fresh. However, you can make it a few hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The mangoes may soften slightly over time.

**Q: My carnitas are too dry. What can I do?**

A: If your carnitas are too dry, try adding a little bit of the cooking liquid back into the shredded pork before broiling. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter.

**Q: My carnitas are not crispy enough. What can I do?**

A: Make sure you are spreading the shredded pork in a single layer on the baking sheet and broiling it at high heat. You may also need to broil it for a longer period of time, but watch carefully to prevent burning.

## Conclusion

This Instant Pot Carnitas with Mango Salsa recipe is a winner! It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The Instant Pot makes the carnitas incredibly tender and juicy, while the mango salsa adds a burst of freshness. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So, fire up your Instant Pot and get ready to enjoy a flavor fiesta!

Enjoy your homemade Instant Pot Carnitas with Mango Salsa! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and will quickly become a family favorite. Happy cooking!