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Coca Cola carnitas with rice and beans

Carnitas de Puerco

Carnitas de puerco are an easy and delicious Mexican recipe the whole family will enjoy.

Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword carnitas de puerco, coca cola carnitas
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings 10
Calories 359 kcal
Author Carissa

Ingredients

  • 4 lbs pork shoulder or butt cut into chunks
  • 3 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 2 tbs olive oil plus more as needed
  • 1 white onion sliced
  • 12 cloves garlic peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp Mexican oregano
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 16 oz Coca Cola

Instructions

  1. Season the pork chunks with the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the seasonings into the meat well.

  2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the pork in batches and sear it on all sides for a few minutes, or until nicely browned. Transfer the browned pork to a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces. Add a little more oil to the pot if needed.

  3. Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the sliced garlic and cook for another 2–3 minutes.

  4. Return the pork to the pot. Add the Mexican oregano, bay leaves, and Coca-Cola. Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 2–3 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender.

  5. Remove the lid and continue cooking uncovered for about 15 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated. Taste and add more salt if needed.

  6. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings and enjoy!