Jul 13 2026
Restaurants›Baja Taco Shop›Carnitas Taco Recipe

Carnitas Taco Recipe

Inspired by Baja Taco Shop
Time3h
Serves4

Make Carnitas Taco Recipe in just 3h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Jump to Recipe

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Carnitas

Taco Assembly

Method

Cooking the Carnitas

  1. 1

    Prepare the Pork

    Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks and season with cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

  2. 2

    Sauté Aromatics

    In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Add Ingredients

    Add the seasoned pork to the pot along with the orange juice, lime juice, bay leaves, and enough water to cover the meat.

  4. 4

    Cook the Pork

    Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds.

  5. 5

    Shred the Meat

    Remove the pork from the pot and shred it with two forks. Discard the bay leaves.

  6. 6

    Crisp the Carnitas

    In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of the shredded pork and cook until the edges are crispy, about 3-5 minutes.

Assembling the Tacos

  1. 7

    Warm the Tortillas

    Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or on a griddle until warm and pliable.

  2. 8

    Build the Tacos

    On each tortilla, add a generous portion of the crispy carnitas, followed by chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and a spoonful of salsa.

  3. 9

    Serve with Lime

    Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

More from Baja Taco Shop