Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCounty Road Ice HouseSmoked Pork Carnitas Recipe

Smoked Pork Carnitas Recipe

Time8h
Serves6

(3) smoked pork, salsa verde, cotija cheese, pickled red onion, cilantro, soft yoli corn tortilla

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Ingredients

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Pork Carnitas

Method

Preparing the Pork

  1. 1

    Season the Pork

    In a large bowl, combine salt, black pepper, cumin, and garlic powder. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Smoker

    Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use your choice of wood chips for smoking, such as hickory or applewood.

  3. 3

    Smoke the Pork

    Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the smoker along with the quartered onion, bay leaves, orange juice, and lime juice. Smoke for about 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and can be easily shredded.

  4. 4

    Shred the Pork

    Once cooked, remove the pork from the smoker and let it rest for 30 minutes. Shred the pork using two forks, discarding any excess fat.

Assembling the Tacos

  1. 5

    Warm the Tortillas

    In a dry skillet over medium heat, warm the soft yoli corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.

  2. 6

    Build Your Tacos

    Place a generous amount of shredded smoked pork on each tortilla. Top with salsa verde, crumbled cotija cheese, pickled red onion, and chopped cilantro.

  3. 7

    Serve

    Serve immediately and enjoy your smoked pork carnitas tacos warm!

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