Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite! Our Mango Habanero Pulled Pork Carnitas combines the rich, savory flavors of succulent pork with the sweet and spicy kick of fresh mango and habanero peppers. Perfect for taco night or a cozy family dinner, this recipe promises to be the star of your table. With just a little prep time and a slow cook that fills your home with irresistible aromas, you won't want to miss out on this delicious adventure. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 mango, diced
- 2 habanero peppers, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Dice the mango, mince the habanero peppers, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Set these aside for later use.
- Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork shoulder and sear it on all sides until it develops a golden-brown crust. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate those flavors.
- Once the onion and garlic are ready, return the seared pork shoulder to the skillet. Add the diced mango and minced habanero peppers on top of the pork.
- Cover the pork with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook the pork shoulder for about 6 hours, or until it is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Alternatively, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for the same duration.
- After the cooking time has elapsed, remove the pork from the skillet or slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded pork to the skillet or slow cooker and stir it into the mango and habanero mixture, ensuring the meat is well-coated with the flavorful juices.
- Allow the pulled pork to rest for a few minutes, then taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- To serve, spoon the mango habanero pulled pork carnitas into warm tortillas or over rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for a well-marbled pork shoulder for the best flavor and tenderness. The fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat juicy and delicious.
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the pork shoulder adds depth and richness to your carnitas, enhancing the overall taste.
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, consider using just one habanero pepper or removing the seeds to tone down the heat while still enjoying that fruity flavor.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, transfer everything to a slow cooker after searing the pork. This method allows for even more tender results as the flavors meld together over time.
- Rest Before Shredding: Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking before shredding. This helps retain moisture and makes it easier to handle.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of the mango and the heat of the habanero. Don’t skimp on this vibrant garnish!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your pulled pork in warm tortillas, over rice, or even in a salad for a refreshing twist. Pair it with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 140mg
