If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that's perfect for sharing, look no further than a Carnitas Fajita. Made with juicy pulled pork, fajita vegetables, and served with warm corn tortillas, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. At 920 calories for one fajita, it's important to balance it with other nutritious foods throughout the day.

In addition to the carnitas and vegetables, typical ingredients in a carnitas fajita recipe include spices like cumin and chili powder, as well as toppings like avocado and lime juice. While it may not be the healthiest option on the menu, it can certainly be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

For those who love a little spice, the carnitas fajita can be adjusted to suit your preference. And if you're looking for a tasty twist on this classic recipe, there are plenty of variations to try. Keep reading to learn more about this delicious dish and how you can make it at home.

What is a Carnitas Fajita?

A carnitas fajita is a Mexican dish typically made with slow-cooked pork that has been shredded into small pieces, along with sautéed vegetables like onions and peppers. The meat and vegetables are served hot, usually in a cast iron fajita skillet, alongside freshly made corn tortillas, salsa, and other optional toppings like grated cheese and guacamole. The dish is meant to be shared and allows diners to assemble their own custom fajitas by scooping portions of meat and vegetables onto warm tortillas and adding toppings as desired. Fajitas are typically served with a side of black beans and rice.

Ingredients in Carnitas Fajita

Some common ingredients in a carnitas fajita recipe include:

• Pork shoulder or butt
• Yellow onion
• Red and green bell pepper
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Cilantro
• Corn tortillas
• Lime juice
• Avocado
• Tomato salsa
• Shredded cheese

While the exact ingredients can vary depending on the recipe, these are some of the most commonly used items.

Calories in a Carnitas Fajita

One serving of carnitas fajita (788 g) contains approximately 920 calories. This is a significant amount of calories, so it's important to exercise portion control and balance it out with other healthy foods throughout the day. While the dish is high in calories, it's also a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. The vegetables used in the dish add nutrients like vitamin C and potassium, while the pork provides protein and iron.

How to make Carnitas Fajita

To make carnitas fajita at home, you'll need the following ingredients and equipment:

• Pork shoulder or butt
• Yellow onion
• Red and green bell pepper
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Cilantro
• Corn tortillas
• Lime juice
• Avocado
• Tomato salsa
• Shredded cheese
• Cast iron skillet

Instructions:

1. Season the pork with cumin, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Cook the pork in a slow cooker until tender and easy to shred.
3. Sauté the onions and bell peppers in a skillet until softened.
4. Add the shredded pork to the skillet and toss with the vegetables.
5. Serve hot, with warm corn tortillas and toppings like avocado, salsa, and shredded cheese.

Nutrition facts of Carnitas Fajita

The exact nutrition facts for a carnitas fajita can vary depending on the recipe and serving size. However, in general, here are some nutrition facts to keep in mind:

• One serving of carnitas fajita (788 g) contains approximately 920 calories, 46 grams of fat, 74 grams of carbohydrates, and 53 grams of protein.
• It is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, potassium, iron, and calcium.
• If possible, use lean cuts of pork and be mindful of portion sizes to help keep the calorie count in check.

Benefits of eating a Carnitas Fajita

While a carnitas fajita may not be the healthiest dish on the menu, it does have some nutritional benefits.

• It's a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscle tissue.
• The vegetables used in the dish provide essential vitamins and minerals, like vitamin C and potassium, which are important for overall health.
• The dish can be made with lean cuts of pork and other nutrient-rich ingredients, like avocado and homemade salsa, to increase its nutritional value.

Why Corn Tortillas are Used in Fajitas

Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for fajitas because they have a unique texture and flavor that complements the juicy meat and sautéed vegetables. They're also a good source of fiber and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium. While flour tortillas may be used in some recipes, corn tortillas are the most authentic choice and are often preferred by people who appreciate traditional Mexican cuisine.

Spice Level in Carnitas Fajita

The spice level in a carnitas fajita can be adjusted to suit your preference. Typically, the dish is seasoned with chili powder and other spices to give it a mild to moderate level of heat. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even diced jalapeños. On the other hand, if you don't like spicy food, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether.

Variations in Carnitas Fajita Recipe

While the classic carnitas fajita recipe is delicious as-is, there are plenty of variations to try if you want to mix things up. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the pork for chicken or beef for a different flavor and texture.
• Add sliced mushrooms to the sautéed vegetables for an earthy flavor and added nutrients.
• Use homemade salsa or pico de gallo instead of jarred salsa for a fresher taste.
• Top your fajitas with diced fresh pineapple or mango for a sweet and tangy kick.
• Make a vegan version of the dish by using plant-based protein alternatives like jackfruit or textured vegetable protein (TVP).

Serving Suggestions for Carnitas Fajita

Carnitas fajitas are typically served family-style, with the hot skillet of meat and vegetables placed in the center of the table along with the tortillas and toppings. Here are some serving suggestions to make your fajita feast even more delicious:

• Serve the fajitas with a side of black beans and rice for a complete meal.
• Offer additional toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños for guests to customize their fajitas.
• Provide plenty of napkins and wet wipes, as the dish can be messy to eat.