Craving for a quintessential Mexican dish that is flavorful, crispy, and meaty? Look no further than carnitas! Made with succulent, slow-cooked Pork simmered in fragrant spices and citrus, this dish is a popular favorite among Mexican cuisine lovers. In 1 portion of carnitas, you can enjoy all of the mouth-watering goodness for just 221 calories.

Apart from being delicious, carnitas are also a reasonably healthy food option. The dish has a good balance of essential macronutrients such as protein and fats making it a satisfying meal that can keep you feeling full for a long time.

In this article, we'll explore some useful information, nutrition facts, cooking tips, and serving suggestions to help you create a perfect plate of carnitas at home.

What are Carnitas?

Carnitas are a traditional Mexican dish made from simmering Pork meat slowly in lard or oil until it becomes crispy and caramelized. The meat is tender, juicy, and flavorful, and the slow cooking process brings out the inherent sweetness and richness of the pork. Carnitas can be served in Tacos, Burritos, bowls, or eaten plain as a tasty and fulfilling protein source.

How many calories in 1 portion?

One portion or four ounces of carnitas typically contains about 221 calories. The serving size may vary depending on the recipe or the accompanying dishes. However, the calorie count will also change accordingly.

Nutritional information

Here are the nutritional values you can expect from 1 portion or four ounces of carnitas: - Calories: 221 - Protein: 23g, Fat: 13g, Carbohydrates: 1g, Fiber: 0g

What are the ingredients?

The ingredients for carnitas vary slightly depending on the region, recipe, or the style. However, some of the typical and essential ingredients used in making carnitas include: - Pork shoulder or butt, cut into small pieces - Lard or oil, for frying and flavoring

How to cook Carnitas at home?

Carnitas are relatively easy to prepare at home, and you just need a handful of ingredients to get started. Here's an easy and straightforward recipe you can try at home: - Cut 2 lbs of Pork shoulder or butt into small chunks and season them with salt and pepper. - In a large skillet or pot, heat up 2 cups of lard or oil over medium-high heat. Once heated, add the pork pieces and cook them for about 60-90 minutes or until the meat is tender, crispy, and golden brown.

Serving suggestions

Carnitas are versatile and can be served in various ways depending on your preference or accompanying dishes. Here are some serving ideas you can try: - In corn tortillas with diced onions, cilantro, and lime juice - As a topping for rice or beans

Mexican vs American Carnitas

Carnitas originated in Mexico and have become one of the most popular and iconic Mexican dishes worldwide. However, there is also a distinct variation of carnitas called 'American' carnitas, which is typically made with Pork loin instead of shoulder or butt. American carnitas tend to be milder in flavor and less fatty and may come with different serving options.

Health benefits of Carnitas

Apart from being delicious, carnitas also have some health benefits that can make them a healthy addition to your meals. Some of the benefits include: - High protein content that can help build and repair body tissues - Good amounts of healthy fats that can provide energy and improve heart health

Carnitas as a source of protein

Carnitas are an excellent source of protein, one of the essential macronutrients your body needs for growth, repair, and maintenance. One portion of carnitas can provide as much as 23 grams of protein, which is almost half of the daily recommended intake for an average person.

Why you should try Carnitas

Carnitas are a tasty and healthy food option that can add some variety and excitement to your meals. Whether you're a fan of Mexican cuisine or just want to try something new, carnitas can be a satisfying and fulfilling dish that you can enjoy anytime.