Caveman Carnitas is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. The pork is cooked in the air fryer until golden brown and crispy, and then simmered in a flavorful sauce. The result is a tender and juicy pork that is full of flavor.
Carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish that is made with pork shoulder that is braised in lard until it is fall-off-the-bone tender. The meat is then shredded and served on tacos, burritos, or tostadas. Caveman Carnitas is a healthier version of this dish that is made with less fat and calories. The pork is cooked in the air fryer instead of braised in lard, and the sauce is made with water instead of oil. The result is a dish that is just as flavorful and satisfying as traditional carnitas, but it is much healthier.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 pound pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup water
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine the pork shoulder, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
Add the pork shoulder to the air fryer basket and cook for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Add the water to the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Remove the pork from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Why It Works
The air fryer cooks the pork quickly and evenly, resulting in a tender and juicy piece of meat.
The combination of chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper gives the pork a flavorful crust.
The water helps to create a flavorful sauce that is perfect for serving over the pork.