Pulled Pork Carnitas

Don't knock pork butt (also called pork shoulder) until you've tried it!!  It's not actually a pig's butt, don't worry!  I'll tell you what it is!  It's DELICIOUS!!  Juicy, tender and delicious!  This dish has come of my favorite flavor combos!

Enjoy!
Kirsten

PULLED PORK CARNITAS

1 1/2 tablespoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 pounds pork butt
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1/2 medium onion, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup sliced (1/2-inch pieces) green onions
Juice of 1/2 lime

1)  Preheat the oven to 350F.

2)  Mix 1 tablespoon of the salt and all of the pepper in a bowl.  Use to season the pork butt evenly.

3)  In a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the cooking fat, swirling to coat the bottom of the pan.  When the fat is hot, add the pork and brown all sides, 3 to 4 minutes per side.  Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.

4)  In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium-low, add the onion, and cook, stirring until translucent, 4 to 5 minutes.  Add the garlic and cook, stirring vigorously to prevent burning, until aromatic, about 1 minute.  Add 1 cup of water, the chili powder and cinnamon.  Increase the heat to medium high, return the pork to the pot and bring to a boil.

5)  Cover the pot with a lid or tightly wrapped foil.  Transfer to the oven and bake for 2 1/2 hours, turning the meat after each hour.  The pork should be fork-tender when done.

6)  Transfer the pork to a bowl and shred with a fork or two, discarding any excess fat.  Incorporate the cooking liquid from the pot, then add the green onions and lime juice.  Season with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon salt.

NOTES:

~Pork butt is also known as Boston butt, Boston shoulder and pork shoulder roast.

~Make your evening easier by letting your slow cooker do the cooking!  Just complete the recipe through the fourth step (just before transferring the pot to the oven).  At that point, just put everything into the slow cooker and set on low for 8-10 hours.