Cómo preparar las carnitas estilo michoacán is a question that often arises among food enthusiasts seeking to recreate the rich and flavorful dish from the Mexican state of Michoacán. These tender, slow-cooked pork belly carnitas are a staple in Michoacán cuisine, known for their mouthwatering aroma and succulent texture. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making authentic carnitas estilo michoacán, ensuring that you capture the essence of this traditional dish in your own kitchen.
To begin, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds of pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried Mexican oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of lard or vegetable oil
Now, let’s dive into the cooking process:
1. In a large pot, heat the lard or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Place the pork belly cubes in the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, water, dried oregano, ground cumin, Mexican oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix the ingredients.
5. Pour the sauce over the pork belly and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
6. After the pork has cooked for the required time, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, using a fork or two forks, shred the pork into smaller pieces.
7. Return the shredded pork to the pot and stir to combine with the sauce. Cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve the carnitas estilo michoacán warm, accompanied by your choice of side dishes such as rice, beans, or tortillas.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to prepare authentic carnitas estilo michoacán that will delight your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant streets of Michoacán. ¡Buon appetito!