Easy Recipes for Faux Smoked Pulled Pork Carnitas for Beginners

Updated
2 min read

Faux smoked pulled pork carnitas –If you’re looking for a flavorful and succulent dish to impress your friends and family, look no further than Traeger Smoked Pork Carnitas. This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavors of pork with the ease of using a Traeger grill, making it perfect for any gathering. Whether for a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds!

Traeger Smoked Pork Carnitas

For this delicious smoked pork carnitas recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients and a few simple steps to create a memorable meal.

Traeger Smoked Pork Carnitas

Ingredients:

  • 4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Tortillas, for serving
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  3. Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F (107°C). Place the pork shoulder directly on the grill grates. Smoke for about 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C).”
  4. Once cooked, remove the pork from the grill and wrap it in aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  5. After resting, shred the pork using two forks. Combine the shredded meat with the orange juice, garlic, lime juice, and apple cider vinegar. This step infuses the carnitas with even more flavor.
  6. Serve the smoked carnitas in warm tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or cheese for an extra burst of flavor!

This Traeger Smoked Pork Carnitas is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply enjoyed on its own. Once you try this recipe, it will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire!