Healthy Instant Pot Carnitas
Using lean pork loin in Carnitas, we skillfully trim away excess fat, replacing soda with fresh orange juice, and then let the Instant Pot work its magic.
Servings: 8 people
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (approx. 900 g) pork loin, trimmed and cut into chunks
- 1 cup (240 ml) fresh orange juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 packet Stevia (or sweetener of choice)
- 1 teaspoon oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine pork loin, minced garlic, salt, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, vinegar, black pepper, and Stevia. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated pork chunks until browned on all sides. This step enhances flavor but is optional.
- Place the seared pork loin in the Instant Pot. Pour fresh orange juice over the pork, ensuring the pieces are partially submerged. Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 1 hour.
- Allow natural pressure release for about 15 minutes, then perform a quick release.
- Using two forks, shred the cooked pork directly in the Instant Pot. It should effortlessly fall apart. For a crispy finish, transfer the shredded carnitas to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Squeeze a bit more lime juice over the carnitas for a burst of freshness.
Notes
8 WW Points
Nutrition
Serving: 200g | Calories: 252kcal | Carbohydrates: 6.8g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 9.5g | Saturated Fat: 3.1g | Cholesterol: 89mg | Sodium: 469mg | Potassium: 718mg | Fiber: 0.9g | Sugar: 3.7g | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 2mg