Yes, You Can Eat Carnitas On Weight Watchers (Here’s My Recipe)

These weight watchers friendly carnitas are a a healthier rendition of a the classic dish. We lighten things up byOpting for lean pork loin, and then trim away excess fat, next we replace soda with fresh orange juice, and then let the Instant Pot work its magic until the meat is irresistibly tender.

Why should you try this Carnitas recipe?

1. These carnitas are simple. Choosing a lean cut requires minimal effort—just mix a few ingredients in the Instant Pot, and you’re good to go.

2. Carnitas are super versatile. Beyond the classic taco, burrito, and enchilada companionship, these carnitas effortlessly adapt to salads, cauliflower purees, and even serve as a protein boost for a Buddha Bowl.

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

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Servings: 6-8

Instructions:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Allow natural pressure release for about 15 minutes, then perform a quick release.

5. 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.

Variations and Substitutions:

1. Experiment with condiments to elevate your carnitas. Consider introducing flavors like rosemary, swapping orange juice for a splash of lime, or even trying out mandarin juice for an interesting twist.

2. The real magic happens with the accompaniments. Dive into the delightful combination of corn chunks or a side of black bean soup—guaranteed not to disappoint. And, if you can afford a whole wheat tortilla, even better.

Tips and Tricks Section for Making Carnitas:

1. Elevate your carnitas by marinating the pork in orange juice overnight. .

2. In the traditional recipe, carnitas are fried in pork lard. Here’s my twist: transfer the carnitas from the Instant Pot to a baking tray, roast for about 10 minutes until gloriously golden, and there you have it.

3. Serve the carnitas with lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and even thinly sliced onions for an extra burst of flavor.

WW Points

Cooked lean center loin pork 41 points
Orange juice 4 points
Olive oil 1 point
Black pepper 0 points
Table salt 0 points
Paprika 1 points
Onion powder 1 points
Dried thyme 0 points
Stevia leaf herbal extract 0 points
Vinegar 0 points

8 WW Points Per serving

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