Carnitas, which translates to “little meats” in Spanish, is a popular Mexican dish that originated in the city of Michoacán. It’s a flavorful and tender pork dish that’s slow-cooked in its own lard until it’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. But what do you serve with carnitas to elevate this dish to the next level? In this article, we’ll explore the perfect accompaniments to serve with carnitas, from traditional Mexican sides to modern twists and flavorful combinations.
A Brief History of Carnitas
Before we dive into the world of carnitas pairings, let’s take a step back and appreciate the rich history behind this beloved Mexican dish. Carnitas has its roots in the state of Michoacán, where it was originally cooked in large copper pots over an open flame. The slow-cooking process allowed the pork to absorb the flavors of the spices, chilies, and herbs, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Over time, carnitas spread throughout Mexico and became a staple in many households. Each region put its own twist on the dish, adding unique ingredients and spices to create a distinct flavor profile. Today, carnitas is enjoyed not only in Mexico but also around the world, and its popularity continues to grow.
Traditional Mexican Sides to Serve with Carnitas
When it comes to serving carnitas, traditional Mexican sides are a great place to start. These classic pairings have been perfected over generations and complement the rich flavors of the dish. Here are some popular options:
Warm Tortillas
Warm tortillas are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and they pair perfectly with carnitas. Simply warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds. Then, serve them on the side to use as a wrapping vessel for your carnitas.
Refried Beans
Refried beans are a classic Mexican side dish that complements the rich flavors of carnitas. Made from pinto beans, onions, garlic, and spices, refried beans add a comforting and familiar element to the dish.
Spanish-Style Rice
Spanish-style rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs well with the smoky flavors of carnitas. Made with saffron, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, this side dish adds a pop of color and flavor to the plate.
Fried Plantains
Fried plantains are a popular side dish in Mexican cuisine, and they add a delightful crunch to the dish. Simply slice the plantains, dust them with flour, and fry them until crispy.
Modern Twists and Flavorful Combinations
While traditional Mexican sides are delicious, it’s always exciting to put a modern twist on a classic dish. Here are some flavorful combinations to serve with carnitas:
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a great way to add some color and nutrition to the dish. Simply toss your favorite vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes) with olive oil, lime juice, and spices, and roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized.
Grilled Pineapple Salsa
Grilled pineapple salsa is a sweet and tangy condiment that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of carnitas. Simply grill slices of pineapple until caramelized, then chop them up with red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice.
Creamy Avocado Slaw
Creamy avocado slaw is a refreshing and cooling side dish that complements the rich flavors of carnitas. Simply mash ripe avocados with lime juice, salt, and pepper, then mix in diced red onion, cilantro, and squeeze of lime juice.
Desert Pairings: Sweet Treats to Serve with Carnitas
Why not end the meal on a sweet note? Here are some delicious dessert pairings to serve with carnitas:
Churros con Cajeta
Churros con cajeta is a classic Mexican dessert that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of carnitas. Simply fry churros until crispy, then drizzle with a sweet and caramel-like cajeta sauce.
Coconut Flan
Coconut flan is a creamy and indulgent dessert that complements the rich flavors of carnitas. Simply mix together coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and spices, then bake until set.
Beer and Cocktail Pairings: Elevate Your Carnitas Experience
Why not elevate your carnitas experience with a cold beer or a craft cocktail? Here are some pairing suggestions:
Cerveza
A cold cerveza is the perfect pairing for carnitas. The crisp, refreshing flavors of the beer cut through the richness of the dish, making it a match made in heaven.
Margaritas
Margaritas are a classic Mexican cocktail that pair perfectly with the bold flavors of carnitas. Simply mix together tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup, then serve in a salt-rimmed glass.
Palomita
Palomita is a refreshing Mexican cocktail made with tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup. It’s a light and citrusy drink that complements the savory flavors of carnitas.
In conclusion, serving carnitas is an art that requires a delicate balance of flavors, textures, and temperatures. Whether you choose to stick to traditional Mexican sides or put a modern twist on the dish, the key is to complement the rich flavors of the carnitas without overpowering them. By experimenting with different pairings and combinations, you’ll find the perfect way to elevate this beloved Mexican dish. ¡Buen provecho!
What is the best way to cook carnitas?
Cooking carnitas requires patience and attention to detail, but the end result is well worth the effort. To achieve tender, flavorful carnitas, it’s essential to braise the pork in lard or oil over low heat for several hours. This slow-cooking process breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in tender, juicy bites. You can also add aromatics like onions, garlic, and spices to the pot for added flavor.
It’s also crucial to choose the right cut of pork for carnitas. Look for pork shoulder or pork belly, which have a higher fat content and will yield the most tender, flavorful results. If you’re short on time, you can also use a slow cooker or Instant Pot to cook the carnitas, but the traditional stovetop method is often the most rewarding.
What are some popular sides to serve with carnitas?
Carnitas are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides to complement their rich, savory flavor. One of the most traditional pairings is with refried beans, which provide a comforting, creamy contrast to the crispy, fried pork. You can also serve carnitas with Mexican street corn, grilled or roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Other popular options include Spanish rice, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled tortillas, which can be used to make tacos or wrapped around the carnitas for a satisfying, handheld meal. Whatever sides you choose, be sure to balance the richness of the pork with bright, acidic flavors and varied textures to keep the dish interesting.
Can I make carnitas ahead of time?
One of the greatest things about carnitas is that they can be made ahead of time, which makes them perfect for busy weeknights or large gatherings. Once the pork is cooked, you can shred it and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months.
When you’re ready to serve, simply crisp up the pork in a skillet with a little oil and serve with your choice of sides and toppings. This flexibility makes carnitas an ideal option for meal prep, potlucks, or casual dinner parties.
What are some creative ways to use leftover carnitas?
Carnitas are incredibly versatile, and leftover pork can be used in a variety of creative ways. One of the most popular options is to make carnitas tacos, which can be topped with salsa, avocado, sour cream, and a sprinkle of queso fresco.
You can also use leftover carnitas to make quesadillas, burritos, or nachos, or add them to soups, stews, or salads for a boost of protein and flavor. For a breakfast twist, try adding carnitas to scrambled eggs or breakfast burritos for a delicious, filling meal.
Can I make carnitas in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
While traditional stovetop carnitas are incredibly tender and flavorful, you can also make them in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a quicker, more hands-off option. Simply brown the pork in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker or Instant Pot with your choice of aromatics and spices.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours in the slow cooker or 90 minutes in the Instant Pot, then shred the pork and crisp it up in a skillet before serving. This method is ideal for busy weeknights or days when you don’t have a lot of time to devote to cooking.
What are some popular toppings for carnitas?
Carnitas are incredibly customizable, and the toppings you choose can greatly impact the flavor and texture of the dish. Some popular options include diced onions, salsa, sour cream, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of cilantro or scallions.
You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime juice, some diced radishes or avocado, or a spoonful of spicy salsa or hot sauce to give the dish an extra kick. Whatever toppings you choose, be sure to balance the flavors and textures to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Can I make carnitas vegetarian or vegan?
While traditional carnitas are made with pork, you can create a vegetarian or vegan version by substituting the meat with a plant-based alternative. Some popular options include roasted sweet potatoes, grilled portobello mushrooms, or sautéed seitan or jackfruit.
You can also use store-bought vegan “meats” or textured vegetable protein to create a meatless carnitas that’s just as flavorful and satisfying as the traditional version. Be sure to adjust the cooking time and method according to the ingredient you choose, and don’t be afraid to get creative with spices and seasonings to replicate the rich, savory flavor of traditional carnitas.