Crispy Carnitas Chilaquiles: A Perfect Mexican Harmony

Carnitas ChilaquilesPhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Carnitas Chilaquiles is a mouthwatering Mexican dish that combines crispy tortilla chips, flavorful pork carnitas, and a zesty tomatillo sauce.

Get the Recipe Details: Carnitas Chilaquiles

Ingredients

• For the Carnitas:
• • 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1 cup chicken broth
• For the Chilaquiles:
• • 1 package (12 oz) tortilla chips (preferably thick-cut)
  • 2 cups tomatillo salsa (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or queso fresco
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 2 avocados, sliced
  • 4 eggs (optional, for topping)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Carnitas:
2. • In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the pork shoulder chunks and sear on all sides until browned about 8-10 minutes.
   • Add the quartered onion, smashed garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
   • Pour in the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth.
   • Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreddable.
   • Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
3. Prepare the Chilaquiles:
4. • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the tortilla chips with the tomatillo salsa, ensuring the chips are evenly coated.
   • Spread half of the coated tortilla chips in a large baking dish.
   • Top with half of the shredded carnitas and half of the shredded cheese.
   • Add the remaining tortilla chips on top, followed by the rest of the carnitas and cheese.
5. Bake the Chilaquiles:
6. • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Optional: Cook the Eggs:
8. • While the chilaquiles are baking, cook the eggs to your preference (sunny-side-up, over-easy, or scrambled) if using.
9. Serve:
10. • Remove the chilaquiles from the oven and let them cool slightly.
    • Top with dollops of sour cream, chopped cilantro, chopped red onion, and avocado slices.
    • If using eggs, place them on top of the chilaquiles.
    • Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Carnitas Chilaquiles is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the best of Mexican cuisine. The tender pork carnitas, crispy tortilla chips, and zesty tomatillo sauce create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Enjoy this delightful dish with your family and friends for a truly memorable meal!