Carnitas

There simply aren't words for this recipe.  I have always loved the carnitas at Pancheros. There is just something about the flavor that keeps me coming back. So of course I wanted, needed to replicate it.  I'm not certain that the flavor is the same, but WOW!  This is a killer recipe.

What you will need:  2-3lb pork butt, arm or shoulder, cumin, kosher salt, 6 garlic cloves, 1 lime, 2 cans of beef broth, 1 jalapeno, chili powder, paprika

In a small bowl mix the salt and cumin together. I probably used 4 tbsp of each.  Rinse off your pork butt and pat dry with paper towels.  Rub the pork all over with the salt/cumin mix.  You gotta get your hands dirty so get in there and do it!  Place the pork in a large Crock pot.  Squeeze the juice from the lime over top.  Place 6 whole garlic cloves around the pork. and pour one can of beef broth around and over the pork.  Cook on low for 6 hours.  After the 6 hours take the pork out to shred. It should fall apart fairly easy. I used two forks and pulled it apart.

shredded pork



Add a palmful of chili powder and paprika (to taste). Continue to cook the pork on low heat for another 2-4 hours.  Use the second can of broth and add as needed.  You do not want the meat to dry out so make sure there is enough liquid.  At this time, slice the jalapeno into small pieces.  Add the jalapeno with seeds and ribs to the pork. Stir well.

Serve by itself, on tortillas with your favorite taco toppings or with guacamole.
If you don't like spice omit the jalapeno, but I really feel it's the secret ingredient!

Served on a tortilla with a side of salsa, sour cream, and cheese

Good Guacamole

What you will need: 2 Avocados, 2 small tomatoes, half a red onion, 1 lime, salt and pepper

In a bowl combine avocados (cut in chunks), tomatoes (diced), onion (chopped).  Add a teaspoon of salt and a bit of pepper.  While stirring, the avocado will break down a bit; this is okay.  Roll the lime against your palm and counter top to get the juices flowing.  Cut in half and squirt half of the lime juice in the guacamole. Add a little more salt and stir. The avocado will start breaking down a bit more.  Continue to add lime juice and salt to taste. Serve with tortilla chips.