Introduction to Carnitas
Carnitas, a traditional Mexican dish, has a rich history that spans generations. This popular taco filling originated in the state of Michoacan, specifically in the small city of Quiroga, and has since spread throughout Mexico and beyond, including North Texas. The dish is steeped in tradition, with recipes often passed down from parents to children, and each family has its unique twist on the recipe.
The Tradition of Carnitas
Filiberto Gonzalez, a resident of Ferris, Texas, learned the art of making Michoacan-style carnitas from his father and grandfather. They not only taught him the technique but also shared their secret blend of ingredients. Gonzalez believes that the tradition of making carnitas is a never-ending one, and he continues to honor his family’s legacy by cooking the dish for social gatherings across Dallas-Fort Worth.
The Flavor of Carnitas
Carnitas is a pork dish that is braised in its own fat for several hours, resulting in a wide range of flavors depending on the region and the cook. Some people add orange juice, milk, Coca-Cola, or burnt sugar to their carnitas, while others, like Gonzalez, keep it simple with just meat, lard, and salt. The secret to a great carnitas lies in the seasoning, and each family has its own unique recipe.
Filiberto Gonzalez adds wood to a fire as he prepares carnitas on Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, in Ferris, Texas.
The Origins of Carnitas
Carnitas originated in the days of New Spain, when Europeans brought pigs to America. The small city of Quiroga, located in Michoacan, is considered the "world capital of carnitas" due to the large number of stalls where they are sold. From Michoacan, carnitas spread throughout the country, and it is now a common dish found in every city and town, often served in tacos with onion, cilantro, lime, and salsa.
Cooking Carnitas
When cooking carnitas, all parts of the pig can be used, including the ribs, loin, feet, ears, tongue, stomach, uterus, and liver. The meat is cooked along with lard and salt in a traditional copper cazo, which is brought to a boil and then left to simmer for at least three hours. Some people add additional ingredients, such as orange, garlic, onion, and herbs, during the stewing process, but Gonzalez and his family keep it simple with just salt.
Filiberto Gonzalez and Elva Gutierrez prepare carnitas on Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, in Ferris, Texas.
Eating Carnitas
In Mexico, carnitas tacos are traditionally eaten at lunchtime because they are one of the heaviest dishes for the stomach. A classic carnitas taco consists of a tortilla and meat, and you can add avocado, onion, cilantro, and salsa. In Michoacan, it is traditional to eat carnitas with pickled jalapeños. Carnitas is also a family staple on Sundays throughout the country, and it’s typical to buy them by the kilo and take them home to enjoy at family gatherings.
Conclusion
Carnitas is a delicious and traditional Mexican dish that has a rich history and cultural significance. From its origins in Michoacan to its spread throughout Mexico and beyond, carnitas remains a beloved dish that is often served at special occasions and family gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or like to add your own twist, carnitas is a dish that is sure to please.
FAQs
Q: What is carnitas?
A: Carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish made from pork that is braised in its own fat for several hours.
Q: Where did carnitas originate?
A: Carnitas originated in the state of Michoacan, specifically in the small city of Quiroga.
Q: What is the traditional way of cooking carnitas?
A: The traditional way of cooking carnitas is in a copper cazo with lard and salt, brought to a boil and then left to simmer for at least three hours.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to my carnitas?
A: Yes, some people add orange juice, milk, Coca-Cola, or burnt sugar to their carnitas, while others keep it simple with just salt.
Q: How do I eat carnitas?
A: Carnitas is typically eaten in tacos with onion, cilantro, lime, and salsa, and can also be served with pickled jalapeños or other toppings.
Q: Is carnitas a common dish in Mexico?
A: Yes, carnitas is a common dish found in every city and town in Mexico, and is often served at special occasions and family gatherings.
Q: Can I make carnitas at home?
A: Yes, you can make carnitas at home using a traditional recipe or by adding your own twist to the dish.
Q: Where can I find carnitas in North Texas?
A: You can find carnitas in many Mexican restaurants and markets in North Texas, or you can try making it at home using a traditional recipe.
