Classic Pork Carnitas Tostadas

Highlighted under: Flavors Around the World

Enjoy a delicious and authentic taste of Mexico with these Classic Pork Carnitas Tostadas, perfect for gatherings or a family meal.

Ethan

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:29:50.931Z

These Classic Pork Carnitas Tostadas are a celebration of flavor and texture. The slow-cooked pork is tender and flavorful, served on crispy tostadas with fresh toppings. Ideal for any occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Tender, flavorful pork that melts in your mouth
  • Crispy tostadas add a satisfying crunch
  • Versatile toppings allow for creativity and personalization

A Taste of Authenticity

When it comes to Mexican cuisine, few dishes can rival the rich, savory flavors of carnitas. This recipe brings together traditional cooking methods and fresh ingredients to create a meal that transports you straight to the heart of Mexico. The slow-cooked pork shoulder absorbs a medley of spices and citrus, resulting in a dish that's not just food, but a celebration of flavors that resonate with every bite.

Tostadas serve as the perfect canvas for this delightful carnitas. Their crispy texture provides a satisfying crunch that complements the tender pork beautifully. Whether you're hosting a fiesta or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, these tostadas are sure to impress. They offer an authentic taste experience that is both comforting and exciting.

Versatile Toppings for Every Taste

One of the best aspects of carnitas tostadas is their versatility. You can customize each tostada with an array of toppings, allowing everyone at the table to create their perfect bite. From fresh avocado slices to zesty pickled onions, the possibilities are endless. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing, turning each plate into a colorful masterpiece.

Additionally, you can cater to dietary preferences and restrictions with ease. Whether you want to add beans for a protein boost, or some spicy salsa for an extra kick, these tostadas can adapt to any palate. This flexibility makes them a hit for gatherings, ensuring that all your guests leave satisfied.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Carnitas tostadas are not just a meal; they are an experience to be shared. Ideal for casual family dinners or festive gatherings, they bring people together around the table. The process of assembling your own tostadas adds an interactive element to mealtime, making it fun for both adults and children alike.

Moreover, these tostadas are great for meal prep. You can cook the carnitas ahead of time and have everything ready for a quick assembly on busy weeknights. This makes it easy to enjoy a homemade meal without the stress of last-minute cooking. With this recipe in your repertoire, you'll always have a go-to option for satisfying, delicious food.

Ingredients

For the Carnitas

  • 2 pounds pork shoulder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 orange

For the Tostadas

  • 8 corn tortillas
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Gather all the ingredients to make your tostadas delightful!

Instructions

Cook the Pork

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the pork shoulder and sear on all sides until browned.

Add the onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper, chicken broth, and orange juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and shreds easily.

Prepare the Tostadas

While the pork is cooking, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the corn tortillas one at a time until crispy, about 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Tostadas

Once the pork is done, shred it with two forks. Top each crispy tortilla with a generous amount of carnitas, followed by lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and queso fresco. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious tostadas!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover carnitas, you're in luck! The slow-cooked pork can be refrigerated for up to four days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Simply store the shredded meat in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and moisture. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the carnitas. Portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, and they'll keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement your classic pork carnitas tostadas, consider serving a refreshing Mexican slaw on the side. The crunchy vegetables and zesty dressing will enhance the flavors of the pork while adding a vibrant touch to your meal. Alternatively, a side of black beans or refried beans can provide a hearty complement that balances the crispy tostadas.

For beverages, a light Mexican beer or a classic margarita pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, consider a refreshing agua fresca made with fruits like watermelon or lime. These pairings create a complete dining experience that will transport your guests to Mexico with every bite and sip.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the carnitas ahead of time?

Yes, the carnitas can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I substitute for pork shoulder?

You can use pork butt or even chicken thighs for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I bake the tostadas instead of frying them?

Yes, brush the tortillas with a little oil and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.

Classic Pork Carnitas Tostadas

Enjoy a delicious and authentic taste of Mexico with these Classic Pork Carnitas Tostadas, perfect for gatherings or a family meal.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration2 hours
Overall Time2 hours 20 minutes

Created by: Ethan

Recipe Type: Flavors Around the World

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Carnitas

  1. 2 pounds pork shoulder
  2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  3. 1 onion, quartered
  4. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 teaspoon cumin
  6. 1 teaspoon oregano
  7. 1 teaspoon chili powder
  8. Salt and pepper to taste
  9. 1 cup chicken broth
  10. Juice of 1 orange

For the Tostadas

  1. 8 corn tortillas
  2. Vegetable oil for frying
  3. 1 cup shredded lettuce
  4. 1 cup diced tomatoes
  5. 1 avocado, sliced
  6. 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
  7. Fresh cilantro for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the pork shoulder and sear on all sides until browned.

Add the onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper, chicken broth, and orange juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and shreds easily.

Step 02

While the pork is cooking, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the corn tortillas one at a time until crispy, about 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Step 03

Once the pork is done, shred it with two forks. Top each crispy tortilla with a generous amount of carnitas, followed by lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and queso fresco. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 20g