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My Carnitas Seasoning recipe goes beyond just carnitas; it's perfect for all your favorite pork dishes, chicken, and more! These six essential spices bring extraordinary flavor to any dish they're added to. It's ready in minutes and effortlessly stores in your spice cabinet!
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Flavorful Carnita Seasoning
My recipe for carnitas seasoning is a true game-changer, versatile enough for pork, chicken, beef, fish, tofu, and even fresh vegetables! It's about transforming everyday spices into a flavor fiesta for your taste buds. What's more, this blend is gluten-free.
What I love most about my homemade seasoning is its simplicity and speed. In just minutes (and a quick raid of your spice cabinet), you can whip up a blend that surpasses any store-bought variety in flavor. Store it in an airtight container that remains fresh for months – how convenient is that?
You may start with a single batch, but prepare to be tempted to make double or triple batches soon after—it's just that irresistible! I always have a large batch of this blend to season for tacos, burritos, and more. It's one of my go-to secrets for making everyday meals memorable!
What is Carnitas Seasoning Made Of?
- Ground Cumin: Cumin has an earthy and warm flavor that pairs well with other spices commonly used in Mexican cuisine. If you're out of cumin, you can use extra chili powder equal to half the amount needed, as chili powder typically includes cumin.
- Chili Powder: Chili powder is earthy and spicy. How spicy it is depends on the amount of chilies used to make it, so not all brands are the same! It adds a lot of body to the seasoning.
- Dried Oregano: Dried Oregano has a herby, somewhat bitter flavor. Mexican oregano is less bitter, but the flavor differs greatly from other kinds. You can try both!
- Garlic Powder: Powder is finer ground than granulated garlic, but if you only have granulated garlic, you can use that, too.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper is always my favorite, but any black pepper will do. Other peppercorns, like white pepper, will also work as a substitute. You can also leave it out entirely and add more chili powder.
- Salt: I prefer using Sea Salt Flakes in any seasoning mix. However, kosher salt also works very well. I recommend either over your typical table salt, which doesn't bring out flavor like other kinds.
How to Make Spices for Carnitas
- In a small bowl, combine ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- My carnitas seasoning blend can be used immediately to season pork, chicken, beef, or any protein of your choice, or you can store it in an airtight container in your pantry indefinitely.
Check out my full Pork Carnitas Recipe! This is an easy slow cooker recipe and favorite meal of mine, so I guarantee you'll love it! It uses orange juice as a citric acid component to the sauce that really brings out the flavors of this carnitas seasoning.
Carnitas Seasoning Tips
- Customize the Heat: Tailor the chili powder quantity to your liking for the perfect spice level.
- Marinating Time: For a richer flavor, marinate the seasoned meat for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add or substitute herbs like thyme or bay leaves, or additional spices like onion powder for varied flavors.
Seasonings for Carnitas FAQ
Yes, you can use this seasoning on a variety of meats including chicken and beef, as well as on vegetables for a flavorful twist!
Absolutely! Prepare the seasoning mix in advance and store it in an airtight jar or container. It's one less thing to think about when cooking! It will last up to 6 months with your other spices stored in a cool, dry place before it starts to lose its flavor.
This carnitas spice mix makes about 4 Tablespoons of seasoning. This is enough to coat a 3 pound pork shoulder.
I would recommend using a little over 1 Tablespoon of the seasoning per pound of meat, depending on how strong you want the flavor to be.
Storing Carnitas Spice
- Place any remaining carnitas seasoning in an airtight container, like a mason jar, to keep out moisture and preserve freshness.
- Store the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Don't forget to label the container with the seasoning name and the date it was made. Carnitas seasoning typically tastes best when used within 6 months.
What to Make with Carnitas
- Carnitas Burritos: Load up tortillas with carnitas and all your favorite burrito toppings like peppers, tomato, cheese, and avocado slices.
- Carnitas Nachos: Serve up tortilla chips with carnitas, melted cheese, jalapeños, and pico de gallo.
- Carnitas Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with a mix of carnitas, rice, and cheese, then bake until the peppers are tender! Great for my Stuffed Peppers Recipe.
- Carnitas Tacos: Fill flour tortillas with shredded pork, and top with diced red onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
- Carnitas Bowls: Toss carnitas on a bed of greens with avocado, corn, beans, and avocado crema.
- Carnitas Quesadillas: Sandwich carnitas and cheese between tortillas and grill for a crispy, melty treat. Serve with guacamole and sour cream.
Easy Seasoning Recipes
If you enjoyed the recipe, leave a comment and a rating below!
Carnitas Seasoning
Equipment
- Bowl for mixing
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 3 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
Instructions
- Simply combine ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl.2 teaspoons ground cumin,2 teaspoons chili powder,3 teaspoons dried oregano,2 teaspoons garlic powder,1 teaspoon black pepper,2 teaspoons salt
- My carnitas seasoning blend can be used immediately to season pork, chicken, beef, or any protein of your choice, or you can store it in an airtight container in your pantry indefinitely.
Notes
- Customize the Heat: Adjust chili powder to preferred spice level.
- Marinating Time: Marinate seasoned meat for at least 30 minutes or overnight for richer flavor.
- Experiment with Herbs: Add or substitute herbs like thyme or bay leaves and spices like onion powder for different flavors.
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