### How to Make Delicious Carnitas Pressure Cooker: A Step-by-Step Guide
**Carnitas**, a traditional Mexican dish made from slow-cooked pork that becomes tender and succulent, can now be prepared in just hours using your pressure cooker! This method ensures the meat is perfectly caramelized with minimal effort. Here’s how to make carnitas using a pressure cooker.
#### Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg (3 lbs) boneless pork shoulder or butt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt to taste
#### Equipment:
- Pressure cooker with a lid and steam release valve
- Large pot or Dutch oven for searing (optional)
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Pork:**
- Rinse the pork shoulder under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels.
- Place the pork in a large pot or Dutch oven and heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. **Sear the Meat:**
- Once hot, add the pork to the pot and sear on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side. This step is optional but recommended for better flavor.
- Transfer the seared pork to a plate and set aside.
3. **Make the Seasoning Mixture:**
- In the same pot used for searing, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the quartered onion and cook for another 5 minutes until translucent.
4. **Combine Ingredients in Pressure Cooker:**
- Place the browned pork back into the pressure cooker along with the garlic, onion, bay leaves, dried oregano, and enough water to cover.
- Season with salt as desired.
5. **Cooking Process:**
- Secure the lid of your pressure cooker and lock it in place.
- Set the pressure cooker on high heat until it reaches full pressure (usually takes 2-3 minutes).
- Once at pressure, reduce the heat to low and cook for 40 minutes.
- After cooking time, release any remaining pressure naturally by letting the steam vent for about 15 minutes.
6. **Shred the Pork:**
- Remove the pork from the cooker and let it cool slightly.
- Shred the meat using two forks, removing any excess fat or gristle.
7. **Finish and Serve:**
- Return the shredded pork to the pressure cooker or a large skillet if needed, add some of the cooking liquid, and simmer over low heat for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced avocado.
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By following these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy authentic carnitas in your kitchen using the convenience of a pressure cooker. Enjoy!