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Carnitas Meal Prep Bowls

Delicious Carnitas Meal Prep Bowls for Easy Weeknight Wins

These Carnitas Meal Prep Bowls bring flavorful comfort for busy weekdays.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Pressure Release Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: High Protein Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Carnitas
  • 3 lbs pork shoulder (Boston butt) Ideal for tenderness and flavor
  • 1 cup orange juice Fresh and zesty
  • ½ cup lime juice Brightens the dish
  • 2 tablespoon chili powder Adds warmth and heat
  • 2 teaspoon cumin Smoky, earthy flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Subtle garlic flavor
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Sweetness and depth
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper Adds spice
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper Adds heat
For the Salsa
  • 1 cup sweet peppers, roasted Sweet and smoky flavor
  • 1 cup tomatoes, diced Juicy brightness
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced Refreshing crunch
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped Burst of freshness

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Cut the pork shoulder into 2-inch cubes and place in the Instant Pot.
  2. Mix orange juice, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne in a bowl; pour over pork.
  3. Lock the lid and set to high pressure for 60 minutes.
  4. Let the Instant Pot naturally release for 10 minutes, then switch to quick release.
  5. Shred the pork in a bowl using two forks.
  6. Spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5–7 minutes for a crispy finish.
  7. Combine roasted sweet peppers, diced tomatoes, cucumber, and cilantro in a bowl for the salsa.
  8. Serve the crispy carnitas over rice or tortillas, topped with salsa.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store components separately for freshness. Broil pork until crispy for texture. Experiment with salsa ingredients for variety.

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