Carnitas - My Fav Taco!

Carnitas, AKA "little meats", is a Mexican dish that originated in the state of Michoacán. Carnitas are made by braising or simmering pork lard until tender, then slightly pulled and crisped. The result is juicy, yet crispy. Carnitas are one of my favorite tacos of all time traditionally served on fresh corn tortillas with cilantro and onions.
Bonus Ranch Water recipe included in this video - Ranch water is a classic Texas cocktail. Making this in a Topo Chico bottle is a fun way to make this drink portable. It's only 3 ingredients and has been cooling off Cowboys for years. Cheers, y'all!
Carnitas Recipe: www.meatchurch.com/blogs/reci...
Ranch Water recipe: www.meatchurch.com/blogs/reci...
Meat Church BBQ Supplies: www.meatchurch.com
Butcher Block - Rosewood Block: www.rosewoodblock.com
Thermapen IR thermometer: bit.ly/MCThermapen
Knives: www.montanaknifecompany.com/
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About Meat Church BBQ:
Welcome to the official Meat Church BBQ KZbin channel! Meat Church is a global lifestyle BBQ brand and has one of the largest social media reaches in the world of outdoor cooking. The unique brand offers some of the most popular craft BBQ seasonings, apparel, recipe development & live fire cooking instruction around the world. Matt Pittman is the pitmaster and the founder of Meat Church BBQ. He is an expert and respected authority on outdoor cooking. Students travel from around the world to attend BBQ schools in his private outdoor kitchen. Make sure to subscribe and enable ALL notifications!
#MeatChurchBBQ​ #Carnitas

[@gregvaughntx]

They say there's two types of Texans: those who were born here, and those who got here as soon as they could. As a member of the first group, I salute you. I particularly love that you called it "comino". I was in college before I learned that "cumin" meant the same thing as "comino".

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks for being here Greg!

[@kikiperaza4707]

As a Mexican, I can tell you, those carnitas look authentic. Keep preaching Matt, love your stuff. Saludos.

[@gators4592]

as not a Mexican, thank you for approving so I can make the authentic way from here lol

[@86HellCat831]

Lol you’re not really Mexican then…

[@zero_udk]

​@@gators4592 I don't get it either

[@jackrodosta7971]

Just made this today, 😊 absolutely fantastic. The only thing I did slightly different was, after I cubed and seasoned, I smoked my pork for 4 hours before I brazed. Wow, awesome recipe. Thanks, Matt.

[@CHS0926]

Matt- these are easily the best tacos I’ve ever made. Made these for my Moms birthday/the Derby yesterday and they were an absolute hit. Can’t thank you enough for these videos. 🤙🏻🤙🏻

[@recordman555]

Whether it's a Mexican restaurant, or a food truck, carnitas is always my go-to Mexican dish! Love your take on this delicious dish!

[@rockyroad8561]

I’ve just recently got into bbq, and your recipes have made me famous, this one will just be another one of my go to for taco nights.

[@sixmanfootball]

Tacos! Another awesome looking taco that I've gotta try for taco Tuesday! Hard to imagine these being better than the Birria or Barbacoa tacos though. I also must say, I'm super glad I stumbled upon your videos. Because of you I bought a new Traeger a few weeks ago, made a trip to Waxahachie for supplies, and have been really loving cooking outside again. Thank you! I hope you never stop doing this.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Those 3 are all good.

[@user-qd2hd2kr4f]

Looks super good, can't wait to make them. thanks for sharing your techniques and secrets

[@fabian7463]

As a Mexican, it doesn't matter what race you are,authentic food is legitimate... I'm not a Texan, but when I make smoked food, people seem to enjoy it lol

[@Keith80027]

I love carnitas after growing up in NM in the 50's and 60's. Lots of hispanic moms would cook this for lunch. Love it!

[@bobsmith8857]

Really don't comment much on recipes, but this one the whole family loved. They always give me a hard time because I like to smoke things on the weekend. Made these, following the directions and they were phenomenal! I did use some hot sauce on mine. But everyone loved them. Only thing I forgot...The Ranch water! Will work this into rotation of Taco Tuesdays

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thank you so much for commenting and letting me know Bob. Means the world to me. Thanks for being here!! -Matt

[@wjstang]

Did this yesterday! Knocked it of the park with these tacos. All loved them with my wife growing up in the valley and an army buddy from Azusa some of the best carnitas they’ve had ever. Used Cheerwine instead of Coke because that’s what I had in the house. The tortillas dipped in lard and then heated is also a keeper. Well done. Thank you for your videos.

[@chavee70]

The last batch of carnitas I made, I changed up the pork cuts. I used pork shoulder, pork ribs, and pork belly. This was the best batch of all and is now my go to method for carnitas. I will try smoking the next batch and see how that works. All of the different textures and depth from the rib bones and belly to me is closer to the ol school way.

[@jonathanrey000]

Onion, cilantro, chopped Serrano and fresh lime juice is my preference. But yes, carnitas are my personal favorite tacos to make also. Very underrated.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

So good!

[@RARufus]

For me it’s gotta be onion, cilantro and jalapeños. If I’m feeling randy, maybe habaneros instead.

[@grillmaster07]

Man, I seen every way you can make carnitas. I've seen it in person from old Mexican ladies. Dude! You frickin nailed it better than I ever saw! I see why they are the best you have ever done! You rock man! Awesome job! I just wish I could have tried one. I think I can actually taste it because I know your seasoning! Thanks for the inspiration!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

I sincerely appreciate that!

[@martinolson761]

Looks absolutely delicious!!!

[@FreeBird614Two]

Looks fantastic, this is one of my favorite episodes. Have made carnitas a few different ways, have never added smoke or the crisping so that is definitely worth a try.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks Chris. This is one of my fav things we have made.

[@jeremyatkinson7458]

This is the Carnitas recipe I've been waiting for my whole life. I just made it this last weekend and it was a HUGE hit. Thanks Matt!

[@knoxparkfilms-weddingfilmm6920]

I've made Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos, Beef Rib Tacos and it was so delicious. I can't wait to make this!!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Love that. Hope you enjoy!

[@bobbyt7448]

The vid starting with Hallelujah is fitting for Carnita, its a gift from God. Praise 👏

[@bashulto]

Wow, greetings from México. You took a great recipe to a whole new level!! Cant wait to try it!

[@cottonclark897]

An awesome recipe! I'm in San Antonio, and we kinda pride ourselves on TexMex dishes. Let's just say, "I ain't made about this recipe!" 🤣 And Matt's comment about cilantro, PERFECT! I, too, feel sorry for the doubters. I'd say this recipe is next up in my Outdoor Cocina. Thanks, Matt! 👍

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thank you!

[@williambroadway7681]

All your recipes are awesome

[@PSSKDerby]

Great video Matt! That cook on the pork looks so deliciously juicy. Makes me want to try something new and that’s awesome. Thanks for sharing.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Love it. Enjoy!

[@ciaraperry3917]

Great video, Matt! Carnitas are one of my favorites! Will definitely have to try out your recipe on my Traeger!

[@josegallegos6344]

Michoacán is the capital of Carnitas! Obviously there is a super traditional way like you said but still looked good! Any type of carnitas is always good 👍🏽

[@1990westfalia]

This would be a great NHL Playoff viewing party entrée while watching the Wild and the Stars play and get closer to Cinco de Mayo. GO Wild. Skillet

[@VillanuevaMedia]

Carnitas are my favorite usually have them on the weekends

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks Raul!

[@SirPartyRoc]

I woke up excited for a Wednesday Meat Church video drop!! Carnitas is a family fave. I've done this similar cook with beef shank as well. Pair this with a good crema and everyone is licking their fingers when its all done. Thanks for making this simple for us backyard chefs to follow along.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Love it Victor!

[@jaredandrews379]

Definitely going to try them! Thanks for sharing

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

You are welcome Jared.

[@pocketdimes1048]

I’m from San Diego California. I approve this. Slightly different than I’m used to but I am absolutely gonna try your way. Looks amazing.

[@benholdin]

daygo got better tacos than tj....fax

[@rongarrison6653]

Just made these carnitas today! Turned out delicious and so tender! No on got mad at them! Thanks!

[@ptkoms]

The Mexican Pulled Pork was awesome - made it on my Traegar and it was a HUGE hit!!! it's no our favourite pulled pork, also I love the De Da la Fajita rub!!!

[@KiNg0fShReD]

I’ve always wanted to try and make Carnitas, i’m hyped! 🙌🏽

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Do it!

[@denhaire]

Great technique. Been trying to find something like this. Thank you.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks Dennis!

[@narbekalantarians6269]

One of the best tacos around. The bbq smoke element is clutch

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks Narbe!

[@txbluzmn]

Looking forward to adapting this to my Lone Star Grillz Pellet Smoker!! Thanks for all the recipes, Matt!!!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Enjoy!!!

[@stevegrieb6596]

Gotta try this. One of the things I love about your channel is you keep it real. Thank you for not posting your favorite recipe for Vegan Quiche Lorraine. Also, I appreciate your support of Texas businesses. Yeah, I saw that bottle of Bolners. Very fine channel. I recently did the Bowl of Red recipe and it was excellent.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

I appreciate that feedback Steve.

[@miahyde5772]

The smells coming out of the kitchen this morning are unreal. We made a smoked tomatillo salsa to drizzle on the tacos. Thanks for this winner of a recipe.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Yessssss!!!!!!!❤

[@alacharger]

I love carnitas! I will be trying this recipe soon.

[@nb857]

Outstanding!! You gave me my cook for this weekend.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

That makes me happy.

[@MrPurexed]

Well... I was going to make the Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos this weekend for a party. NOW I'm making these Carnitas! Thanks for the new recipe!!!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Enjoy!

[@heyzuesvasquez4296]

My old man used to make these over an open fire with some oak. The smoke really used to make a big difference. There were a few missed key ingredients but you did a great job.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

What would you add?

[@k20fa5]

Those look amazing Matt! I've got to try these out!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks Brian!

[@robertmullen5211]

Made this for the fam tonight. Have done carnitas before but slightly different. Big hit with everyone, great recipe!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks for the feedback, Robert!

[@righteyeartistry156]

Smoked is the way to go. It just adds that wow factor.

[@captjim97]

Looks fantastic !!! I love how you make your Ranch Water in the bottle !!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks. It's a fun drink that way.

[@coreybatorski9626]

Looks so good

[@HarleyRider1]

Great teaching looks awesome

[@dvsmike]

Just wanted to say i did your spareribs with pepper as the first layer and holy cow for the 2nd, smoked on a pit boss 1150 for 5 1/2 hrs, spritzed with apple cider vinegar, whiskey, and honey for the last hr and rested in jack daniels sweet and spicy bbq sauce and it came out phenomenal! That pepper layer first with holy cow after, provided a great bark and crunch. Thank you!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

KILLER!!!!

[@dancarter5484]

Gave it a try this morning. It was off the hook delicious! Only add was a bit of Cotija cheese.

[@ryanseymour8908]

Kids are watching with me again, 7year old daughter tells me “daddy you HAVE to make this.” Thanks for keeping my kids hungry! *Ditto on the cilantro

[@theolsons967]

Making me hungry. Awesome recipe

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thank you!

[@themaddscot]

So doing this... been wanting to do a taco "prep your own" cook for a while and this is now added to the meat selections.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Awesome, Bob!

[@SterlingCreekProps]

Looks incredible! 👍🏼

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks John!

[@arnoldmorales9189]

Rio Grande Valley here! Love your content Matt. This is one recipe I will try with my smoker.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thank you Arnold!

[@poogan1239]

Bay leaves..LOL..to this day I have NO idea what they add..My mother would add them into the Cuban dished she'd make and a few others and I would always complain that it would always end up on my plate or me crunching on it, even after she said she picked them all out...I always smile when I see them added.

[@leeg45691]

Dang Matt those tacos look amazing! This is next on my list of backyard cooks! Oh and cilantro rocks!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Enjoy Bruce. Thanks for being here.

[@TWC6724]

I have been waiting for this one!!! I judge a tex mex joint based on carnitas. I absolutely love them!! This video is going in my favorites list.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

LOVE IT

[@billystpaul8907]

Out standing video Matt. 2 things I have not seen before. cooking the taco shells in oil. And making your lunch drink. And, you are right about only onions and cilantro with the Carnitas..

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Yessir!

[@eh2bseries]

Appreciate you shouting out the local joints.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Yessir. Small business makes the world go around.

[@jdelaney9325]

I just discovered Cilantro and Onions in the last year on grilled chicken tacos. Good stuff.

[@dalejames9216]

I made these for gringo de mayo, they were freaking awesome! Thank you!!

[@GT2ENVY1]

The recipe is on point! 🔥🔥🔥

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thank you!!

[@johnkowlok3231]

Holy hell! This may be the most amazing recipe on KZbin. I mean, yeah, it’s not “traditional” but a pretty darn good spin, and very doable. How many folks have a copper vat lying around that aren’t making moonshine? I can’t wait to try this. I have been trying to make carnitas using pork shoulder in my Insta-pot, and broiling in the oven to finish with mediocre success. This recipe seems like a much better solution. I am conflicted between having the fresh white onion and cilantro, or a pickled red onion with avocado chunks.

[@randysiler7458]

I have not eaten any carnitas in a long time. Just came across you channel. Will be watching 👍👍

[@dannymartinez9434]

I absolutely love my carnitas but i can always take away something from what others do, looks delicious!

[@wesray603]

I like them all. Now I have to MAKE them!

[@ronkeys1712]

lol Matt I love your videos, attitude and the intro and outro music keep it coming!

[@78LedHead]

Bro, those are next level. You're one of the best food channels on YT.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thank you so much!!! -Matt

[@curtiskauffman]

Finally got my first round of seasoning at my local ace here in Wheaton IL thanks for the great products. I started with holy voodoo holy cow and dia de La fajita.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Enjoy!

[@blairphelps7215]

I'd enjoy seeing how you clean everything after, like your dutch oven and flat top.

[@ryanborasz2949]

I have a Blackstone that I used at the end to crisp it up and that worked great

[@grillingaddictionwithnick4982]

You nailed it brother ! I will be doing this soon! Gonna be doing goat meat empanadas 🔥soon as well !

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

DAMN those sounds good. I love cabrito.

[@jordanhansen973]

Don’t ever stop making vids. Awesome dude.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks Jordan!

[@kimberlyvaughan3430]

Love your show 😊

[@stevemaynor2624]

That's dinner Sunday. Love it Matt thank you

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

AWESOME!!!!

[@walterkopriva9735]

Sitting here at 2:30 in the morning unable to sleep and really wishing i had a couple three of those for sure!

[@johnkowlok3231]

Holy moly that looks so good! I like red pickled onion and guacamole on carnitas tacos 🌮

[@devaultc]

Loved this one!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks Chris!

[@quantummechanic59]

Love me some Carnitas. Gotta try that. BTW just tried your Texas Sugar 4-5 weeks ago. I put that stuff on everything now. My new Fav!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks Gary!!!

[@eddieramirez009]

Great video Matt! Showing love from the RGV! Weslaco Texas!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks Eddie!

[@kiltlifter3988]

I just found a new use for my pork fat trimmings. Thanks for the nudge!

[@michaelholder7358]

Some reason, I'm now craving carnitas:-) Thanks Matt

[@jasonhollinger9513]

My favorite taco as well. You could make up a bunch of it to eat throughout the week…except that my family loves tacos too much to have leftovers. Lol…. They will definitely love this recipe.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Love that.

[@mikegrayable]

Bang’N recipe!!! Thank you I’ll be replicating this.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Awesome!

[@joeyravary744]

Hey man. You have a happy new follower here. Your videos are therapeutic for me. I love texas with all my heart and i really like what you stand for. Meat, Church, And Barbeque can we add beer?? lets get the merch mrolling i wanna t-shirt ! keep it up ! thank you and cheers !

[@SnipetsofTime]

Bruh Ur an honorary mexican. Mexico would love ur cooking

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thank you Ignacio. That means a lot!

[@Bau3boys]

Just made this, came out amazing. My picky kids devoured every scrap of pork. Thanks for the video.

[@gordsmith7708]

Thay look yummy man !! Something else for me to try on the traeger. Cheers man. 🍻

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Enjoy Gord!

[@leoverran311]

Pickled onions could work well, that’s fantastic looking dish

[@russbriscoe]

Excellent as alway, it’s going in the recipe book. Please make videos on making great salsas/hot sauce.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

My salsa video is on this channel. www.meatchurch.com/blogs/recipes/smoked-salsa

[@jamesblair5971]

Perfection love carnitas will be trying this!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Enjoy, James!

[@Tracker102]

I got the fajita spice from Meat Church, and toss it on all my veggies before grilling. I love this company, this channel, Matt is tight. I'm about that life.

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

That is our veggie rub here too. Thanks David!

[@Loveus00]

OMG I love this.

[@robertbernal3180]

Looks very delicious. Those are real Tacos. I would just put some homemade salsa with them. Great recipe 👍🏽

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Thanks Robert! Watch the very end in the wrap up I use falsa salsa.

[@robertbernal3180]

Yes I went back and saw that you used a salsa.👍. Awesome

[@josepha5835]

Your videos are always on point! Would love to see you come out and visit Australia soon, maybe run a class here?

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

I turned down Meatstock back in March due to it interfering with family vaca. Soon!

[@geoffgraham-ps9cr]

Doing this for dinner tomorrow looks so good

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

Enjoy Geoff!

[@petermyers479]

Dude, cooking styles are regional, not ethnic necessarily. The world has gotten to be a much smaller place. I love watching you create beautiful southwestern style Texican foods. Keep it coming. Never apologize.

[@wfodavid]

Ahhhhhh Grandfather's Carnitas........I think you nailed it!

[@MeatChurchBBQ]

THANK YOU!!