Native American-inspired Slow-cooked Pork Carnitas

Ingredients

In this Native American-inspired adaptation of Carnitas, the traditional pork is replaced with bison meat, which adds a distinct flavor and texture to the dish. Additionally, the spices used in this recipe are tailored to Native American cuisine, incorporating smoky flavors and aromatic spices commonly found in Native American cooking. The inclusion of traditional Native American ingredients, such as wild rice and corn, further distinguishes this dish from its Mexican counterpart. We alse have the original recipe for Carnitas, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) bison meat, cubed 2 pounds (900g) bison meat, cubed
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika
• 1 teaspoon (5g) chili powder 1 teaspoon (5g) chili powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper
• 1 cup (185g) wild rice 1 cup (185g) wild rice
• 1 cup (150g) corn kernels 1 cup (150g) corn kernels
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the cubed bison meat to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, combine the cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the bison meat, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4. 4.
   Transfer the seasoned bison meat to a slow cooker. Add the wild rice, corn kernels, and vegetable broth to the slow cooker, and stir to combine.
5. 5.
   Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the bison meat is tender and easily shreds.
6. 6.
   Once cooked, use two forks to shred the bison meat into smaller pieces.
7. 7.
   Serve the Native American-inspired Slow-cooked Pork Carnitas on a bed of wild rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bison meat — Bison meat is leaner than pork, so it's important to cook it slowly to ensure tenderness. The slow cooker method works best for this recipe.
• Wild rice — Rinse the wild rice thoroughly before using to remove any debris. Cook it separately according to package instructions and add it to the slow cooker when it's fully cooked.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can add a small amount of liquid smoke to the slow cooker.
• If bison meat is not available, you can substitute it with lean beef or venison.
• Serve the Native American-inspired Slow-cooked Pork Carnitas with warm tortillas and traditional Native American fry bread for a complete meal.
• Leftover carnitas can be used in tacos, burritos, or quesadillas for a delicious next-day meal.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by adding more or less chili powder.

Serving advice

Serve the Native American-inspired Slow-cooked Pork Carnitas on a bed of wild rice, garnished with fresh cilantro. Accompany it with warm tortillas, Native American fry bread, and a side of salsa or guacamole.

Presentation advice

Arrange the shredded bison meat on a platter, surrounded by a ring of wild rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. Serve with warm tortillas and Native American fry bread on the side.