Introduction

Pork Carnitas Burrito Bowls with Cilantro Rice are a flavorful, satisfying, and customizable Mexican-inspired dish. Tender, slow-cooked pork carnitas are paired with fragrant cilantro-lime rice, black beans, fresh vegetables, and a variety of toppings, creating a bowl bursting with textures and flavors.

This dish takes inspiration from traditional Mexican carnitas, where pork is slow-cooked until tender and then crisped for a deliciously caramelized exterior. Served in a bowl instead of a tortilla, it’s a lighter yet equally indulgent way to enjoy all the classic flavors of a burrito without wrapping it up.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines bold, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite. The slow-cooked pork melts in your mouth while the cilantro-lime rice provides a bright, fragrant base. Toppings like avocado, pico de gallo, and sour cream add freshness and creaminess, creating the perfect balance.

It’s versatile, colorful, and satisfying, making it ideal for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings. Every bite is a mix of textures and flavors, making it a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it offers the authentic taste of Mexican carnitas in a convenient bowl format. It’s perfect for people who love bold flavors, crave tender, juicy pork, and enjoy assembling their own bowls with fresh toppings.

It’s also highly adaptable, allowing you to make it as healthy or indulgent as you like, and it’s perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (slow-cooked for tenderness)
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~600–650
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

For the Pork Carnitas:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder (cut into large chunks)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ cup orange juice
• ¼ cup lime juice
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 bay leaf

For the Cilantro Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste

Optional Bowl Toppings:

• Black beans (cooked or canned)
• Corn kernels
• Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
• Diced avocado or guacamole
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Shredded cheese
• Sliced jalapeños
• Lime wedges

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

1. Prepare the Pork Carnitas
   • Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) or prepare a slow cooker.
   • Rub pork chunks with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder.
   • Place pork in a roasting pan or slow cooker. Add orange juice, lime juice, onion, garlic, and bay leaf.
2. Cook the Pork
   • Oven Method: Cover with foil and bake for 1.5 hours, until tender.
   • Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 6–7 hours or until pork is tender.
3. Shred and Crisp the Pork
   • Remove pork from pan and shred with two forks.
   • Optional: For crispy edges, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5–7 minutes until slightly browned and crispy.
4. Prepare the Cilantro Rice
   • Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.
   • Combine rice and water (or broth) in a saucepan; bring to a boil.
   • Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15–18 minutes until rice is cooked.
   • Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, then stir in cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and salt to taste.
5. Assemble the Burrito Bowls
   • Divide cilantro rice among 4 bowls.
   • Top with shredded pork carnitas, black beans, corn, tomatoes, avocado, and any other desired toppings.
   • Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve immediately for the best freshness.
• Let each person customize their bowl with toppings.
• Pair with a side of tortilla chips or a light salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Marinate pork in citrus juice overnight for extra flavor.
• Use chicken broth for cooking rice to enhance flavor.
• Crisping the shredded pork adds texture and elevates the dish.
• Adjust spice level with jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Keep toppings separate if prepping ahead to maintain freshness.

Variations

• Chicken Carnitas Bowls: Substitute pork with shredded chicken breast or thighs.
• Vegetarian Version: Use roasted cauliflower or jackfruit in place of pork.
• Brown Rice Option: Use brown rice for a higher fiber, nutty variation.
• Tex-Mex Style: Add sautéed peppers and onions to the rice for extra flavor.
• Chipotle Carnitas: Mix shredded pork with chipotle in adobo sauce for smoky heat.

Freezing & Storage

• Cooked Pork Carnitas: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Cilantro Rice: Best fresh; can refrigerate up to 3 days, but add fresh cilantro before serving.
• Assembled Bowls: Store components separately for meal prep; combine just before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker or oven-safe roasting pan
• Saucepan for rice
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Forks for shredding pork

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cook the pork and rice ahead. Assemble bowls fresh before serving.

Q2: Can I use leftover pork?
Absolutely! Shredded cooked pork works perfectly for these bowls.

Q3: Can I make it spicier?
Yes, add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili powder to the pork or toppings.

Q4: Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
Yes, cooked quinoa is a great healthy alternative.

Q5: How do I keep toppings fresh for meal prep?
Store beans, corn, and avocado separately in airtight containers; add just before serving.

Conclusion

Pork Carnitas Burrito Bowls with Cilantro Rice are a hearty, flavorful, and customizable meal that balances tender, savory pork with fresh, bright ingredients. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining, this dish delivers Mexican-inspired comfort food that’s both satisfying and versatile. Every bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a must-try for any home cook.