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Paleo Mexican Carnitas Lettuce Wraps

Paleo Mexican Carnitas Lettuce Wraps

These mouthwatering Paleo Mexican Carnitas Lettuce Wraps are a healthy, flavorful alternative to traditional tacos! Using lettuce leaves as a wrap instead of tortillas, you can enjoy tender, slow-cooked carnitas that are bursting with authentic Mexican flavor while keeping the dish gluten-free and paleo-friendly. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Course Healthy, Main Course, Paleo
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Slow Cooker
  • 1 Sauté Pan
  • 1 Meat thermometer
  • 1 serving platter

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds pork shoulder - trimmed and cut into chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil - for searing
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder - for seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon cumin - for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder - for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder - for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt - for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper - for seasoning
  • 1 cup chicken broth - for cooking
  • 1 head iceberg lettuce - for wraps
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes - for topping
  • 1 avocado - sliced for topping
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro - for garnish
  • Lime wedges - for serving

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mix all over the pork shoulder pieces.
  • In a sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned pork in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch.
  • Once all the pork is seared, transfer it to the slow cooker and pour the chicken broth over it.
  • Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
  • After cooking, shred the pork using two forks and mix well with the cooking juices.
  • To serve, take a lettuce leaf, fill it with carnitas, and top with diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and cilantro.
  • Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Variations: For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the wraps.
Tips and Tricks: Make sure to dry the pork thoroughly before seasoning to get the best sear when cooking.
Helpful Notes: Serve with a side of guacamole or salsa for added flavor. Leftover carnitas can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Nutrition

Serving: 1wrapCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1g
Keyword Carnitas, Healthy Recipe, Lettuce Wraps, Paleo, Tacos
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