Nitrate & Nitrite Free Slow-Braised Pork Carnitas in Lettuce Wraps

Slow-braised pork shoulder gets a deeply flavorful treatment here, rubbed with turmeric, ginger, and Ceylon cinnamon before being seared in coconut oil and braised low and slow with orange juice, lime, and bone broth until it practically falls apart on its own. The real magic happens at the end, when the shredded meat hits the broiler and the edges go crispy and caramelized — that contrast of tender interior and crunchy bits is exactly what makes carnitas so irresistible. Every ingredient in this recipe is whole and unprocessed, which means none of the cured meats or packaged seasonings that often sneak in unwanted additives. The braising liquid does double duty, keeping the pork moist during the long oven braise and then basting the meat before it crisps under the broiler, so nothing goes to waste. Spooned into cool, crisp butter lettuce leaves and topped with avocado, red onion, and fresh cilantro, the whole thing comes together as a bright, satisfying meal that feels both light and deeply savory at the same time. It's the kind of recipe that looks impressive on a platter but is genuinely forgiving to make — the oven does most of the work.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →