Carnitas Seasoning Blend Recipe

Introduction

This homemade carnitas seasoning blend brings authentic Mexican flavors to your kitchen. It’s a simple mix of spices that adds a smoky, savory kick to pork and other dishes, making your carnitas irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried Mexican oregano
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 3/4 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together all the spices until they are evenly combined.
2. Step 2: Transfer the seasoning blend into an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more chili powder to taste.
• Use fresh, high-quality spices for the best flavor and aroma.
• You can double the recipe and keep the extra seasoning on hand for quick carnitas or other Mexican dishes.

Storage

Store the carnitas seasoning in an airtight container away from heat and moisture. It will stay fresh for up to 6 months. Use it within this time to enjoy the best flavor. No reheating is needed until you cook your dish.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use this seasoning for other meats?

Yes, this blend works well with chicken, beef, or even vegetables to add a smoky, savory flavor.

Do I have to use smoked paprika?

Smoked paprika adds a distinctive smoky taste, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be milder.

Carnitas Seasoning Blend Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 129 reviews

This homemade Carnitas Seasoning blend combines a robust mix of spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano to create an authentic Mexican flavor perfect for seasoning pork carnitas. Easy to prepare and store, this seasoning mix elevates any carnitas recipe with its balanced savory, smoky, and slightly spicy profile.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 1/3 cup seasoning blend 1x
• Category: Seasoning
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

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Spices

• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried Mexican oregano
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 3/4 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions

1. Whisk spices: In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, dried Mexican oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, onion powder, and chili powder. Whisk them together thoroughly until the mixture is uniform in color and texture, ensuring all spices are evenly incorporated.
2. Store seasoning: Transfer the blended seasoning into an airtight container and seal tightly. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve freshness. For optimal flavor, use the seasoning within 6 months.

Notes

• This seasoning mix is perfect for pork carnitas but can also be used for other meats like chicken or beef.
• Adjust chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
• Use fresh spices for the most potent flavor.
• Make a larger batch and store in multiple small containers for convenience.
• Shake or stir the container before each use to redistribute the spices evenly.

Keywords: Carnitas seasoning, Mexican spice blend, homemade spice mix, carnitas recipe, pork seasoning