RecipesPuerto RicoCarne Frita con Cebollas

Carne Frita con Cebollas

Crispy, savory chunks of seasoned pork fried to perfection and tossed with sweet, slightly caramelized onions. This dish is a beloved classic, often served as an appetizer or a main course with traditional sides.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Carne Frita con Cebollas - Puerto Rico traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs Pork shoulder or country-style ribs(cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1 tsp Adobo seasoning
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1 tsp Turmeric
  • 1 packet Sazón seasoning (optional)(for color and flavor)
  • 1 cup Vegetable oil or avocado oil(for frying)
  • 1 large Yellow onion(thinly sliced)
  • 0.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a bowl, combine the pork cubes with adobo seasoning, paprika, oregano, turmeric, and optional sazón. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated.

  2. 2

    Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.

    💡 Tip: Ensure the oil is hot enough to achieve a crispy exterior quickly.
  3. 3

    Carefully add the seasoned pork to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

    💡 Tip: Frying in batches ensures the pork fries rather than steams, resulting in a crispier texture.
  4. 4

    Remove the fried pork with a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

  5. 5

    Add the thinly sliced onions to the reserved pork fat in the skillet. Sauté over medium heat until softened and lightly golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

  6. 6

    Return the fried pork to the skillet with the onions. Toss to combine and heat through for about 2 minutes.

  7. 7

    Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve hot.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use pork shoulder or pork butt for the best flavor and texture, as they have enough fat to stay moist during frying.
  • Ensure the oil is hot before adding the pork to get a good crisp.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan when frying; work in batches.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a splash of vinegar or lime juice to the pork before frying for a tangy note.
  • Serve with a side of garlic mojo sauce for dipping.

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