Simple carnitas makes dinner easy
If you need a party idea (or just another great dinner idea), my new friend Kelley has an answer for you. I helped her throw a small gathering recently and was truly amazed at how easy this menu goes together.
Start the pork early in the morning, and then there's only a little prep to do just before serving. Meanwhile, the pork smells simply amazing as it simmers in the slow cooker, and as your guests arrive, they'll think you've been slaving all day.
Carnitas are traditionally a big pork roast that is caramelized and then braised. But that's a whole lot of work and hands-on time. Kelley's adaptation is brilliant. She lets the slow cooker do the braising and then gives the shredded pork a quick saute in oil before serving. You can serve this menu as a buffet and let everyone build his or her own plate.
For her lime-cilantro rice, Kelley cooks jasmine rice according to the package directions, squeezes a little fresh lime juice over it, and tosses in some chopped fresh cilantro leaves. Black beans can be seasoned or plain, because there are already so many flavors in the rest of the menu.
Finally, purchase some guacamole, or go to KitchenScoop.com for an authentic recipe from my friend Petra, who lives in Reynosa, Mexico. Of course, our terrific sangria is also found on our website.
It's a party in no time at all! Bueno appetite!
Suggested menu: Kelley's Carnitas with small flour tortillas, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo or salsa of choice, queso fresco, black beans, lime-cilantro rice and sangria.
• Beverly Mills and Alicia Ross are co-authors of “Desperation Dinners!” Write them at Desperation Dinners, c/o United Media, 200 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016, or tellus@kitchenscoop.com.