Imagine this: a chilly evening, the kind where you can almost see your breath indoors, and the only remedy is a bowl of something warm and soul-soothing. That’s where this Easy 5 Ingredient Carnitas Soup steps in—like a long-lost friend with a surprise visit. It’s simple, with just the right ingredients, yet it transforms into a comforting masterpiece that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with more complicated recipes.
Steps
- Stovetop Method: Combine chicken stock, diced potatoes, carnitas, salsa verde, and cumin in a large pot. Heat the mixture over medium-high until it boils, then cover and lower the heat to medium-low to simmer for at least 10 minutes until potatoes are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving with your choice of toppings.
- Slow Cooker Method: Add chicken stock, potatoes, carnitas, salsa verde, and cumin to a slow cooker, stirring to blend. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Taste the soup, season with salt and pepper if necessary, and serve warm with chosen toppings.
- Instant Pot Method: Mix chicken stock, potatoes, carnitas, salsa verde, and cumin in the Instant Pot. Secure the lid, set the vent to “Sealing”, select “Manual”, and set to “High Pressure” for 8 minutes. Once completed, carefully switch the vent to “Venting” for a quick release. After the steam is fully released, remove the lid, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed before serving with preferred toppings.
Ingredients
- Ingredient Carnitas Soup:
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, diced
- 3–4 cups carnitas (prepared in a slow cooker or Instant Pot)
- 2 cups (16 ounces) salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- Fresh arugula
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced avocado
- Sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers
- Grated pepper jack cheese
FAQ
- Can I use something other than potatoes in the Carnitas Soup?
- Yes, you can substitute potatoes with white beans, or even use both for added texture and flavor.
- What is the secret ingredient in this Carnitas Soup?
- The key ingredient is salsa verde, which provides a burst of flavor that seasons the entire soup. You can choose between store-bought or homemade versions, adjusting the heat level to your liking.
- What are some recommended toppings for the Carnitas Soup?
- While toppings are optional, fresh baby arugula adds a unique, peppery taste. Other great toppings include fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, spicy peppers, and grated pepperjack cheese.
- What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? Can I still make this soup?
- Absolutely, the recipe includes instructions for making the soup on a stovetop or in a slow cooker as well.
- How do I store leftovers of the Carnitas Soup?
- You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and simply reheat when ready to enjoy another flavorful bowl.
Tips
- Opt for salsa verde as your main seasoning choice, as it provides a robust flavor that enhances the entire soup. Whether store-bought or homemade, choose a jar that matches your preferred spice level.
- Consider adding fresh baby arugula as a topping to your soup. Its peppery taste adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup and elevates the overall dish.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional toppings like fresh avocado, cilantro, or spicy peppers. These can add extra layers of flavor and texture, making the soup more enjoyable.
- When using the Instant Pot method, ensure to perform a quick release of the pressure carefully to avoid any mishaps, and always taste your soup for seasoning adjustments before serving.
Equipment
- Ingredient Carnitas Soup recipe, here is a list of main equipment that might not be commonly found at home and could be purchased on Amazon:
- Instant Pot Pressure Cooker
- Slow Cooker
