During the work week, I don’t have time to for a complicated dinner. I prefer to focus on quality time with the boys in lieu of prepping, chopping, and sautéing. Despite being pressed for time, I don’t like to skimp on flavor or quality. I usually like to pull in fresh produce to round out the meal and ensure the boys get their fill of fruits and vegetables.
One of the simplest dinners that’s ready in under 15 minutes are pork carnitas tacos with Mexican rice. This meal would not come together this quickly without a little help from my friends- most notably H-E-B. Their fully cooked pork carnitas are a godsend and are microwave ready in 4 1/2 minutes. Tilda’s Mexican Style Chili & Bean Basmati Rice seals the deal for a savory side ready in under 5 minutes. The only prep work this meal requires is slicing an onion and an avocado.
INGREDIENTS:
- H-E-B Fully Cooked Pork Carnitas
- 1 medium sweet onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Flour or corn tortillas
- Avocado, sliced
DIRECTIONS:
In a skillet on medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until translucent. While the onions are on the stove, heat the pork carnitas in the microwave according to the directions on the package. Remove a third of the onions and add to a second skillet to sauté with the rice. Then add the heated carnitas to the remaining onions on the stove, stir until mixed, and turn the heat down to low.
In a separate skillet, sauté the rice, onions, and frozen veggies you have on hand. I usually toss in peas and corn. This week, I realized I was out of corn, so I just opted for the peas. You can also add a can of drained fire roasted tomatoes to stretch the rice and have more for leftovers.
As the rice is warming, use a comal or a third skillet to warm the tortillas on medium. Assemble your tacos and top with salsa and fresh avocado. Sean usually likes to add sour cream to his tacos as well. This dish can easily be made low carb by skipping on the tortillas and rice. Instead top the carnitas and onions with shredded cheese, fresh avocado, and sour cream.
Make your next taco night come together in no time flat with this quick and easy recipe! It’s definitely always a hit with the bears in my den.
Birds of a Feather 