Calories in Carnitas
Carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish made by slow-cooking pork in lard or oil until tender and then crisping it. It is a high-protein, high-fat dish that is naturally low in carbohydrates, though sodium levels can be significant.
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Common Variations
| Variation | Serving | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lean Pork Carnitas | 100g | 180 | 24g | 0g | 9g |
| Restaurant Style (Extra Fat) | 100g | 310 | 18g | 2g | 25g |
| Carnitas Taco (Corn Tortilla) | 1 taco (85g) | 210 | 12g | 15g | 11g |
| Carnitas Bowl (No Rice) | 1 bowl (350g) | 450 | 35g | 15g | 28g |
Health Benefits
Excellent source of high-quality complete protein for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in essential B-vitamins, particularly Thiamin (B1) and B12, supporting energy metabolism.
Provides important minerals such as Zinc and Selenium which support immune function.
Nutrition Tips
- Choose lean cuts of pork if preparing at home to significantly reduce saturated fat intake.
- Pair carnitas with fresh salsa, cilantro, and lime to add flavor without extra calories.
- Opt for corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to increase fiber and reduce processed carb intake.
- Drain excess fat from the meat before serving to lower the overall calorie density.
- Be mindful of toppings like sour cream and cheese, which can double the calorie count of a single taco.
GAYA Tracking Tip
For accurate results, photograph the carnitas meat separately from the tortillas or sides — GAYA can better identify the portion size of the protein when it is not covered by other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carnitas suitable for a Keto diet?+
Yes, Carnitas is excellent for Keto as it is high in fat and protein with almost zero carbs, provided it is not served with tortillas or rice.
How many calories are in a typical Carnitas taco?+
A standard Carnitas taco on a corn tortilla usually contains between 200 and 250 calories, depending on the amount of meat and oil used.
Why is Carnitas often high in sodium?+
Traditional recipes use a significant amount of salt during the slow-cooking process to enhance flavor and help preserve the meat.
Track Carnitas calories with just a photo
Snap a photo of your food — GAYA calculates calories, protein, carbs, and fat in seconds.
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