Pork Carnitas Lettuce Cups with Avocado

Why This Works for Intermittent Fasting

Slow-cooked pork shoulder is rich in protein and satisfying fat, which makes this dish highly effective at controlling hunger well past your next fasting window. Swapping tortillas for crisp lettuce cups removes the starch entirely, keeping the meal keto-compatible while the avocado adds monounsaturated fat that slows digestion and extends satiety even further.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900g) boneless pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth or bone broth
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 large head butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Pat the pork chunks dry and season generously with cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 6–8 minutes total.
3. Add the broth, smashed garlic, and lime juice to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low.
4. Cook for 2.5–3 hours, turning occasionally, until the pork shreds easily with a fork.
5. Remove the pork and shred it using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat. Return the shredded pork to the pot and stir through the remaining cooking liquid to keep it moist.
6. For crispy edges, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes until the edges start to caramelize.
7. Spoon the warm pork carnitas into lettuce cups, top with avocado slices and fresh coriander, and serve with lime wedges.

Nutrition Per Serving

Fasting Compatibility

This dish works well for breaking a 16:8 or 18:6 fast thanks to its high protein and fat content, and it also fits comfortably into OMAD eating windows since it's satisfying enough to serve as a complete standalone meal.

Related Recipes

• Ground beef lettuce tacos with cheese and avocado
• Turkey lettuce wraps with avocado and mustard
• Pulled chicken bowl with coleslaw and avocado

This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making dietary changes, especially if you have an existing health condition.