Sous Vide Carnitas: Temperature & Time Guide
Carnitas usually mean slow-cooking pork in lard. Sous vide gives the same tender, flavorful result with far less fuss — and the crisping step happens at the end.
Our top pick
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
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Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| Anova Precision Cooker 3.0 | A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking. | View → |
| Instant-read meat thermometer | Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork. | View → |
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
Editor’s PickA circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
- + On-device temperature control
- + 1100W heats fast
- + Recipe library for temps
- − Premium price
- − Some app features paywalled
Free shipping on eligible items
Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork.
- + Verifies actual temperature
- + Cheap insurance
- − Not needed if your circulator is accurate
Free shipping on eligible items
Buying advice
1) Cube pork shoulder, season with salt, garlic, oregano, cumin, and orange zest. 2) Seal and cook at 155°F for 24 hours. 3) Shred the meat. 4) Crisp in a hot pan with a little of the rendered fat until edges are golden. 5) Serve in tacos with onion, cilantro, and lime.
FAQ
What temperature for carnitas?
155°F (68°C) for 24 hours — tender and shreddable. Lower temps keep it more steak-like.
Do I need lard?
No — the shoulder renders its own fat; save it for the crisping step.
Can I use the bag juices?
Yes — the juices are liquid gold for rice or a quick salsa.
Ready to cook perfectly?
Our top pick for this guide — check today’s price and clip any on-page coupon on Amazon:
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Want exact temps and times? Use our free sous vide calculators.