10 Best Mexican Side Dishes to Serve with Carnitas

Known for their melt-in-your-mouth, flavorful pieces of pork or chicken, carnitas are slow-cooked until perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Whether you serve them in burritos, quesadillas, or on their own, these delicious “little meats” are always a crowd-pleaser. But if you really want to impress your dinner guests—or treat yourself after a stressful week—make each bite more satisfying by serving carnitas with Mexican side dishes!

What to Serve with Carnitas

Below, the Meat Express team has listed some of the best side dishes to eat with carnitas. Each brings different textures and tastes from Mexico to your table in Japan. Quick warning: Each bite will be so good that carnitas might become part of your weekly meal rotation.

Corn Tortillas (Tortillas de Maíz)

It’s almost criminal to serve carnitas without traditional corn tortillas. Whether you use them as a base for tacos or serve them on the side, tortillas are the ultimate vessel for enjoying luscious pork or chicken carnitas. Their slightly nutty, sweet corn flavor and pillowy, pliable texture balance the meat’s umami taste. Trust us, you’ll want seconds (or thirds!).

Image: White Corn Tortilla https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HTjZiyELjGOstqaW_nkhmNC7jjswWiAy/view?usp=sharing

If you’re wondering what the difference is between corn and flour tortillas, read this article for a comprehensive guide. You can also buy wholesale white corn tortillas and wholesale blue corn tortillas from our Meat Express menu.

Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Elote is arguably the best way to enjoy corn on the cob. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered with mayonnaise and seasoned with chili powder, cotija cheese, and lime to bring out a rich, smoky, and tangy flavor. The corn’s natural sweetness balances the carnitas’ savory depth, while the creamy toppings add a layer of indulgence like no other.

Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo)

Mexican rice is a natural fit with carnitas. Made with long-grain rice, onion, garlic, tomato, and a blend of spices, this traditional rice dish has a mild, savory taste that complements the richness of carnitas without overpowering them. The rice’s vibrant red color contrasts beautifully with the golden carnitas, making it a dish that looks good, tastes good, and ties the whole meal together.

Refried Beans (Frijoles Refritos)

Refried beans are another classic Mexican side that pairs perfectly with carnitas. These creamy, flavor-packed beans result from mashing cooked pinto or black beans and frying them with lard or oil, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, cilantro, and spices. The smooth, earthy taste of refried beans is a comforting contrast to the carnitas’ crispy yet tender texture. Together, they serve up a hearty meal rich in flavor and tradition.

Salsa Verde and Chips

Salsa verde is a bright green sauce made from tomatillos (Mexican husk tomatoes), cilantro, jalapeños, and authentic Mexican spices and chilies. Its tangy, slightly spicy flavor cuts through the richness of pork or chicken carnitas, adding a refreshing zestiness to the dish. Drizzle it over carnitas or serve it on the side for dipping, with or without chips.

Interested in a flavor explosion? Try our homemade salsa verde. Meat Express delivers authentic Mexican meals, sides, and sauces anywhere in Japan.

Guacamole and Chips

Guacamole is an all-time favorite Mexican side made from avocados, lime juice, cilantro, onions, and tomatoes. Its creaminess and freshness counter the decadence of carnitas. The subtle citrus notes from the lime also offset the fattiness of pork carnitas. Serve it as a dip or spread on tortillas to make each mouthful so much better.

Cactus Salad (Nopalitos)

Nopalitos is a traditional Mexican salad made from tender, sautéed cactus paddles or nopales. Often mixed with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and avocados, it has a citrusy and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with carnitas.

If you haven’t tried nopalitos, it’s simple or easy going as far as exotic ingredients are concerned. Some people compare the taste to a crunchy, lemony green bean salad. The texture is similar to okra.

Mexican Blistered Peppers (Chiles Toreados)

Chiles toreados are blistered or pan-fried peppers served with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of salt. These peppers add a smoky kick to carnitas. Their charred skin and juicy interior make them a flavorful and spicy addition that can be enjoyed by anyone who appreciates a bit of heat in their food.

To add spice to your carnitas and other meals, try our assortment of dried peppers available for delivery in Japan. We have guajillo peppers, ancho peppers, arbol peppers, canned chipotle peppers, and more. You can grind them into a seasoning for carnitas, turn them into sauces, use them to flavor soups and stews, or sneak them into your favorite brownie recipe!

Pickled Vegetables (Escabeche)

Escabeche is a tangy, slightly sour mix of vegetables such as carrots, jalapeños, and red onions. The pickling process enhances the vegetables’ flavors while providing a crunch that pairs nicely with carnitas.

Escabeche’s sharpness and acidity are refreshing and palate-cleansing. It’s great on carnitas, tacos, burritos, chimichangas, and other rich dishes.

Mexican Coleslaw

Fresh, crunchy, tasty, and healthy. Mexican slaw is a zesty and colorful combination of shredded cabbage, carrots, jalapeños, and cilantro dressed with a lime, chili, and mayo dressing. Its crisp texture and bright flavors contrast the meaty carnitas, and the lime juice adds a tangy note that complements the meal. It’s the perfect accompaniment for anything, especially carnitas.

Also read: If you value nutrition and love Mexican food as much as we do, you’ll love our guide to healthier taco options. Our team put together tips to help you enjoy tacos while keeping them as healthy as can be.

Where to Order Carnitas in Japan

Are you craving authentic carnitas in Japan? Whether you’re in the mood for pork or chicken, the Meat Express team has you covered with a variety of mouthwatering options:

• Pork Carnitas (200g or 1kg)
• Chicken Carnitas (200g or 1kg)
• Chicken Carnitas Chimichanga
• Pork Carnitas Taquitos
• Chicken Carnitas Taquitos
• Pork Carnitas Quesadilla
• Chicken Carnitas Quesadilla
• Pork Carnitas Burrito
• Chicken Carnitas Burrito
• Oaxaca Chicken Carnitas Burrito

Feel free to explore Our Products to discover even more delicious options. We prepare each dish with the finest ingredients to deliver Mexico’s hearty flavors to Japan. Meat Express offers free delivery across Osaka, as well as nationwide shipping with minimal charges. We can’t wait for you to try our food!