'A co-worker who was born in Cuba helped me perfect the recipe for this hearty dish,' reports Helen Simms of Lyons, Michigan. 'Now it's one of our family's favorites. It's also a great way to use up leftover holiday ham.'
'This recipe is a favorite of my vegetarian friends,' writes Virginia Anthony of Blowing Rock, North Carolina. 'I lightened it by using egg substitute and reduced-fat cheese. I also added a few more vegetables.'
When I was growing up, my mom never ever made meatloaf and I always wanted to try it. I started experimenting with different recipes and I finally came up with the best meatloaf I have ever made!
Carnitas means 'little meats' and is traditionally fried then braised. This recipe is made much easier using the slow cooker but the results are just as tasty. This makes a great filling for tamales, enchiladas, tacos and burritos. This filling is also great combined with your favorite barbecue sauce and served on buns.
Five layers of Mexican-inspired delights are topped by a layer of vegetables, then smothered in cheese and garnished with black olives. The vegetables may be varied according to taste.