Maria Diaz (Odell) has been making traditional carnitas (little cuts of meat) with her family her whole life. At the family run restaurant, The Michoacán Sports Bar & Grill, Maria serves up recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Maria’s traditional carnitas are served with handmade tortillas.
Bio
Maria Diaz is a traditional cook who, with her family, operates the Michoacán Sports Bar and Grill in Odell. Born and reared in Hood River, Diaz works with her parents, who came from Michoacán, Mexico. They prepare all of their dishes following traditional family recipes. The restaurant is particularly known for its traditional carnitas, a pork dish served with handmade tortillas. Diaz’s father makes his carnitas the same way as his grandfather and father did. He starts by butchering a whole pig, first cutting off the fat to render, and then using it to cook the meat. When the lard reaches the right temperature, Diaz’s father adds the meat to a large copper pot that he brought from Mexico more than two decades ago. In keeping with the tradition, nothing else is added except for garlic and salt; then the meat cooks for four to five hours until it becomes meltingly tender. According to Diaz, “the meat tastes better in this type of pot, and its appearance is part of the flavor. The meat—it must have a caramelized color.” This traditional recipe results in a flavorful dish that delights and attracts customers with the authentic tastes of Mexico.
