Slow cooker carnitas are a delicious and easy way to make tender, flavorful pulled pork with minimal effort. The slow cooking process infuses the pork with a perfect blend of citrus, garlic, and spices, creating meat that is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside when broiled.
This recipe is versatile and great for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, carnitas are always a crowd-pleaser.
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Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because the slow cooker tenderizes the pork shoulder, allowing it to soak up all the flavorful juices from the orange juice, garlic, and spices. Cooking the meat low and slow ensures that it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the optional broiling step adds a delightful crispiness to the edges. The combination of savory, sweet, and citrusy flavors makes these carnitas incredibly tasty and authentic.
Another reason this recipe is so good is its simplicity and flexibility. It requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy days, and the leftovers are just as delicious. You can easily customize the seasoning or use the carnitas in various dishes, from tacos to salads. This recipe delivers consistent, flavorful results every time, making it a go-to for Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Pork Shoulder (Pork Butt) – A flavorful and tender cut that becomes juicy and shreddable when slow-cooked. Substitute with pork loin for a leaner option.
Orange Juice – Adds sweetness and acidity, helping to tenderize the meat. Lime juice or pineapple juice can be used instead.
Garlic – Enhances the savory flavor of the carnitas. Substitute with garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.
Onion – Adds depth to the flavor. Shallots or leeks can be used as alternatives.
Cumin – Provides warm, earthy notes. Chili powder or smoked paprika can replace it for a slightly different flavor.
Tips
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder to avoid overly greasy carnitas.
- For crispy carnitas, broil the shredded pork for a few minutes after cooking.
- Use fresh citrus juice for the best flavor.
- Let the pork cook on low for the most tender results.
- Save the cooking juices to drizzle over the shredded meat for added moisture and flavor.
How to Serve
Slow cooker carnitas are versatile and perfect for family meals or entertaining. The tender, flavorful pork pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Serve in warm tortillas with salsa, guacamole, and fresh cilantro for classic tacos.
- Use as a filling for burritos, quesadillas, or enchiladas.
- Top a bowl of rice and beans with carnitas for a hearty burrito bowl.
Similar Recipes
Slow Cooker Carnitas
Ingredients
- 4 lbs pork shoulder pork butt, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together orange juice, garlic, onion, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the pork.
- Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 5–6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Optional: For crispy carnitas, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet, drizzle with some of the cooking juices, and broil for 5–7 minutes until golden.
- Serve warm with your favorite sides or toppings.
Nutrition
Notes
2. For crispy carnitas, broil the shredded pork for a few minutes after cooking.
3. Use fresh citrus juice for the best flavor.
4. Let the pork cook on low for the most tender results.
5. Save the cooking juices to drizzle over the shredded meat for added moisture and flavor.
Good meaty recipe.