This Easy Slow Cooker Carnitas is packed with flavor and super tender! All you need is some pork, spices, and a touch of orange for a tasty meal that’s perfect for tacos or burritos.
Cooking it low and slow means you can go do other fun things while it takes care of itself! I love piling mine high with guacamole and salsa—who can resist that combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for carnitas because it’s fatty and becomes tender during slow cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use pork loin but keep in mind it may not be as juicy.
Spices: The mix of cumin, oregano, and chili powder gives the carnitas their signature flavor. If you don’t have chili powder, using paprika or smoked paprika can work as a substitute.
Orange: Fresh orange juice adds a wonderful sweetness and acidity. If oranges aren’t available, you could use pineapple juice for a different but tasty flavor twist.
Chicken Broth: It adds moisture and flavor. For a richer taste, consider using homemade broth. You can also use vegetable broth if you prefer a non-meat option.
What’s the Best Way to Shred Pork So It’s Perfectly Fluffy?
Shredding pork can be tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it! After cooking, follow these steps to achieve perfectly fluffy carnitas:
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps retain moisture.
- Use two forks to pull apart the meat—start from the edges and work your way in. This breaks it up nicely.
- For a crispier texture, spread the pulled pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes.
This method gives you both tender and crispy bits, just like at a taco truck! Enjoy your delicious carnitas!
Easy Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Meat:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt), trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Cooking Liquid:
- 1 orange, juiced (reserve the spent halves)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Corn or flour tortillas, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then 8 to 10 hours to cook in the slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day or a lazy weekend! Just rub the spices on the pork, let it sit in the slow cooker, and come back to a delicious meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
Start by mixing the kosher salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder in a small bowl. This mixture will add delicious flavor to the pork.
2. Season the Pork:
Rub the spice mixture all over the chunks of pork shoulder, making sure each piece is evenly coated. This will give your carnitas a wonderful taste!
3. Layer the Slow Cooker:
At the bottom of your slow cooker, place the sliced onion and minced garlic. This will create a tasty base for the pork to cook on.
4. Add the Pork:
Place the seasoned pork on top of the onions and garlic. Make sure to arrange the pieces nicely!
5. Add Juices:
Squeeze the juice of the orange and lime over the pork. Then, toss in the spent orange halves for extra flavor.
6. Pour in the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth around the pork to add moisture. Tuck the bay leaf in as well—it will infuse more flavor while cooking.
7. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for about 8 to 10 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the pork will be!
8. Shred the Pork:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart easily!
9. Optional Crisping:
If you like your carnitas a little crispy, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil it for 5 to 7 minutes until it gets a nice golden edge. This adds a delicious texture!
10. Serve:
Warm up corn or flour tortillas, then fill them with the shredded carnitas. Top with fresh cilantro and any of your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Dig in and share these delightful carnitas with friends and family. They’re sure to love it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While pork shoulder is ideal for its fat content and tenderness, you can use pork loin for a leaner option. Just note that it might be less juicy, so watch the cooking time to prevent it from drying out!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can season the pork and set it in the slow cooker the night before. Just keep it in the fridge overnight and start cooking the next day. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
How Do I Store Leftover Carnitas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the carnitas for longer storage—just let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer bag. They should keep well for up to 3 months!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you like some heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix. You can also serve with spicy salsa or diced fresh chilies on top for an extra kick!
