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Slow Cooker Carnitas
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Slow Cooker Carnitas

Slow cooker carnitas is a flavorful Mexican pork dish that is tender and juicy, made easy by using a slow cooker method with a blend of spices and citrus juices.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time9 hours
Total Time9 hours 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Carnitas, Easy, Flavorful, Pork, Slow Cooker, Tender
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin adds warmth and earthiness
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano brings a subtle herbal note
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika delivers a smoky depth
  • 2 teaspoons salt enhances all the flavors
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper adds a mild heat
  • 4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt), boneless and skinless, washed and patted dry the star of the dish, tender and juicy when slow-cooked
  • 5 cloves garlic minced, aromatic and flavorful
  • 4 ounce can diced green chiles or fresh diced jalapeños for a slight kick and brightness
  • 1 yellow onion chopped, adds sweetness and depth
  • 2 oranges juiced, provides essential citrus brightness and tenderizes the meat
  • 2 limes juiced, adds tangy acidity to balance the richness

Instructions

  • Start by rinsing your pork shoulder under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture so the seasoning sticks well.
  • In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix these together until evenly blended.
  • Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor.
  • Place the chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, and diced green chiles or jalapeños at the bottom of your slow cooker. Set the seasoned pork shoulder on top. Pour the freshly squeezed orange and lime juices over the pork.
  • Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Let the pork cook for 8 to 10 hours, or until it is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork.
  • Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess fat.
  • For authentic texture, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5-7 minutes until the edges get beautifully crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can crisp the carnitas in a hot skillet on the stovetop.
  • Serve your carnitas in warm corn or flour tortillas with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, diced onions, avocado, or salsa.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large Cutting Board
  • Two Forks
  • Baking Sheet
  • Oven
  • Small Bowl

Notes

Choose a pork shoulder with a good balance of meat and fat for the best flavor and tenderness. Don’t skip the citrus juices—they’re key to tenderizing the meat and brightening the overall flavor. For extra smoky flavor, consider adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the slow cooker. For a quicker option, cook the pork in an Instant Pot on high pressure for about 60 minutes. Leftover carnitas make excellent meal prep for tacos, salads, or burrito bowls throughout the week. Carnitas can be crisped in the oven or on the stovetop to add texture and flavor.