Just when you thought your slow cooker couldn’t get any more magical, here comes this pork carnitas recipe to prove you wrong. Juicy, flavorful, and effortlessly tender, this dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, transforming tough pork shoulder into melt-in-your-mouth carnitas with minimal effort.
- A simple blend of spices and citrus juices infuses the pork with bold, authentic flavors that are irresistible.
- Finishing the carnitas under the broiler adds a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Juicer
- Broiler-safe baking sheet
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Pork
Start by patting the pork shoulder cubes dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, cumin, and oregano. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork cubes, ensuring each piece is well coated. Tip: Letting the seasoned pork sit for 10 minutes before cooking can enhance the flavors.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned pork cubes into the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth around the pork. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the pork. This combination of citrus and broth will keep the pork moist and infuse it with flavor as it cooks.
Step 3: Cook on Low
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. The long, slow cooking time is key to breaking down the connective tissues in the pork shoulder, resulting in carnitas that are tender and easy to shred. Tip: Resist the urge to peek too often, as this can let heat escape and increase cooking time.
Step 4: Shred the Pork
After 8 hours, the pork should be fall-apart tender. Use two forks to shred the meat directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the cooking juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Crisp Under the Broiler
Preheat your broiler to high. Spread the shredded pork in a single layer on a broiler-safe baking sheet. Broil for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and caramelized. Tip: Keep a close eye on the pork during this step to prevent burning.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the pork in the spice mixture and citrus juices overnight before cooking. If you’re short on time, you can cook the carnitas on high for 4 hours, though the texture may not be as tender. Leftover carnitas freeze beautifully; just store them in an airtight container with some of the cooking juices to keep them moist when reheating.
Recipe Variations
- For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of chipotle powder to the spice mix.
- Swap the orange juice for pineapple juice for a sweeter, tropical twist.
- Use the carnitas as a filling for tacos, burritos, or even atop a salad for a lighter option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder?
While pork loin is leaner, it lacks the fat and connective tissue that make pork shoulder ideal for slow cooking. Using loin may result in drier carnitas. If you must substitute, reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
How can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
To make carnitas in an Instant Pot, follow the same seasoning steps. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure. Shred and broil as directed.
What’s the best way to serve pork carnitas?
Pork carnitas are incredibly versatile. Serve them in tacos with fresh cilantro and diced onions, over rice with black beans, or even as a hearty topping for nachos. The possibilities are endless!
Summary
This pork carnitas slow cooker recipe is a foolproof way to achieve tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or any dish needing a protein boost, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.