Imagine the scent of savory spices wafting through your kitchen as you prepare slow cooker carnitas, a dish that transforms ordinary pork into an irresistible feast. With tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth and a crispy edge that adds just the right crunch, these carnitas are perfect for taco nights, family gatherings, or even just a cozy dinner alone with your favorite Netflix series.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the table for homemade tacos every Friday night, where slow cooker carnitas took center stage. The anticipation of those flavorful bites made the week feel complete, and each forkful brought back memories of laughter, stories, and a sprinkle of salsa chaos. Trust me when I say that once you try this recipe, you’ll be counting down the days until your next taco night!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This slow cooker carnitas is like a culinary hug, effortlessly prepared while you binge-watch your favorite show
- The flavor is a fiesta in your mouth, with tender meat that practically dances with spices
- Its golden-brown crispiness is so tempting, even your salad might get jealous
- Whether piled high on tacos or nestled in a burrito bowl, this dish shines in any meal!
I remember the joy on my family’s faces when they first tasted my slow cooker carnitas at our taco night.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this slow cooker carnitas recipe:
-
Pork Shoulder: Opt for a well-marbled pork shoulder, as the fat will render during cooking, resulting in tender meat
-
Onion: Use a medium onion, diced; it adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile
-
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a robust aroma; make sure they are firm for maximum flavor
-
Oregano: Dried oregano enhances the dish with earthy notes; use Mexican oregano if available for authenticity
-
Cumin: This spice brings warmth and depth; freshly ground cumin offers the best flavor
-
Chili Powder: Choose a mild chili powder to control heat levels; adjust based on your taste preferences
-
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the dish; avoid bottled juice for optimal flavor
-
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all the flavors in your carnitas; taste before serving to adjust
-
Bay Leaves: These add aromatic depth; remove them before serving to avoid bitterness
-
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for moisture without overpowering saltiness; it keeps the meat juicy
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling everything you need for your slow cooker carnitas. You’ll want a good 3 to 4 pounds of pork shoulder, which is perfect for shredding after cooking. Grab some fresh garlic, onion, and spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Don’t forget the citrus—juicy oranges and limes add that vibrant flavor we crave. Having everything prepped and ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Prepare the Pork: Once you have your ingredients, it’s time to prepare the pork shoulder. Trim any excess fat; this helps avoid overly greasy carnitas later on. Cut the meat into large chunks so it cooks evenly. As you work, the rich aroma of pork will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for your dish.
Sear the Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, sear the pork chunks until they’re golden brown on all sides—about 3 to 4 minutes per side should do it. Searing adds depth to the flavor profile that will make your carnitas irresistible. Don’t rush this step; let that beautiful crust form!
Add Everything to Your Slow Cooker: Transfer your browned pork into the slow cooker and add chopped onions, minced garlic, orange juice, lime juice, and all your spices. Give it a gentle toss with tongs to ensure everything is nicely coated. The combination of citrus and spices will create an aromatic blend that fills your home with warmth as it cooks.
Cook Low and Slow: Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for about 8 hours (or high for 4 hours if you’re short on time). While it cooks, take a moment to relax—maybe enjoy a cup of coffee or catch up on a favorite show. The sweet smell of carnitas will start wafting through your space as they become tender and flavorful.
Shred and Serve: When cooking time is up, carefully remove the meat from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks; this is where all those luscious juices come into play! Serve in warm tortillas or over rice with fresh toppings like cilantro, diced onions, or avocado for a feast that feels like a warm hug at every bite.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of citrus juices, like lime and orange, to brighten the flavors of your slow cooker carnitas
- Don’t skip browning the meat before slow cooking; it adds a rich depth of flavor
- Always let the carnitas rest after cooking for at least 10 minutes before shredding for juicier results
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve tender and flavorful slow cooker carnitas, start by searing the pork shoulder in a hot skillet for about 5-7 minutes on each side to develop a rich crust. Then, place the meat in your slow cooker, add spices, citrus, and cook on low for 8 hours for optimal results.
Add Your Touch
Get creative with your slow cooker carnitas! Swap out the pork for chicken or beef for a different flavor profile. Try adding orange juice for a citrusy zing or experiment with spices like smoked paprika or chipotle for extra heat. Don’t forget to toss in some diced onions and garlic for added depth!
Storing & Reheating
To store slow cooker carnitas, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 10 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
FAQ
What are slow cooker carnitas?
Slow cooker carnitas are tender, flavorful Mexican pulled pork made by slow-cooking seasoned pork.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker carnitas?
Cooking slow cooker carnitas typically takes about 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
Can I freeze leftovers of slow cooker carnitas?
Yes, you can freeze slow cooker carnitas for up to three months for later use.
Slow Cooker Carnitas
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all ingredients, including pork shoulder, onion, garlic, spices, and lime juice.
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut into large chunks.
- Sear the pork chunks in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown on all sides.
- Transfer the browned pork to the slow cooker and add chopped onions, minced garlic, lime juice, and spices.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender.
- Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix with the juices.
- Serve in tacos or burrito bowls with your favorite toppings.
