This Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas is a fuss-free way to enjoy tender, juicy pork! Just throw in the meat with some tasty spices and let the slow cooker do all the hard work.
I love how simple it is to make—just set it and forget it! Perfect for tacos or burritos, and I may have eaten a few bites straight from the pot! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This is the star of the show! While pork shoulder or butt is best due to its fat content, you could also use a pork loin for a leaner option, just keep in mind it may not be as juicy.
Cumin & Chili Powder: Essential for that authentic flavor! If you don’t have chili powder, a mix of paprika and a pinch of cayenne can work too. I love using smoked paprika for an extra kick!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. I prefer using whole cloves for a stronger flavor denominator.
Orange: Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens the dish. If you’re out of oranges, a splash of apple juice or even a bit of lime juice can help, but try to keep the balance.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are perfect for serving carnitas, but you could swap in flour tortillas if you prefer something softer.
How Do I Ensure My Carnitas Are Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender pork carnitas is all in the slow cooking. Start with properly trimming the pork shoulder and cutting it into larger chunks; this helps with even cooking. Make sure to season the meat generously and let those spices do their magic.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours for the best tenderness. If short on time, high for 4-6 hours will still yield tasty results.
- Don’t skip the broiling step! It gives crispy edges that enhance the texture and flavor.
Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 3-4 pounds boneless pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 orange, juiced (keep the spent orange for cooking)
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
For Serving:
- Corn tortillas
- Lime wedges
- Chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires 8-10 hours of cooking on low (or 4-6 hours on high) in the crockpot. After cooking, you’ll need a few extra minutes to shred the pork and serve. Perfect for a delicious, laid-back meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by trimming any extra fat from the pork shoulder. Cut it into large chunks so it cooks evenly. This helps in making the meat tender and easy to shred later.
2. Season the Pork:
In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder together. Rub this spice mixture generously over all sides of the pork pieces. This is what gives your carnitas that delicious flavor!
3. Set Up the Crockpot:
Place the quartered onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the crockpot. These aromatics will enhance the flavor of the pork as it cooks.
4. Add the Pork:
Now, place the seasoned pork on top of the garlic and onion in the crockpot. This order helps to keep everything flavorful as the juices from the pork drip down.
5. Add Citrus Juices:
Squeeze the juice of the orange and limes over the pork, letting it soak in. Don’t forget to throw the spent orange halves into the pot for extra flavor!
6. Pour in the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth into the crockpot and add the bay leaves. This will keep the pork moist and flavorful while it cooks.
7. Cook the Pork:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours. The pork will be done when it’s so tender that it easily shreds apart with a fork.
8. Shred the Pork:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the crockpot and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
9. Crisp the Shredded Pork (Optional):
If you’d like a crispy edge to your carnitas, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and put it under the broiler in your oven for a few minutes, watching closely until the edges are nicely crisped.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the delicious carnitas in warm corn tortillas. Add extra lime juice and garnish with chopped cilantro if you like. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Another Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork butt are ideal for their marbling and flavor, you can use other cuts like pork loin or even chicken if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary with different cuts; leaner meats may cook faster, so adjust accordingly to prevent drying out.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a kick, try adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños along with the other spices. You can also serve the carnitas with a spicy salsa or hot sauce for an extra flavor boost!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Carnitas?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing the shredded pork in a resealable freezer bag, where it will last for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Using a Different Cooking Method?
Yes! If you don’t have a crockpot, you can also make carnitas in a Dutch oven or on the stovetop. Just follow the same steps, but reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low heat, or until the pork is tender and easy to shred. Make sure to keep an eye on the liquid levels and add more broth as needed!
