Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

The magic of Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas lies in their simplicity and bold flavor. Slow-cooked with citrus, spices, and love, the pork becomes fall-apart tender and then crisped to perfection in the oven for that irresistible texture. Whether you pile them into warm tortillas, build a hearty bowl, or savor them on their own, these carnitas will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant heart of Mexico. Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and flavor to your table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 pounds pork shoulder (boneless, skinless)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon salt

• 2 teaspoons black pepper

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 onion, coarsely chopped

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 orange, juiced

• 1 lime, juiced

Directions:

1. Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks and season generously with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork pieces until browned on all sides.

3. Transfer the pork to a slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, bay leaves, orange juice, and lime juice.

4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.

5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet.

6. Broil the pork in the oven for 5-7 minutes until the edges are crispy.

7. Serve the carnitas in tacos, burritos, bowls, or as desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 hours | Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes

Kcal: 265 kcal | Servings: 8 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

When it comes to authentic Mexican comfort food, Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas top the list. Juicy, tender, and full of flavor, carnitas are a versatile dish that can be served in countless ways from classic tacos to hearty rice bowls. Thanks to the magic of the slow cooker, you can achieve restaurant-quality carnitas at home with minimal effort. In this guide, we’ll dive into the history, flavor profile, serving ideas, and tips for making the best carnitas every time.

What Are Carnitas?

Carnitas, meaning “little meats” in Spanish, are a traditional Mexican dish made by braising or simmering pork in oil or lard until tender. Originally from the state of Michoacán, carnitas are typically made using pork shoulder due to its rich marbling and robust flavor. After slow cooking, the pork is shredded and cooked again at a higher heat to create those delicious crispy edges that everyone loves.

Modern adaptations, like the slow cooker version, make it easier to enjoy carnitas without the mess of deep-frying. Instead, the pork is cooked low and slow in its own juices with a combination of spices and citrus for extra depth and tang. The final broiling step mimics the traditional crispy texture, giving you the best of both worlds: juicy, succulent meat with a crunchy finish.

The Flavor Profile of Pork Carnitas

One bite of pork carnitas and you’ll understand why they’re such a beloved dish. The flavor profile is a beautiful balance of savory, citrusy, and aromatic notes. Key spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder add warmth and earthiness, while fresh orange and lime juice provide brightness that cuts through the richness of the pork.

Garlic and onions infuse the meat with an additional layer of savory goodness as it cooks. What makes slow cooker carnitas stand out is how the long cooking time allows these flavors to fully penetrate the pork, resulting in meat that’s deeply seasoned all the way through.

The final broil in the oven caramelizes the juices clinging to the shredded pork, creating irresistible crispy bits that contrast perfectly with the tender interior. It’s a combination that’s practically impossible to resist.

Why the Slow Cooker Is Perfect for Carnitas

Traditional carnitas preparation can be time-consuming and messy, involving large quantities of lard and constant attention. The slow cooker method revolutionizes the process by offering a hands-off approach that still delivers amazing results.

Using a slow cooker allows the pork to cook gently over several hours, ensuring it becomes incredibly tender without drying out. Plus, it’s an excellent way to develop deep flavor without the need for added fat. As the pork slowly releases its juices, it creates a self-basting environment that keeps the meat moist and flavorful.

The slow cooker is also ideal for busy lifestyles. You can set it in the morning before work and come home to a house filled with the mouthwatering aroma of spiced pork, ready to be crisped and served.

Best Cuts of Meat for Carnitas

For authentic carnitas, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt or Boston butt) is the preferred cut because of its perfect balance of meat and fat. The fat renders during the slow cooking process, keeping the meat juicy and enhancing its flavor.

Avoid lean cuts like pork loin or tenderloin for this recipe they don’t have enough fat content and can easily become dry when slow-cooked. Marbled pork shoulder ensures the carnitas remain tender and flavorful, even after broiling.

Serving Ideas for Pork Carnitas

One of the best things about pork carnitas is how versatile they are. Here are some delicious serving ideas to inspire your next meal:

• Tacos: Pile the carnitas into warm corn tortillas and top with chopped onions, cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and your favorite salsa.

• Burritos: Wrap carnitas, rice, beans, cheese, and veggies into a large tortilla for a satisfying burrito.

• Rice Bowls: Create a hearty bowl with carnitas over cilantro-lime rice, black beans, guacamole, and pico de gallo.

• Quesadillas: Make a crispy quesadilla by sandwiching carnitas and melted cheese between two tortillas.

• Nachos: Sprinkle carnitas over tortilla chips with jalapeños, cheese, and sour cream for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

• Salads: Toss carnitas on a bed of fresh greens with avocado, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing for a lighter option.

You can also serve carnitas simply with a side of Mexican street corn (elote), refried beans, or a fresh cabbage slaw for an easy yet impressive meal.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Carnitas

To make sure your carnitas turn out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Sear First: Browning the pork before placing it in the slow cooker adds an extra layer of flavor through caramelization.

• Use Fresh Citrus: Freshly squeezed orange and lime juice brightens the flavor and tenderizes the meat naturally.

• Don’t Skip the Broiling: After shredding, a quick trip under the broiler crisps up the edges, giving you that authentic texture without deep frying.

• Save the Juices: After broiling, spoon some of the reserved cooking juices back over the pork to keep it moist and flavorful.

• Customize the Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning blend to suit your taste preferences. Add a touch of smoked paprika for a smokier flavor or chipotle powder for extra heat.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Pork carnitas are excellent for meal prep because they store and reheat beautifully. To store leftovers, allow the meat to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to revive the crispy texture. You can also pop the carnitas under the broiler for a few minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. Add a splash of reserved juices or a little chicken broth if needed to keep the meat moist during reheating.

Health Benefits of Pork Carnitas

While indulgent, pork carnitas offer some nutritional benefits when made at home. Pork shoulder is a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety. It also provides important nutrients like B vitamins (especially B12), iron, and zinc.

By making carnitas at home, you control the ingredients and can limit unnecessary fats, preservatives, and additives often found in restaurant versions. Pairing carnitas with fresh vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like avocado can round out the meal and make it even more nourishing.

Conclusion:

Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas are a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Thanks to the slow cooker, this traditional Mexican favorite is now accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. With its irresistible balance of tender and crispy textures and a flavor profile that’s both savory and zesty, pork carnitas are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Whether you enjoy them in tacos, bowls, burritos, or simply by the forkful, carnitas are a dish that brings people together and makes any meal feel like a special occasion. Plus, the versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to feed a crowd make it a perfect choice for family dinners, parties, or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead. Once you try homemade pork carnitas, there’s no turning back your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you.