Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

There’s something so heartwarming about the aroma of pork carnitas wafting through the house. It transports me back to family feasts, where stories shared around the table are as rich as the flavors in the dishes we enjoy. My love for cooking grows with every simmer and sizzle, especially with a slow cooker by my side. This handy kitchen magician turns simple cuts of meat into tender, mouth-watering creations, making it a beloved companion in my culinary adventures. Join me as I share my favorite Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas recipe, which envelops your home in a cozy embrace of spices and citrus—a dish perfect for feeding family or entertaining friends.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 10 minutes
• Total Duration: 8 hours 15 minutes (or 4 hours 10 minutes on high)
• Portion Size: Serves 6-8
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 304
• Protein: 23 grams
• Carbs: 7 grams
• Fats: 20 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams
• Sugars: 2 grams
• Sodium: 636 mg

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

You’ll love this recipe for its incredible simplicity and flavor depth. The marriage of orange and lime juices infuses the pork with a vibrant taste, while the combination of spices brings warmth and a hint of smokiness. Plus, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to go about your day while it works its magic. There’s nothing quite like pulling apart succulent, juicy pork after hours of simmering—it’s a culinary experience you’ll want to repeat often.

The Complete Cooking Journey

The journey of cooking these Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas is a delightful one. Start by summoning your aromatic ingredients, each holding the promise of flavor. You’ll feel like a craftsman as you blend them, create a vibrant citrus bath, and watch as the pork transforms throughout the cooking process. The end result will be a savory, slightly crispy carnitas that will make everyone around the table eager for more.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 bay leaves

Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder

Place the pork shoulder chunks in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Marinade

In a bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, chicken broth, garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Season the Pork

Pour the seasoning mixture over the pork and add the diced onion and bay leaves.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreds.

Step 5: Shred the Pork

Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

Step 6: Crisp the Edges (Optional)

For extra crispy edges, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the carnitas with warm tortillas, cilantro, lime wedges, and your favorite toppings.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These carnitas shine best with warm corn tortillas, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and lime juice to brighten the flavors. Consider adding diced onions, avocados, or a dollop of sour cream for varied textures and tastes. For a feast, serve alongside Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh corn salad for a full Mediterranean experience.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze any remaining carnitas for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool them completely before packing them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy again, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop for best results.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

1. Pork Quality Matters: Choosing a well-marbled pork shoulder is key to juicy carnitas.
2. Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Utilize fresh spices for a more vibrant flavor profile.
3. Broiling is Optional: If you prefer tender carnitas without the crispy texture, skip the broiling step.
4. Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Just cook and freeze, so you always have a delicious meal on hand!

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to experiment! Try adding chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky flavor, or incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist. You could also substitute chicken or beef for a fun variation, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder?

   • Yes, though it may not be as tender and juicy as shoulder.

2. What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

   • You can make this carnita recipe in a Dutch oven on the stovetop or in the oven at a low temperature.

3. How can I reduce the sodium content?

   • Use low-sodium chicken broth and skip the added salt.

4. What are the best toppings for carnitas?

   • Recommended toppings include pickled red onions, jalapeños, and avocado crema.

5. Can I make these carnitas spicy?

   • Yes, adding jalapeños or more chili powder can elevate the heat level!

Wrapping Up

This Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas recipe not only delivers unforgettable flavors, but it also invites warmth and joy into your kitchen and home. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner, every bite tells a story of love, share them with those you hold dear. So roll up your sleeves and let your slow cooker take you on a delicious journey—you might find that dinner has never been this effortless or rewarding! Happy cooking!

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