Name: Slow Cooker Carnitas: 5 Steps to Juicy Perfection
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-489710H49M52S
Total time: PT-489710H49M52S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4-5 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks; 1 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup lime juice; 4-5 garlic cloves, minced; 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 bay leaves; 1 medium onion, sliced

Slow Cooker Carnitas are a family favorite that brings the taste of Mexico right to your kitchen. This dish transforms pork shoulder into tender, juicy, and flavorful pieces infused with citrus, garlic, and smoky spices. The best part? It’s an easy carnitas recipe that requires minimal effort and a slow cooker. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply served over rice, these carnitas are a versatile addition to any meal. Let’s dive into making this flavorful Mexican dish!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Carnitas

There are countless reasons to love this Slow Cooker Carnitas recipe. First, the slow cooking method guarantees tender pork carnitas that shred easily. Second, the combination of citrus and spices creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the meat with flavor. This recipe is not only simple but also forgiving; perfect for beginners! Additionally, it yields enough for meal prep, making it ideal for busy weekdays. You can easily customize the spice level, making it suitable for everyone, from kids to spice aficionados. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can be adapted for various diets!

Slow Cooker Carnitas: 5 Steps to Juicy Perfection - Slow Cooker Carnitas - main visual representation

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Carnitas

Gather these items:

4-5 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
1 cup orange juice
1/4 cup lime juice
4-5 garlic cloves, minced
2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 bay leaves
1 medium onion, sliced

How to Make Slow Cooker Carnitas Step-by-Step

Step 1: Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks to fit comfortably in your slow cooker.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together to create a tangy, smoky marinade bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Place the sliced onions and bay leaves at the bottom of the slow cooker, then add the pork chunks. Pour the marinade evenly over the meat, ensuring each piece is coated.
Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours until the pork is fork-tender.
Step 5: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. For crispy carnitas, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes, flipping once.

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Carnitas

Keep these in mind:

This recipe is versatile and can be used for tacos, bowls, or other meals.
You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers.
For extra flavor, marinate the meat overnight before cooking.
Use a combination of different citrus juices for a unique taste.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Carnitas

There are so many delicious ways to enjoy Slow Cooker Carnitas. Serve them in soft tortillas for Slow Cooker Carnitas Tacos, topped with fresh cilantro and diced onions. You can also create hearty burrito bowls with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings. For a lighter option, serve the shredded carnitas over a fresh salad with avocado and lime dressing!

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Carnitas

To store your Slow Cooker Carnitas, keep the shredded pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place the carnitas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals. This makes Slow Cooker Carnitas for Meal Prep a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Carnitas

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Carnitas?

The key to perfect Slow Cooker Carnitas is using a well-marbled cut of pork shoulder and allowing it to cook low and slow. This method ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender and absorbs all the flavorful spices.

Can I make Slow Cooker Carnitas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make Slow Cooker Carnitas ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freeze for later use. This makes them perfect for meal prep or entertaining!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Carnitas?

To avoid overcooked or dry Slow Cooker Carnitas, make sure to monitor the cooking time. Cooking on low for 8-10 hours is best. Also, don’t skip the marinating step; it adds essential flavor!

Variations of Slow Cooker Carnitas You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations of Slow Cooker Carnitas:
1. **Spicy Slow Cooker Carnitas**: Add extra chipotle peppers for heat.
2. **Slow Cooker Carnitas with Citrus**: Mix different citrus juices like grapefruit or lemon for a unique flavor profile.
3. **Homemade Carnitas with Slow Cooker**: Substitute the pork shoulder with pork butt for a different texture.
4. **Tender Pork Carnitas in a Slow Cooker**: Use a different seasoning blend like taco seasoning for a twist.

For more delicious recipes, check out Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken or Loaded Chicken Nachos. You can also try Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies for a sweet treat!