Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Recipe
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and tender meat, you’re going to love this Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas recipe. The combination of spices like chili powder and cumin creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
Cooking the pork low and slow guarantees it becomes incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. Plus, the citrus juices from the oranges and limes add a revitalizing zing that balances the richness of the meat.
I always love how versatile carnitas are; whether you serve them in tacos, burritos, or simply over rice, they never disappoint. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
When it comes to making Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas, gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect balance of flavors. This recipe calls for a handful of staples that you might already have on hand, along with a few fresh items that really make the dish sing.
It’s all about layering those bold spices with the juicy sweetness of citrus. So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to whip up this crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 lbs pork shoulder, excess fat trimmed
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 onions, quartered
- 2 oranges, juiced
- 2 limes, juice of
Now, before you rush off to the grocery store, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. The pork shoulder is the star of the show, and trust me, you want to choose a nice, marbled piece for that melt-in-your-mouth effect.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even explore using a different cut of pork, but shoulder is the classic choice for a reason. And don’t skimp on the spices! They’re what transform your pork from bland to grand.
If you can, use fresh garlic instead of powdered; it really does make a difference in flavor depth. And if you’re like me and can’t resist a little extra zing, squeeze in a bit more lime juice at the end for that pop of brightness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
Now that we’ve our ingredients ready, let’s delve into the exciting part: making our Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas. Trust me, it’s way easier than it sounds, and the results are nothing short of mouthwatering.
First up, grab that 4 lbs of pork shoulder—yes, the glorious cut that’s going to make everyone swoon—and trim off any excess fat. You want it to be juicy but not swimming in grease.
Then, in a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper. This spice blend is the magic dust that will elevate your pork from ‘meh’ to ‘wow.’ Rub it all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover every nook and cranny.
Next, toss 4 peeled garlic cloves and 2 quartered onions into your slow cooker. These aromatics are going to infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks.
Then, squeeze the juice from 2 oranges and 2 limes right over the pork, letting that citrus goodness seep into the meat. Now, place your seasoned pork shoulder right on top. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours.
As the hours pass, you might find yourself checking it more often than necessary, just to smell those heavenly scents filling your kitchen. It’s like a warm hug, isn’t it?
Once your timer goes off, carefully remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Don’t be shy—it’s a satisfying process, almost therapeutic if you ask me.
Then, return the shredded meat to the pot, mixing it with all those delicious juices. Before serving, give it a taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
Now, for the pièce de résistance: preheat your oven to broil. Spread the carnitas onto a baking sheet and pop it under the broiler for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re crispy and golden on top. This step is essential because who doesn’t love a little crunch?
Serve immediately and watch as your friends and family dig in like they’ve been waiting for this feast all week. Honestly, you might want to make double the batch; it’s that good.
Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Substitutions & Variations
While I love the traditional flavors of slow cooker pork carnitas, there’s always room to get creative with substitutions and variations.
For a unique twist, try using chicken thighs instead of pork; they’ll still be juicy and delicious. If you want to cut down on fat, lean cuts like pork loin work well, though they may be less flavorful.
For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the mix. Feel free to experiment with different citrus; grapefruit juice can add a revitalizing zing.
Herbs like cilantro or fresh thyme can elevate the dish, too. Remember, cooking is all about personal taste, so don’t hesitate to adjust the spices and ingredients to make it your own!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
Serving slow cooker pork carnitas is all about balancing flavors and textures. I love to pair my carnitas with fresh corn tortillas to soak up all the delicious juices.
Toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime really brighten up the dish. If you want a little kick, don’t forget to add some pickled jalapeños or a spicy salsa.
For a rejuvenating side, I often whip up a simple cabbage slaw with a tangy dressing. Black beans or Mexican rice complement the pork perfectly, adding heartiness to the meal.
And for a touch of sweetness, grilled pineapple or mango salsa makes a delightful contrast. Enjoying these sides makes every bite of carnitas even more satisfying!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing slow cooker pork carnitas with the right sides enhances the overall experience, but there are also some tips to elevate your dish even further.
First, don’t skip the broiling step; it adds that irresistible crispy texture. I also recommend experimenting with different citrus juices—grapefruit or lemon can add a unique twist.
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the spice rub ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. For extra flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar when shredding the pork.
Finally, don’t forget to garnish your carnitas with fresh cilantro, diced onions, or avocado for a burst of freshness.
Enjoy your cooking adventure, and I’m sure you’ll impress everyone at the table!