Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas
There’s something magical about the aroma of slow-cooked pork wafting through the house.
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug that warms the soul.
Whether you’re juggling a busy workweek or planning a weekend gathering, this dish is your go-to solution.
With minimal effort, you can create tender, flavorful pork with crispy edges that will impress your loved ones.
Imagine serving these carnitas in tacos or burritos, and watching everyone savor each bite.
Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas is a game-changer for any home cook.
It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to set it and forget it while you tackle your day.
The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s bursting with taste.
Plus, the crispy edges add a delightful texture that elevates every bite.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe delivers satisfaction without the stress.
Ingredients for Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pork shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, becoming tender and flavorful.
- Olive oil: A little fat helps the spices stick and adds richness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the pork.
- Ground cumin: This spice brings a warm, earthy flavor that’s a staple in Mexican cuisine.
- Chili powder: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
- Smoked paprika: This gives a subtle smokiness that complements the pork beautifully.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the meat with a robust flavor.
- Onion: Chopped onions provide sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- Orange juice: The acidity brightens the dish and balances the richness of the pork.
- Lime juice: Adds a zesty kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Bay leaves: These aromatic leaves add a subtle herbal note during cooking.
- Chicken broth: This liquid helps keep the pork moist and adds extra flavor.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
And if you want to switch things up, feel free to use a different cut of pork, like pork butt or even a leaner option like pork loin.
You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Start by taking your pork shoulder and cutting it into large chunks.
In a large bowl, combine the pork with olive oil, salt, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and minced garlic.
Mix everything well, ensuring each piece of pork is coated in those flavorful spices.
This step is crucial; it’s where the magic begins.
The oil helps the spices stick, while the seasonings infuse the meat with rich flavors.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker
Now, let’s get that slow cooker ready.
Start by placing the chopped onions at the bottom of the slow cooker.
This creates a flavorful base for the pork.
Next, add the seasoned pork on top of the onions, spreading it out evenly.
This layering technique allows the onions to caramelize and adds depth to the dish.
It’s a simple step that makes a big difference!
Step 3: Add Juices and Broth
Time to enhance those flavors even more!
Pour the freshly squeezed orange juice and lime juice over the pork.
These citrus juices brighten the dish and balance the richness of the meat.
Then, add the chicken broth, which keeps the pork moist during cooking.
Finally, toss in the bay leaves for that aromatic touch.
This combination will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Step 4: Slow Cook the Pork
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook.
You can choose to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
The goal is to have the pork tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
Check for tenderness about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up.
If it’s not quite there, give it a little more time.
Patience is key for those juicy, melt-in-your-mouth carnitas!
Step 5: Shred the Pork
Once the pork is cooked to perfection, it’s time to shred!
Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it in a large bowl.
Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
Don’t forget to discard the bay leaves; they’ve done their job.
This step is where you can really see the fruits of your labor!
Step 6: Broil for Crispiness
To achieve those crispy edges, preheat your oven broiler.
Spread the shredded pork evenly on a baking sheet.
Broil the pork for about 5-7 minutes, keeping a close eye on it.
You want those edges to turn golden brown and crispy, but not burnt.
This final touch adds a delightful texture that takes your carnitas to the next level!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Now comes the best part—serving your Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas!
You can pile them into warm tortillas for tacos, stuff them into burritos, or serve them over rice.
Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and avocado for extra flavor.
Each bite is a celebration of taste and texture.
Enjoy the smiles and compliments from your family and friends!
Tips for Success
- Always trim excess fat from the pork shoulder for a leaner dish.
- Let the shredded pork rest for a few minutes before broiling for better crispiness.
- Experiment with spices; add your favorites to customize the flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches at least 190°F for perfect shredding.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
- Slow Cooker: A must-have for this recipe; a 6-quart model works great.
- Baking Sheet: For broiling the pork; a rimmed sheet helps catch drippings.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the pork and spices; any large bowl will do.
- Forks: Essential for shredding the pork; two sturdy forks are perfect.
Variations
- Spicy Carnitas: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra kick.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano into the slow cooker for a fragrant twist.
- Smoky Flavor: Use chipotle powder instead of chili powder for a deeper, smoky taste.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pork with jackfruit for a plant-based version that still delivers on flavor.
- Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the salt to make it heart-healthier.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas with warm corn tortillas for authentic tacos.
- Serve alongside Mexican rice and black beans for a complete meal.
- Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and avocado for added flavor.
- Complement with a refreshing margarita or a cold cerveza.
- For presentation, use colorful plates and garnish with lime wedges.
FAQs about Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use pork butt or even pork loin. Just keep in mind that leaner cuts may not be as juicy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I freeze the carnitas?
Yes! These carnitas freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to three months.
What can I serve with carnitas?
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas are versatile! Serve them in tacos, burritos, or over rice. Pair with sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I make the carnitas spicier?
If you like a kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You can also serve with hot salsa or a spicy sauce on the side!
Final Thoughts
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together.
The tender, flavorful pork paired with those crispy edges creates a symphony of taste and texture that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress.
The joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones is what cooking is all about.
So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and savor every bite.
Trust me, this recipe will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas: Discover the Secret Recipe!
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes or 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas is a delicious and easy recipe that results in tender, flavorful pork with crispy edges, perfect for tacos, burritos, or served over rice.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 orange, juiced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the pork shoulder chunks with olive oil, salt, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Mix well to coat the pork evenly with the spices.
- Place the chopped onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top of the onions.
- Pour the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth over the pork. Add the bay leaves.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard the bay leaves.
- Preheat your oven broiler. Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet in an even layer.
- Broil the pork for about 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and browned. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve the crispy carnitas in tacos, burritos, or over rice, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Serve with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and avocado for added flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
