Slow Cooker Carnitas

Slow Cooker Carnitas offer a delightful fusion of tender, slow-cooked pork with crispy edges, making them a versatile addition to various dishes such as tacos, burritos, and salads. This recipe simplifies the traditional Mexican preparation, allowing you to achieve rich flavors and textures with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Utilising a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, returning hours later to perfectly cooked pork.
• Versatility: The shredded pork can be used in numerous dishes, from tacos to rice bowls.
• Authentic Flavour: A blend of spices and citrus juices infuses the meat with traditional Mexican flavours.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe yields a generous amount, making it ideal for family dinners or parties.
• Freezer-Friendly: Leftovers can be frozen for future meals, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4–5 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 bay leaves

Directions

1. Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, approximately 1–2 minutes per side. Transfer the pork to a large slow cooker.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, lime juice, chipotle chili powder, chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves to the slow cooker with the pork.
3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard the bay leaves.
5. Broil for Crispiness: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Spread the shredded pork in an even layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the meat. Broil for 5 minutes, or until the edges are crispy. Remove from the oven, toss the pork, add more juices, and broil for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve: Use the crispy carnitas as a filling for tacos, burritos, or serve over rice with your favourite toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 8–10 servings
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high
• Total Time: Approximately 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Carnitas: Add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of chipotle chili powder for extra heat.
• Citrus Twist: Incorporate orange juice along with lime juice for a sweeter citrus flavour.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme during the last hour of cooking for an aromatic touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and edges are crispy, or in the microwave for a quicker option.

FAQs

How do I prevent the carnitas from drying out when reheating?

To retain moisture, reheat the carnitas with a splash of the reserved cooking juices or a bit of chicken broth.

Can I make this recipe without searing the pork?

Yes, while searing adds flavour, you can skip this step for convenience. The slow cooker will still produce tender and flavorful meat.

What can I use instead of chipotle chili powder?

Smoked paprika or a combination of regular chili powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper can be used as substitutes.

Is it necessary to broil the pork after slow cooking?

Broiling adds a desirable crispiness to the carnitas, but it’s optional. The pork is delicious even without this step.

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Pork shoulder or pork butt is preferred for its fat content, but pork loin can be used for a leaner option, though it may be less tender.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Increase the amount of chipotle chili powder or add diced jalapeños to the slow cooker.

What are some serving suggestions?

Serve carnitas in tacos, burritos, over rice, or in salads. They also make a great topping for nachos.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can cook and shred the pork ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and broil just before serving.

How do I know when the pork is done?

The pork is done when it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Can I use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the pork in a pressure cooker on high pressure for about 30 minutes, then follow the broiling step for crispiness.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Carnitas provide a flavorful and versatile option for meals, combining the ease of slow cooking with the rich tastes of traditional Mexican cuisine. Whether served in tacos, over rice, or in salads, this dish is sure to become a favourite in your recipe collection.

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