Slow Cooker Carnitas is a succulent, tender, and flavorful Mexican dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe involves slow-cooking seasoned pork until it falls apart, allowing the flavors to meld and develop a rich taste. The result is a versatile dish that can be used in tacos, burritos, or served over rice. With its hands-off cooking style, this carnitas recipe is not just delicious but also incredibly convenient for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this slow cooker carnitas recipe for its incredible depth of flavor and ease of preparation. The slow cooking process allows the pork to become meltingly tender while absorbing the aromatic spices and citrus. This recipe fits seamlessly into various lifestyles, whether you’re meal prepping for the week, entertaining friends, or simply seeking comfort food. With minimal active cooking time, you can set it and forget it, making it ideal for busy cooks who want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Opt for pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) because its fat content keeps the meat juicy and flavorful during the long cooking process.
- Sear for Extra Flavor: Before placing the meat in the slow cooker, sear it in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side. This adds a deeper flavor through the Maillard reaction.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a more vibrant flavor. Fresh oregano and thyme can elevate the dish significantly.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier carnitas, add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the slow cooker.
- Shred the Meat with Ease: Use two forks to shred the meat easily once it’s cooked. Alternatively, you can use a hand mixer on low speed for quick shredding.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the carnitas in advance by mixing the spices and cutting the pork a day ahead. Store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. Cooked carnitas can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, store in airtight containers or freezer bags, and make sure to label them with the date.
Recipe Variations
- Different Meats: Swap pork for chicken thighs or beef chuck for a different take on carnitas.
- Flavor Profiles: Experiment with adding chipotle peppers for a smoky flavor or pineapple juice for a sweet twist.
- Alternate Cooking Methods: If you’re short on time, consider using an Instant Pot to cook the carnitas in about an hour instead of slow cooking for 8 hours.
How to Serve
Serve your slow cooker carnitas in warm corn or flour tortillas topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. For a heartier meal, serve it over rice or in a burrito bowl with black beans, corn, and avocado. A sprinkle of cotija cheese adds a delightful creaminess, and don’t forget to garnish with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your slow cooker carnitas with a refreshing margarita or a cold cerveza for a true fiesta experience. For non-alcoholic options, iced hibiscus tea or a fresh limeade complements the flavors beautifully. As for side dishes, consider serving with Mexican street corn, guacamole, or a vibrant salsa fresca.
How to Store
Store any leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the carnitas in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (a 6-quart is ideal)
- Skillet for searing (optional but recommended)
- Two forks for shredding the meat
- Airtight containers for storage
Dietary Adaptations
To make this carnitas recipe allergen-friendly, ensure your spices are gluten-free and avoid any cross-contamination. For a vegan option, substitute the pork with jackfruit, seasoning it the same way and slow cooking until tender. If you need a dairy-free version, simply omit any cheese or dairy toppings.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, consider adding fresh corn or tomatoes to the carnitas right before serving for a burst of color and flavor. In winter, use hearty root vegetables like carrots or parsnips as a base in the slow cooker to elevate the dish and add warmth.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, while pork shoulder is recommended for its fat content, you can use pork loin, but be aware that it may dry out more easily.
- How long does it take to cook?
Cooking on low for 8 hours is ideal, but you can cook on high for about 4-5 hours if you’re short on time.
- Can I skip searing the meat?
While you can skip this step, searing adds a depth of flavor that enhances the final dish.
How To Make slow cooker carnitas recipe
Slow Cooker Carnitas
Slow Cooker Carnitas is a succulent, tender, and flavorful Mexican dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- Juice of 1 orange
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Prep the Pork: Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks and pat dry with paper towels.
- Sear the Meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the seared pork pieces.
- Place in Slow Cooker: Transfer the pork to the slow cooker. Add the quartered onion, minced garlic, lime juice, orange juice, and bay leaf.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Crisp the Meat: Preheat your broiler. Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes until crispy, stirring halfway through.
- Serve: Serve warm with your favorite tortillas and toppings.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 738Total Fat 51gSaturated Fat 18gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 28gCholesterol 204mgSodium 486mgCarbohydrates 15gFiber 2gSugar 10gProtein 54g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making slow cooker carnitas is a rewarding experience that brings authentic flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether you serve it for a casual family dinner or at a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and sides to personalize your meal. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of these delicious carnitas!
