The aroma of slow-cooked pork wafts through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. This is the moment when all your culinary dreams come true with every tender bite of slow cooker carnitas.
Picture this: you gather around the table with family and friends, each bite bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a casual Sunday dinner, these carnitas are ready to steal the show and leave everyone begging for your secret recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This slow cooker carnitas dish offers a flavor explosion that will have you dreaming about your next meal.
- With minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- The vibrant colors and rich textures make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
- Ideal for tacos but versatile enough to be served over rice or in burritos.
I remember the first time I made these carnitas; my family devoured them in record time and begged for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pork Shoulder: Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum flavor; it transforms beautifully during cooking.
Onions: Sweet onions add depth; chop them finely to release their natural sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they create an aromatic base that elevates the dish.
Cumin: Ground cumin brings warmth and earthiness; don’t skip this spice for authentic flavor.
Oregano: Use dried oregano for herbaceous notes; it complements the pork perfectly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; sprinkle it on just before serving for an extra zing.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice balances the richness; squeeze it over right before digging in.
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all those luscious flavors throughout cooking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Carnitas
Prep Your Pork: First, trim excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cut it into large chunks; this helps with even cooking and tender results.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a skillet, sauté chopped onions until translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic until aromatic, which takes about 1-2 minutes.
Add Spices and Citrus: Sprinkle in cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper over the pork pieces, then squeeze half of a lime’s juice directly onto them for zesty goodness.
Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker: Transfer everything—the pork, sautéed onions, garlic, and spices—into your slow cooker. Pour in a splash of water or broth to keep things juicy.
Cook Low and Slow: Set your slow cooker on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The goal is tender meat that shreds effortlessly with a fork.
Shred and Crisp Up (Optional): Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks. For extra crispiness, broil it in an oven for 5-10 minutes until edges are crispy perfection.
And there you have it! Each step is simple yet effective—trust me when I say your kitchen will smell divine as these carnitas cook away!
Now you’re ready to serve up those heavenly slow cooker carnitas! Enjoy them tucked inside warm tortillas topped with fresh cilantro and lime juice or over fluffy rice if you’re feeling adventurous.
Bon appétit!
You Must Know
- Slow Cooker Carnitas will transform your weeknight dinners into fiesta-worthy feasts.
- The tender, flavorful pork practically melts in your mouth, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table.
- Perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply enjoying on its own!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the pork and searing it in a hot pan for rich flavor. Then, place it in the slow cooker with aromatics and let it cook low and slow for maximum tenderness and taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different citrus juices or add fresh herbs for a unique twist. Experimenting with spices can also elevate the flavor profile—try adding chipotle or smoked paprika for a kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover carnitas in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through—no one likes cold carnitas.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the juiciest carnitas, opt for a fatty cut of pork like shoulder.
- Avoid opening the slow cooker lid during cooking; this releases heat and affects cooking time.
- Lastly, let the meat rest before shredding—it makes all the difference!
Sharing my first experience making Slow Cooker Carnitas was hilarious. When I pulled out that fork to shred the meat, my friends thought I was auditioning for a cooking show—pork flying everywhere!
FAQ
What type of meat is best for Slow Cooker Carnitas?
Pork shoulder or pork butt works perfectly because of its fat content.
Can I make Slow Cooker Carnitas ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well and actually tastes better after sitting overnight.
How do I serve Slow Cooker Carnitas?
Serve them in tacos, burritos, or over rice with your favorite toppings.
Slow Cooker Carnitas
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of Slow Cooker Carnitas—perfectly tender pork shoulder slow-cooked to perfection. This dish bursts with authentic taste thanks to a blend of spices and fresh ingredients. Whether stuffed in warm tortillas for Taco Tuesday or served over rice for a comforting family meal, these carnitas are sure to impress. Minimal prep and maximum flavor make this recipe a weeknight winner!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup water or broth
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks.
- In a skillet, sauté chopped onions until translucent; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Season pork with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper; squeeze lime juice over meat.
- Transfer pork to the slow cooker along with sautéed onions, garlic, and water/broth.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until fork-tender.
- Shred the pork with two forks; for crispiness, broil in the oven for 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/2 cup (125g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, sear the pork before slow cooking. Experiment with citrus juices like orange or grapefruit for a different twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.
