Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the mouthwatering flavors of New Crock Pot Mexican Carnitas! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a fiesta of succulent pork shoulder, aromatic spices, and zesty citrus that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico. Imagine coming home after a long day to the irresistible scent of tender, slow-cooked carnitas wafting through your kitchen. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a hands-off cooking process, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a dish that will impress your family and friends. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure—read on to discover how to make the best carnitas you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut into large 2-3 inch chunks, ensuring even sizing for consistent cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a seasoning mix.
- Rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly over each piece of pork, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Place the seasoned pork chunks into the crock pot, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
- Pour orange juice and fresh lime juice over the pork, ensuring the meat is partially covered with liquid.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat, allowing the carnitas to slow cook for 8 hours until the meat becomes tender and easily shreds.
- Once cooking is complete, remove the pork and shred using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Optional: For crispy edges, spread shredded meat on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until edges become slightly crisp.
- Serve hot with warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for a well-marbled pork shoulder for the best flavor and tenderness. The fat helps keep the meat juicy during the long cooking process.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Make sure to rub the spice mixture thoroughly over every piece of pork to enhance the flavor profile.
- Layer the Ingredients: If your crock pot allows, arrange the pork in a single layer for even cooking. This helps ensure that each piece gets the benefit of the juices and seasonings.
- Use Fresh Citrus: Freshly squeezed lime and orange juice will elevate the dish’s flavor. The acidity helps tenderize the meat while adding a bright, zesty kick.
- Shred and Crisp: For an extra layer of texture, after shredding the meat, spread it on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes to achieve crispy edges. This step adds a delightful crunch to your carnitas.
- Serve with Fresh Toppings: Complement your carnitas with warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges for a complete and authentic Mexican experience.
- Make It Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! The carnitas can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 125mg
