This Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas recipe is a lifesaver for busy days! Just throw pork, spices, and some lime juice into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Yummy and simple!
These carnitas are perfect for tacos or burrito bowls. I love how they taste even better the next day. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a meal that practically cooks itself? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for carnitas because it’s fatty and tender when cooked slowly. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless chicken thighs can also work well.
Onion/Garlic: Using yellow onions gives great flavor, but white onions are fine too. For garlic lovers, feel free to add extra cloves for more punch!
Cumin & Oregano: These spices provide that classic Mexican flavor. If you don’t have cumin, taco seasoning can be a great substitute. For oregano, try Italian seasoning as it has similar herbal notes.
Juices: Lime and orange juice brighten the dish. If fresh is unavailable, bottled juice works as well. And if you don’t have orange juice, pineapple juice gives a sweet twist.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but feel free to use flour tortillas if that’s your preference. They’re softer and often easier to wrap!
How Do I Get That Perfect Sear on the Pork?
Searing the pork adds a nice layer of flavor to your carnitas. While it can be skipped in a hurry, it’s worth the time! Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add olive oil, then carefully place the pork in the skillet.
- Allow it to cook undisturbed for a few minutes until a golden crust forms, then turn to brown all sides.
This step enhances the final dish, making the meat more flavorful. Just remember to let it rest a minute before shredding for juicy bites!
How to Make Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 orange, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Tortillas
- Optional toppings: diced avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you can let the crockpot do the rest! You’ll cook the pork for 8 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Pork (Optional):
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork shoulder and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This adds flavor but feel free to skip this step if you’re short on time!
2. Prep the Crockpot:
Place the quartered onion and minced garlic at the bottom of your crockpot. This will give a nice flavor base for the pork as it cooks.
3. Season the Pork:
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, chili powder, lime juice, orange juice, salt, and pepper. Take this flavorful mixture and rub it all over the seared (or unseared) pork shoulder. Make sure to coat it well!
4. Crockpot Assembly:
Now, place the seasoned pork on top of the onion and garlic layers in the crockpot. Make sure it’s all snug and ready to cook!
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You’re looking for the pork to be super tender and easily shreddable. It will smell amazing!
6. Shred the Pork:
Once the cooking time is done, take two forks and shred the pork right in the crockpot. Stir it around to mix in all those delicious juices. It’s going to be mouthwatering!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Now, it’s time to serve! Spoon the carnitas into warm tortillas and top with your choice of optional toppings like diced avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and salsa. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork loin or country-style ribs, but keep in mind they may not be as tender or flavorful as pork shoulder. If using a leaner cut, be cautious not to overcook it, as it can dry out more quickly.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Orange Juice?
No worries! You can substitute orange juice with apple juice or even a mix of water and a bit of sugar for sweetness. If you have fresh or bottled lemon juice, that can work too, but use less to avoid overpowering the dish.
How Do I Store Leftover Carnitas?
Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them! To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a skillet or microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you prefer some heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or more chili powder to the spice mixture. Adjust to your liking for a flavorful kick!
