Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
Ingredients
- 3-4 pound pork shoulder (butt), cut into 2-3 inch chunks
- 1 large orange, quartered
- 1 lime, quartered
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4-6 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, for searing (optional)
Step-by-Step
1. Pat the pork shoulder chunks dry with paper towels. This helps with browning.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pork with oregano, cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Optional: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork in batches until browned on all sides. This enhances flavor.
4. Place the onion, orange, and lime quarters in the bottom of your slow cooker.
5. Add the smashed garlic cloves on top of the citrus and onion.
6. Arrange the seasoned pork chunks on top of the onion, citrus, and garlic.
7. Pour the chicken broth or water over the pork.
8. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily shreds.
9. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker with a slotted spoon and place it in a large bowl. Discard the citrus, onion, and garlic from the slow cooker.
10. Use two forks to shred the pork.
11. Optional: For extra crispy carnitas, preheat your oven to broil. Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet.
12. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the edges are crispy, watching carefully to prevent burning. Alternatively, crisp the pork in a skillet with a little oil over medium-high heat.
13. Serve the carnitas immediately. Enjoy in tacos, burritos, salads, or bowls.
The Secret to the Best Slow Cooker Carnitas
Choosing the Right Pork
Pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, is the ideal cut for carnitas. It has a high fat content, which renders during the long cooking process, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful pork.
The fat bastes the meat from the inside out, keeping it moist and succulent. Don’t trim too much fat before cooking, as this is key to the authentic carnitas flavor and texture.
You can find pork shoulder at most grocery stores or butcher shops. Don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for advice.
Flavor Building: Beyond the Basics
While salt, pepper, and cumin are essential, the true magic of carnitas lies in layering flavors. The combination of citrus (orange and lime), aromatic spices (oregano, cinnamon, and cloves), and the subtle heat of chili powder creates a complex and irresistible taste.
Don’t skip the fresh aromatics like onion and garlic. They infuse the pork with a savory depth that you can’t achieve with spices alone.
The optional searing step also adds a significant boost to the flavor profile. The Maillard reaction, which occurs when the pork browns, creates hundreds of new flavor compounds that enhance the overall taste.
The Slow Cooking Process
Slow cooking is crucial for breaking down the tough connective tissue in the pork shoulder, resulting in fall-apart tender carnitas. Cooking on low for 7-8 hours allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours, but the low and slow method is generally preferred for optimal tenderness.
Avoid opening the slow cooker lid frequently during cooking, as this releases heat and extends the cooking time.
Achieving Crispy Perfection
While slow cooking creates tender carnitas, the crispy edges are what truly elevate them. There are two main methods for achieving this: broiling and pan-frying.
Broiling is a quick and easy option. Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The high heat will quickly crisp up the edges.
Pan-frying involves heating a skillet with a little oil over medium-high heat and cooking the shredded pork until it’s golden brown and crispy. This method allows for more control over the crispiness.
Serving Suggestions and Creative Twists
Carnitas are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. The most classic preparation is in tacos, served with your favorite toppings like cilantro, onion, salsa, and guacamole.
They’re also delicious in burritos, bowls, and salads. Consider adding them to nachos, quesadillas, or even topping a pizza.
For a creative twist, try adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the shredded pork before crisping it up. You could also experiment with different spice combinations, such as adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky flavor.
Essential Tips for Slow Cooker Success
Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker
Ensure the pork is arranged in a single layer in the slow cooker. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less tender results. If necessary, cook in batches.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste
The amount of salt and pepper may need to be adjusted depending on your personal preferences and the sodium content of your chicken broth. Taste the shredded pork after cooking and add more seasoning as needed.
Use a Meat Thermometer
While not always necessary, using a meat thermometer can ensure the pork is cooked to the correct temperature. Aim for an internal temperature of 195-205°F for optimal tenderness.
Don’t Discard the Cooking Liquid
While you discard the solids, the cooking liquid is full of flavor. You can skim off the excess fat and use the remaining liquid to moisten the shredded pork or as a base for a sauce.
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage
Carnitas are a great make-ahead dish. You can cook the pork in the slow cooker a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Before serving, simply shred and crisp it up using your preferred method.
Leftover carnitas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Variations and Adaptations
Spicy Carnitas
Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the slow cooker for a spicy kick. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Citrus-Forward Carnitas
Use a combination of orange, lime, and grapefruit for a more complex citrus flavor. Add the zest of the citrus fruits for an extra burst of aroma.
Smoked Carnitas
Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the spice blend for a smoky flavor. You can also use a liquid smoke product, but be careful not to overdo it, as it can be overpowering.
Sweet and Savory Carnitas
Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the slow cooker for a touch of sweetness. This complements the savory spices and creates a delicious balance of flavors.
Instant Pot Carnitas
While this recipe is for a slow cooker, you can easily adapt it for an Instant Pot. Sear the pork using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 45-60 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.
Serving Suggestions & Creative Presentations
Taco Bar Extravaganza
Create a DIY taco bar with various toppings, including shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, diced onions, cilantro, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese. Let your guests customize their own tacos.
Carnitas Bowls with Cilantro-Lime Rice
Serve the carnitas over cilantro-lime rice with black beans, corn, avocado, and a drizzle of chipotle mayo. This is a healthy and flavorful meal option.
Carnitas Quesadillas with a Twist
Fill tortillas with shredded carnitas, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then grill or pan-fry until golden brown and crispy. Serve with a side of salsa or guacamole.
Carnitas Nachos Supreme
Layer tortilla chips with shredded carnitas, cheese, black beans, corn, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings, then bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Carnitas Salad with a Tangy Vinaigrette
Top a bed of mixed greens with shredded carnitas, avocado, tomato, cucumber, red onion, and a tangy vinaigrette. This is a light and refreshing way to enjoy carnitas.
Nutritional Information and Considerations
Protein Powerhouse
Pork carnitas are a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
Fat Content
Pork shoulder is a fatty cut of meat, so carnitas can be high in fat. However, much of the fat renders during the slow cooking process, reducing the overall fat content. You can also trim excess fat before cooking to further reduce the fat content.
Sodium Awareness
Be mindful of the sodium content of your chicken broth and adjust the amount of salt accordingly. Using a low-sodium chicken broth can help reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Carbohydrate Considerations
Carnitas themselves are low in carbohydrates, but the toppings and accompaniments you choose can add carbs to your meal. Opt for low-carb options like lettuce wraps or cauliflower rice to keep the carb count down.
Healthier Alternatives
For a healthier version of carnitas, consider using a leaner cut of pork, such as pork loin. However, keep in mind that this will result in less tender and flavorful carnitas. You can also use a smaller amount of oil when searing the pork or skip the searing step altogether.
FAQ About Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
Can I use a different cut of pork?
While pork shoulder is ideal, you can use pork loin or pork tenderloin. However, these cuts are leaner and may result in drier carnitas. If using a leaner cut, consider adding a little extra liquid to the slow cooker.
How do I prevent my carnitas from being dry?
Use a cut of pork with a good amount of fat, such as pork shoulder. Don’t trim too much fat before cooking. Cook on low heat for a longer period of time. Don’t overcook the pork. Add enough liquid to the slow cooker.
Can I make carnitas ahead of time?
Yes, carnitas are a great make-ahead dish. You can cook the pork in the slow cooker a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Before serving, simply shred and crisp it up.
How do I store leftover carnitas?
Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
What are some good toppings for carnitas tacos?
Popular toppings for carnitas tacos include cilantro, onion, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, and lettuce.
