When the weekend rolls around and my craving for authentic Mexican flavors hits hard, nothing satisfies quite like homemade Carnitas. The aroma of tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder wafting through my kitchen brings a sense of warmth and joy, reminding me of family gatherings and festive celebrations. With just five minutes of prep, this versatile dish transforms into a culinary delight that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply served with a side of rice. What’s more, the balance of rich flavors from the slow cooking paired with a crispy finish makes every bite irresistibly satisfying. If you’re tired of fast food and hungry for something that truly warms the soul, let’s dive into the world of Carnitas and create a dish that’s sure to impress!
Why Are Carnitas a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: With just 5 minutes of hands-on prep time, your slow cooker does all the hard work!
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices, orange juice, and slow cooking creates vibrant, mouthwatering flavors that nourish the soul.
Versatile Dining: Enjoy these delightful Carnitas in tacos, burritos, or even atop a fresh salad for an easy meal any day.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this dish will have friends and family raving about your cooking skills!
Unlock Creativity: Feel free to customize the heat with peppers or swap citrus flavors, making it uniquely yours.
Transform your weekends into a fiesta with this unforgettable recipe!
Carnitas Ingredients
• Perfect your Carnitas with these essential ingredients for a mouthwatering experience.
For the Pork
- Pork Shoulder – This rich cut delivers juicy and tender results when slow-cooked.
- Salt – A must-have to enhance flavor and keep the meat moist during cooking.
- Black Pepper – Adds a dash of warmth and depth to the Pork’s flavor profile.
For the Aromatics
- Onion – Use this aromatic base to provide a savory foundation that mellows during cooking.
- Jalapeño – Introduces a subtle heat, easily adjustable based on your spice preference.
- Garlic – Infuses the dish with a robust aroma and enhances its savory profile.
For the Flavor Boost
- Orange Juice – Vital for tenderizing and adding a hint of delightful sweetness to balance flavors.
- Dried Oregano – This herb brings a fresh, earthy note that complements the richness of the pork.
- Ground Cumin – Introduces warm, earthy tones critical to authentic carnitas flavor.
For the Crispy Finish
- Olive Oil – Essential for pan-frying the shredded pork until it reaches that coveted crispy texture.
How to Make Carnitas
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Prep the Pork: Rinse and dry the pork shoulder thoroughly. Generously season it with salt and black pepper for that initial flavor boost. This step is crucial for tender, flavorful meat.
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Apply the Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the dried oregano and ground cumin. Massage this spice mix all over the pork, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply.
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Layer in Slow Cooker: Position the seasoned pork in your slow cooker with the fat cap facing up. Scatter chopped onion, diced jalapeño, and minced garlic around it, then pour the orange juice over everything for added moisture and sweetness.
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Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 10 hours, or on high for 7 hours. The pork should be fall-apart tender when it’s time to shred.
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Shred the Pork: Gently remove the pork from the slow cooker and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Use two forks to shred the meat into delicious pieces.
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Crisp the Pork: In a skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shredded pork in batches and cook until crispy and golden, drizzling with some of the reserved juices to enhance flavor.
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Serve: Enjoy your homemade Carnitas right away in tacos, burritos, or any of your favorite dishes.
Optional: Add fresh cilantro and lime for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Carnitas are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the pork shoulder by seasoning it with salt, black pepper, and the spice rub up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap the seasoned pork in plastic wrap and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. The aromatics can also be cut and stored in the fridge for the same time frame, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Carnitas, place the pork and aromatics in the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions. This prep-ahead method ensures your weeknight meal is just as mouthwatering and satisfying with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Carnitas
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Pork Selection: Choose pork shoulder over lean cuts. The fat content helps achieve juicy, tender meat that won’t dry out during slow cooking.
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Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and the spice rub. A good seasoning base is key to elevating the flavor profile of your Carnitas.
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Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow for the full slow cook time to ensure tenderness. If pressed for time, consider using a pressure cooker but beware that texture may vary.
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Crisp Up Properly: Ensure you pan-fry the shredded pork until crispy; this step is essential for developing that satisfying crunch combined with tender meat.
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Mind the Juices: When crisping, drizzle reserved cooking juices on the pork for extra flavor. This prevents dryness and enhances that mouthwatering taste.
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Experiment with Heat: Customize the spice level by adjusting jalapeño amounts. Remove seeds for less heat or exchange for bell pepper to cater to milder tastes.
Storage Tips for Carnitas
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Fridge: Store leftover Carnitas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures they remain juicy and flavorful for your next meal.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze shredded Carnitas in heavy-duty freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Carnitas, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and crispy.
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Crisping Reminder: When reheating, drizzle some reserved juices over the Carnitas to maintain moisture and enhance the rich flavors of this beloved dish.
What to Serve with Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork)?
Elevate your homemade Carnitas with delightful side dishes that enhance every bite, creating a memorable dining experience.
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Fresh Corn Tortillas: Soft and warm, they’re perfect for wrapping around your tender Carnitas, offering a comforting bite with each taco.
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Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice: The bright, citrusy flavor of lime and fresh cilantro brightens the rich taste of the pork, creating a refreshing balance.
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Pico de Gallo: This chunky salsa provides a delightful crunch and tang, complementing the savory notes of the Carnitas beautifully.
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Braised Black Beans: With their creamy texture and hearty flavor, black beans provide a satisfying contrast that rounds out the meal.
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Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole adds a luscious touch to your tacos with a cooling effect against the spice.
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Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder will delight your palate and add a fun twist.
Pairing these side dishes with your Carnitas makes for a feast that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition!
Carnitas Variations & Substitutions
Get creative with your homemade carnitas and tailor them to your taste preferences!
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Spicy Twist: Add chopped serrano peppers for a more intense kick, elevating the heat and flavor in every bite. A little spice can completely transform this dish!
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Citrus Swap: Instead of orange juice, try pineapple juice for a unique tropical sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory pork. It’s a delightful twist that surprises your palate!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh cilantro during the last hour of cooking for a refreshing herbal note that brightens up the dish. The aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table!
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Balsamic Glaze: For a sweet and tangy flavor twist, drizzle balsamic glaze over the crispy carnitas right before serving. It adds a sophisticated twist that balances perfectly with the richness of the pork.
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Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a tablespoon of brown sugar into the spice rub to enhance caramelization during cooking, resulting in a mouthwatering sweet crust.
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Vegetarian Style: Substitute the pork with jackfruit for a plant-based option. Use the same spices and slow-cook it to create a similar texture. Even non-vegetarians will appreciate this twist!
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Rich & Creamy: After cooking, stir in a few tablespoons of sour cream or crema before serving for a rich, creamy texture that adds depth to the carnitas.
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Southern Flair: Spice up your carnitas with a pinch of Cajun seasoning for a unique flavor fusion that’s bound to be a conversation starter at your next gathering.
Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork) Recipe FAQs
What type of pork should I use for Carnitas?
Absolutely! For the best results, always choose pork shoulder. It’s rich in fat and provides the tender, juicy texture we crave in carnitas. Avoid lean cuts like pork tenderloin, as they can dry out easily during the slow cooking process.
How long can I store leftover Carnitas in the fridge?
You can store your shredded carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed helps maintain their moisture and flavor, making them perfect for quick meals later in the week.
Can I freeze Carnitas, and if so, how?
Definitely! To freeze carnitas, allow them to cool completely before portioning them into heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight containers. Press out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet!
What if my Carnitas turn out dry?
If you notice that your carnitas have dried out, don’t worry! This can happen if they are overcooked. To salvage your dish, try adding a splash of chicken broth or some of the reserved cooking juices during a brief reheat on the stovetop. Stir well to incorporate the moisture back, and serve them as soft tacos or burritos to balance the textures.
Can I adjust the spice levels in the Carnitas?
Very much so! If you want to adjust the heat, you can easily add less jalapeño or remove the seeds for a milder dish. Alternatively, swap jalapeños out for bell peppers for a completely different flavor without the heat. Customize it to your taste!
Are Carnitas safe for pets?
It’s best to avoid feeding your pets Carnitas due to the seasonings and spices used, as some of them, like garlic, can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always consult with your vet if you’re unsure about feeding your pets human food.
Mouthwatering Carnitas: Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse and dry the pork shoulder thoroughly. Generously season it with salt and black pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix together the dried oregano and ground cumin. Massage this spice mix all over the pork.
- Position the seasoned pork in your slow cooker with the fat cap facing up. Scatter onion, jalapeño, and garlic around it. Pour the orange juice over everything.
- Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 10 hours, or on high for 7 hours until the pork is fall-apart tender.
- Gently remove the pork from the slow cooker and allow it to cool slightly before shredding with forks.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shredded pork in batches and cook until crispy, drizzling with reserved juices.
- Serve your homemade Carnitas in tacos, burritos, or your favorite dishes.