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Mia

Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas: Enjoy Perfectly Juicy Tacos!

Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas are perfectly juicy and flavorful, ideal for tacos.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds pork shoulder cut into large chunks
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1 onion quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic smashed

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and chili powder. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder pieces.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chunks on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  3. Transfer the seared pork to the slow cooker. Add the orange juice, lime juice, quartered onion, and smashed garlic.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
  5. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
  6. Preheat your oven broiler. Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet in an even layer.
  7. Broil the pork for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and browned. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
  8. Serve the crispy carnitas in tortillas with your favorite toppings, such as cilantro, diced onions, avocado, and lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mg

Notes

  • For added flavor, marinate the pork in the spice mixture overnight before cooking.
  • Try adding a few bay leaves to the slow cooker for extra depth of flavor.

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