This Easy Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe brings the flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen! Juicy pork cooked slowly until tender, then crisped up to perfection.
Trust me, you’ll love the crunchy bits! I like to pile them on soft tortillas with some fresh toppings. It’s a simple dinner that makes everyone happy—who can resist tacos? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for carnitas due to its marbling and flavor. If you can’t find it, a pork butt or picnic shoulder works well too. Just make sure it’s fatty enough for tenderness!
Orange Juice: It adds a nice sweetness and acidity. If you’re out of it, pineapple juice or lemonade can also be great alternatives to bring that tangy flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice really enhances the flavor. When unavailable, a bit of vinegar can do the trick, though the taste will differ slightly.
Spices: Cumin and oregano are essential for that classic flavor. You can substitute with taco seasoning if you’re short on individual spices, but fresh herbs can brighten the dish if you have access!
How Do I Get the Pork Perfectly Shredded and Crispy?
The slow cooking makes the pork super tender, and shredding is a breeze. Here’s how to get it perfectly ripped and crisped up:
- After cooking, let the pork cool slightly before shredding. Use two forks to pull it apart; it should break apart easily.
- When broiling, make sure the pork is spread out on the baking sheet so it gets that nice, even crunch. Tossing it halfway through helps get every piece crispy.
- Keep an eye on it while broiling! It’s easy for it to go from nicely browned to burnt quickly.
By following these tips, you will have delicious carnitas that everyone will love! Enjoy making this at home.
Easy Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Carnitas:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt), trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving (Optional):
- Diced onion
- Jalapeños
- Shredded cheese
- Avocado slices
- Salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll need to cook the pork in the slow cooker for 8 to 10 hours on low or 5 to 6 hours on high, plus an additional 5-10 minutes to broil it for that delicious crispiness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by placing the cut pork shoulder pieces into your slow cooker. Make sure they fit comfortably without cramming them in too tightly.
2. Mix the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Add the Marinade to the Pork:
Pour the juice and spice mixture over the pork in the slow cooker, then add the chicken broth or water. Make sure the pork is well coated with the marinade.
4. Cook the Pork:
Cover the slow cooker and cook the pork on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 5 to 6 hours, until the pork is very tender and easily shredded. You want it to be melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
5. Shred the Pork:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it in a large bowl. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart easily!
6. Broil for Crispiness:
Preheat your oven broiler on high. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the shredded pork evenly on the baking sheet, trying to include some of the juices for moisture.
7. Get it Crispy:
Broil the pork for 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on it. Toss and spread the meat once or twice to ensure even crisping. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to caramelize and look deliciously crispy!
8. Garnish:
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the crispy pork with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your carnitas hot on warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, cheese, avocado, or salsa. Enjoy your meal!
Dig in and savor the juicy, tender carnitas with crispy edges that make every bite incredibly delicious! Perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply enjoyed on their own!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder (or pork butt) is ideal for its tenderness and fat content, you can also use pork loin or fresh ham. Just keep in mind that these leaner cuts may not yield the same melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How Can I Store Leftover Carnitas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the carnitas in advance. After cooking and shredding, store them in the fridge. Just reheat and broil before serving to get that crispy texture back!
What Can I Serve With the Carnitas?
Carnitas are incredibly versatile! Serve them in tacos, burritos, or nachos. Pair with sides like Mexican rice, beans, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
