Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of making crispy slow cooker carnitas! There’s something so satisfying about coming home to the smell of tender, flavorful pork that’s been simmering away all day. It’s the perfect dish for gatherings, too—everyone loves a good taco bar! Plus, the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients transform into a delicious, crunchy topping that elevates any meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Ingredients List

• 4 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed of excess fat
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed for the best flavor
• 1 lime, juiced

How to Prepare Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas

Let’s dive into the magic of how to make these crispy slow cooker carnitas! This recipe is one of those where the steps are super simple, but the results are nothing short of amazing. You’re just going to love this!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder. This will help prevent the carnitas from being too greasy. A little bit of fat is fine, but we want to keep it balanced.
2. Next, in a small bowl, mix together the salt, cumin, and chili powder until well combined. This spice blend is where the flavor magic starts!
3. Now, rub that glorious spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s evenly coated. Don’t be shy—get in there and massage it in!
4. In your slow cooker, place the quartered onion and minced garlic at the bottom. This adds an incredible aroma and flavor as it cooks.
5. Carefully place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onion and garlic. It’s like a little flavor nest!
6. Now, pour the fresh orange juice and lime juice all over the pork. This juicy goodness will help tenderize the meat and add a zesty kick.
7. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. Yes, 8 hours! This is where the magic happens, so go about your day and let the slow cooker do its thing.
8. Once the time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. It should fall apart beautifully!
9. For that crispy texture we all love, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and pop it under the broiler for about 5–10 minutes. Keep an eye on it—this is where it gets that irresistible crunch!

And just like that, you’ve got crispy slow cooker carnitas that are ready to be devoured! Enjoy the process and the incredible flavors that fill your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set everything up and let the slow cooker do the hard work for you!
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of spices, citrus, and tender pork creates a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These carnitas are great to make ahead of time and store for easy weeknight dinners or for a quick snack.
• Versatile for Different Meals: Use them in tacos, burritos, salads, or even on nachos—these carnitas fit into any meal plan!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good taco night, making this dish a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick and delicious meal later on!

Tips for Success

Now, let me share some of my best tips to ensure your crispy slow cooker carnitas turn out absolutely perfect every time!

• Adjust the Spices: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spice blend to suit your taste! If you love a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a smoky kick. Taste as you go!
• Check the Pork: Make sure your pork shoulder is cooked until it’s fork-tender. It should shred easily without any resistance. If it feels tough, give it more time—trust me, it’s worth it!
• Broil for Crispiness: When broiling the shredded pork, keep a close eye on it! Broilers can be sneaky and burn quickly. A few minutes is all you need for that perfect crispy texture.
• Let it Rest: After shredding the pork, allow it to rest for a few minutes before broiling. This helps to retain moisture and makes for juicier carnitas!
• Use Fresh Citrus: For the best flavor, always use fresh orange and lime juice. The difference in taste is incredible, and it really brightens up the dish!
• Don’t Skip the Onions and Garlic: These aromatics are key to building flavor, so make sure to use them! They infuse the pork with deliciousness as it cooks.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the most mouthwatering crispy slow cooker carnitas that your friends and family will rave about!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying delicious crispy slow cooker carnitas, it’s always good to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 30g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. It’s always a good idea to check the labels for the most accurate information. Enjoy your cooking and the tasty results!

FAQ Section

I’ve gathered some common questions I get about crispy slow cooker carnitas, and I’m here to help clear things up! Let’s dive into it!

Can I use a different cut of meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is my go-to for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork butt or even boneless ribs. Just remember, the cooking time may vary slightly based on the cut you choose.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
No worries! You can make these carnitas in the oven. Just place the seasoned pork in a tightly covered Dutch oven, add the juices, and cook at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours until it’s tender. Just keep an eye on it and add a splash of water if it looks dry!

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the shredded carnitas for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing!

How do I reheat the carnitas?
For the best texture, I suggest reheating in the oven. Just spread the carnitas on a baking sheet and pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them regain that crispy goodness! You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a quicker option.

What are some great ways to serve these carnitas?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can serve them in soft or crunchy tacos, burritos, or on top of nachos. They’re also fantastic in salads or even as a filling for quesadillas. Don’t forget to top them with your favorite toppings like avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime!

Can I make a smaller batch?
Definitely! You can scale down the recipe to make less. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly and keep an eye on the cooking time; it may be a little shorter if you’re using less meat.

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. Enjoy your crispy slow cooker carnitas adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After enjoying your delicious crispy slow cooker carnitas, you might find yourself with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Storing them properly will keep those flavors intact for your next meal! Here’s how to do it:

First things first, let the carnitas cool completely at room temperature before storing. Once cool, transfer the shredded pork into an airtight container. I recommend dividing them into smaller portions if you think you’ll be snacking throughout the week. This makes it super easy to grab and go!

You can keep your leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. But if you want to enjoy them for a longer time, they freeze beautifully! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, and press out as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer!

When you’re ready to reheat, I’ve got some tips to ensure they’re just as tasty as when you first made them. For the best texture, I suggest using the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the carnitas on a baking sheet, and heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them regain that crispy goodness!

If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Just add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, and stir occasionally until heated through. Whichever method you choose, be sure to enjoy your reheated carnitas with your favorite toppings or sides!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up some crispy slow cooker carnitas, let’s talk about how to serve them up for maximum deliciousness! Trust me, the possibilities are endless, and you can really get creative with your serving options!

First off, tacos are an absolute classic! Load up some warm corn or flour tortillas with those crispy carnitas, and don’t forget to top them with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for that burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw on some avocado or a zesty salsa!

Burritos are another fantastic way to enjoy these carnitas. Just wrap them in a large tortilla with rice, beans, cheese, and your favorite toppings for a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy. You can even make a burrito bowl by layering everything in a bowl instead of a tortilla—great for a lighter option!

If you’re in the mood for something different, try serving the carnitas over a bed of nachos! Just layer some tortilla chips with the shredded pork, sprinkle on cheese, jalapeños, and pop it in the oven until everything’s melty. Top with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack!

For a fresh and healthy twist, consider a carnitas salad. Toss some greens with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and avocado, then add the crispy carnitas on top. Drizzle with a lime vinaigrette, and you’ve got a delightful meal that’s light yet packed with flavor!

Lastly, don’t forget about sides! These carnitas pair beautifully with Mexican rice, refried beans, or even grilled corn on the cob. You can also serve them with a side of slaw for some crunch or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the pork.

Whatever you choose, I promise these crispy slow cooker carnitas will shine as the star of your meal! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas: 8 Irresistible Flavor Tips

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Crispy slow cooker carnitas made with flavorful pork.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 lime, juiced

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Instructions

1. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder.
2. Mix salt, cumin, and chili powder in a bowl.
3. Rub the spice mixture over the pork.
4. Place onion and garlic in the slow cooker.
5. Add the pork on top of the onion and garlic.
6. Pour orange juice and lime juice over the pork.
7. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
8. Remove pork and shred it with two forks.
9. Broil shredded pork for 5-10 minutes for crispiness.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Great for tacos or burritos.
• Adjust spices to your taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Main dish
• Method: Slow cooker
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: crispy slow cooker carnitas