This Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas is all about tender, flavor-packed meat that’s perfect for tacos or burritos. Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do all the work!
The best part? Your house will smell amazing while it cooks! I love loading my tacos with fresh toppings—it’s like a fiesta in every bite. 🌮🎉
It’s so simple to make! I just set it and forget it, then enjoy a tasty meal without all the fuss. Perfect for busy days when you still want something delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This is the star of the dish, famous for becoming tender during cooking. If you can’t find pork shoulder, pork loin can work, but it may not be as juicy. You can also use beef chuck for a different flavor.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives a bright flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice can work too. I’ve even used pineapple juice for a twist! Just remember that sweetness can vary.
Chicken Broth: It adds flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a lighter touch, vegetable broth is a great substitute. You can even use water with a dash of salt in a pinch!
Tortillas: I prefer corn tortillas for their authentic taste, but flour tortillas are a suitable replacement. If you’re watching carbs, lettuce wraps can be a low-carb option!
How Do I Get Perfectly Shredded Pork?
Shredding the pork might seem tricky, but it’s super easy once you know how! The key is to let it cook long enough. Here’s how:
- Cook the pork until it’s fork-tender, around 8-10 hours on low.
- Once done, use two forks to pull apart the meat – it should come apart effortlessly!
- Mix the shredded pork back in with the juices to soak up that delicious flavor.
For extra enjoyment, broiling the shredded pork for a few minutes adds a crispy texture that really enhances the dish. Just watch it closely!
How to Make Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For The Flavor:
- 1 orange, juiced (zest can also be added)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- 1 cup chicken broth
For Serving:
- 8-10 small tortillas
- Optional garnishes: lime wedges, avocado, cilantro, salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 15 minutes for prep and then 8-10 hours to cook on low in the crockpot (or 4-6 hours on high). Just set it and forget it while you go about your day, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready when you return!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
First, pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. If it’s too large for your crockpot, cut it into big chunks. This will help it cook evenly and fit nicely in your slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step adds great flavor!
3. Mix Everything in the Crockpot:
Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic into the crockpot. In a separate bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture over the pork in the crockpot.
4. Add Broth and Cook:
Next, pour in the chicken broth, making sure the pork is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The pork should be tender and easy to shred when done!
5. Shred the Pork:
Once the pork is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly inside the crockpot. This helps mix the meat with the delicious juices for maximum flavor!
6. Optional Crisping:
If you want an extra crunchy texture, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for about 5-10 minutes until the edges are crispy. It’s not necessary but definitely adds a wonderful touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Warm up your tortillas and fill them with the juicy carnitas. Add any optional garnishes you like, such as lime wedges, avocado, cilantro, or salsa. Enjoy your meal! It’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its marbling and flavor, you can also use pork loin or pork tenderloin. Keep in mind that these cuts are leaner and may dry out more easily, so reduce the cooking time accordingly and keep an eye on the pork.
What Can I Substitute for Orange Juice?
If you don’t have orange juice, you can use apple juice for a sweeter flavor or a mix of vinegar and water for a tangier twist. In a pinch, you could also use a splash of pineapple juice, which will add a nice tropical note to the carnitas.
How Do I Store Leftover Carnitas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the shredded pork in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! To add some heat, consider including chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You can also serve it with your favorite hot sauce to spice up your servings!
