Authentic Slow Cooker Carnitas: Your Ultimate Guide to Flavorful Mexican Pulled Pork
Discover the secret to incredibly tender, rich, and flavorful Mexican pulled pork with this essential Slow Cooker Carnitas recipe. Perfect for any Mexican-inspired dish, these carnitas are surprisingly easy to prepare, letting your slow cooker do all the hard work while infusing your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
There’s something truly magical about slow-cooker meals. They promise minimal effort and maximum reward, transforming humble ingredients into culinary masterpieces. This carnitas recipe exemplifies that magic. With just a few minutes of prep, you can simply toss all the ingredients into your crock pot and return home to a kitchen filled with the inviting scent of slow-cooked perfection. The result? Succulent, fall-apart tender pork, ready to be shredded and enjoyed in countless delicious ways.
My deep appreciation for Mexican cuisine began with many visits to a vibrant Mexican grocery store in South Omaha. It’s a treasure trove of authentic products, offering a delightful array of items you simply won’t find in typical supermarkets. But the true gem of this store is its “deli counter” – though calling it a deli doesn’t quite capture its essence. It’s a bustling hub where you can find the most incredible homemade salsas, fresh chips, savory tamales, rich enchiladas, perfectly roasted whole chickens, aromatic Mexican rice, and, of course, the star of the show: carnitas. Their carnitas burritos are legendary; we always grab one for the ride home, perfectly wrapped and accompanied by a cold Jarritos soda, opened right at the checkout. It’s a little slice of culinary heaven that fueled my passion for creating an equally authentic and delicious carnitas recipe for everyone to enjoy at home.
Why This Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe Will Become Your Favorite
This isn’t just another pulled pork recipe; it’s a gateway to authentic Mexican flavors with unparalleled ease. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with these slow cooker carnitas:
- Effortless Preparation: The beauty of a slow cooker lies in its hands-off approach. After minimal initial preparation, your crockpot does all the heavy lifting. You simply set it and forget it, returning hours later to perfectly cooked, tender meat. Waiting for the irresistible aroma to fill your home might just be the hardest part!
- Simple, Accessible Ingredients: Beyond a quality cut of pork, you’ll find most of the ingredients are pantry staples. Common spices, fresh aromatics, and a touch of citrus combine to create a deeply satisfying flavor profile without requiring exotic or hard-to-find items.
- Budget-Friendly: Pork shoulder, often available at an economical price, transforms into a hearty and satisfying meal that can feed a crowd or provide delicious leftovers for days. It’s an ideal choice for feeding your family well without breaking the bank.
- Incredible Flavor & Texture: Slow cooking allows the pork to braise in its own juices and seasonings, resulting in exceptionally moist, tender meat that practically melts in your mouth. The optional step of broiling after shredding adds those coveted crispy, caramelized edges that define authentic carnitas.
- Versatile Meal Base: Carnitas are incredibly versatile. They serve as a fantastic base for tacos, burritos, bowls, salads, and so much more, making them a meal prep dream come true.
If you’re a fan of succulent slow-cooked pork, you might also enjoy these other delightful recipes: Slow Cooker Buffalo Pulled Pork for a spicy kick, or Dorothy’s Pulled Pork in the Crockpot for a classic, comforting option.
Unleashing the Versatility: How to Serve Slow Cooker Carnitas
Once your slow cooker carnitas are ready, a world of culinary possibilities opens up. The tender, flavorful pork can be the star of countless meals. Here are some of the most popular and delicious ways to enjoy them:
- Carnitas Tacos: The classic choice! Simply warm tortillas, add shredded carnitas, and top with fresh cilantro, diced white onion, and a squeeze of lime.
- Carnitas Sliders: Pile the savory pork onto small buns with a dollop of coleslaw or a spicy mayo for a perfect party appetizer or light meal.
- Burrito Bowls: Create vibrant and healthy bowls with rice, black beans, corn, avocado, and a generous serving of carnitas.
- Carnitas Enchiladas: Roll the flavorful pork into tortillas, smother with enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake until bubbly for a comforting dish. Get the recipe for Pork Carnitas Enchiladas.
- Loaded Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with carnitas, queso, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for an ultimate snack or meal. Try these Carnitas Nachos.
- Hearty Salads: Add a protein punch to your greens by topping a fresh salad with warm carnitas.
- Baked Potatoes: Transform a simple baked potato into a hearty meal by loading it with shredded carnitas and your preferred fixings, much like a Taco Loaded Baked Potato.
Don’t forget the garnishes and toppings! A few key additions can elevate your carnitas experience. Consider fresh red onion, vibrant cilantro, creamy avocado or guacamole, zesty pico de gallo, various salsas, savory black beans, rich refried beans, shredded cheese, sweet corn, cooling sour cream, and essential lime wedges for that finishing bright touch.
Perfect Side Dishes to Complement Your Carnitas
Pairing your carnitas with the right side dishes can complete your Mexican feast. Here are some of my top recommendations that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this dish:
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty and aromatic rice dish that adds a refreshing contrast.
- Creamy Queso: For dipping chips or drizzling over your carnitas, a rich queso is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Easy Homemade Refried Beans: Far superior to canned versions, these add a creamy, savory element.
- Warm Tortilla Soup: A comforting and flavorful soup that can be served as a starter or a lighter side.
- Refreshing Blueberry Margaritas: For the adults, a sweet and tangy margarita is the perfect beverage pairing.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Slow Cooker Carnitas
Crafting perfect carnitas relies on a few key ingredients that work together to create that signature rich, tender, and flavorful profile. Here’s what you’ll need and why each component is important:
- Pork Shoulder (Bone-in Roast or Boneless Pork Butt): This is the foundation of your carnitas. A 5-pound roast is ideal. Pork shoulder (also known as Boston butt or pork butt, despite the misleading name, it’s from the shoulder) is perfect because its higher fat content and connective tissue break down beautifully during long, slow cooking, resulting in incredibly moist and tender meat. While pork tenderloin can be used, it’s leaner and won’t yield the same rich, succulent results.
- Onion: Chopped white or yellow onions add a foundational aromatic sweetness that deepens as it slow cooks with the pork. For convenience, pre-chopped onions are a great shortcut.
- Jalapeño: Removing the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño ensures you get its distinct pepper flavor without overwhelming heat, adding a subtle warmth to the dish.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the pork and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper offers a more potent and aromatic punch than pre-ground varieties.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic provides a robust, pungent flavor. If fresh isn’t available, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can be substituted in the spice mixture.
- Oranges: The juice from two oranges (or ⅔ cup of store-bought orange juice) is crucial. The acidity helps tenderize the pork while adding a bright, subtly sweet, and authentic Mexican flavor that defines carnitas.
- Dried Oregano: Mexican oregano is traditionally preferred, offering earthy, citrusy notes that differ slightly from Mediterranean oregano. Any dried oregano will still provide excellent flavor.
- Ground Cumin: This warm, earthy spice is a hallmark of Mexican cuisine and provides a deep, savory foundation for the carnitas.
- Olive Oil: Used to create the spice rub, helping the seasonings adhere to the pork and contributing to the overall richness. Vegetable oil can be used as an alternative.
Mastering the Method: How to Make These Flavorful Pork Shoulder Carnitas
Making perfect slow cooker carnitas is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these simple steps for tender, flavorful Mexican pulled pork:
STEP ONE: Prepare the Pork and Spice Rub. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dried oregano, and ground cumin to form a fragrant paste. Take your pork roast, rinse it thoroughly under cold water, and pat it completely dry with paper towels. A dry surface helps the spices adhere better. Generously rub the roast with salt and pepper, ensuring all sides are covered. Then, take the olive oil and spice mixture and rub it evenly over the entire roast. This creates a flavorful crust as it cooks.
Ensure the spice mixture is well-distributed, creating a delicious coating on the pork.
STEP TWO: Layer in the Slow Cooker. Carefully place the seasoned pork roast into the bottom of your slow cooker. Evenly scatter the chopped onions, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño over and around the pork. These aromatics will infuse the meat with incredible flavor as it cooks.
Finally, take your two oranges and squeeze their fresh juice directly over the top of all the ingredients in the slow cooker. This citrusy liquid is key to both tenderizing the meat and imparting the distinctive bright flavor of carnitas.
STEP THREE: Slow Cook to Perfection. Cover your slow cooker and cook on the “low” setting for 8-10 hours. The longer, slower cooking time is essential for breaking down the tough cuts of pork, resulting in fork-tender meat. Resist the urge to lift the lid, as this releases heat and moisture, extending the cooking time.
STEP FOUR: Shred and Finish. Once the pork is incredibly tender (it should shred easily with two forks), carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or in a shallow dish. Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat or bone. Meanwhile, skim any excess fat off the surface of the cooking liquid remaining in the slow cooker with a slotted spoon. This liquid is packed with flavor. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and toss it with the flavorful juices. This ensures the carnitas remain moist and absorb all the delicious flavors.
Your perfectly shredded pork carnitas are now ready to be enjoyed however you desire!
Love these tender pork carnitas? Pin this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board to easily find it later!
Frequently Asked Questions About Carnitas
- What is the difference between pork butt and pork shoulder? Despite their names, both pork butt (also called Boston butt) and pork shoulder come from the shoulder of the pig. Pork butt is cut from the upper part of the front leg and typically has more marbling and fat, making it ideal for slow cooking and shredding. Pork shoulder is located just below the butt and is also a tough, flavorful cut benefiting from low and slow cooking methods. Both are excellent for carnitas, yielding tender results. For food safety, both cuts should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145-160 degrees F (63-71 degrees C).
- What is the difference between pulled pork and carnitas? While “carnitas” literally translates to “little meats” in Spanish and essentially means “pulled pork,” the preparation and flavor profiles typically differ. Both are slow-cooked until incredibly tender and then shredded. However, traditional American pulled pork is often cooked with and finished in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Carnitas, on the other hand, are distinctly Mexican, seasoned with spices like cumin and oregano, and often braised with citrus (like orange juice). Crucially, authentic carnitas are usually crisped up after shredding, either on a stovetop or under a broiler, to develop crispy, caramelized edges, which is less common for BBQ pulled pork.
- Do I need to add liquid to slow cooker pork shoulder? Yes, some liquid is necessary to braise the meat and prevent it from drying out during the long cooking process. In this recipe, the orange juice provides the essential liquid. Slow cookers are very efficient at retaining moisture, so you don’t need to add as much liquid as you would for a traditional stovetop braise, as very little evaporates. The pork itself will also release a significant amount of its own juices as it cooks.
- Can I make carnitas ahead of time? Absolutely! Carnitas are fantastic for meal prep. You can cook the pork, shred it, and store it in its cooking liquid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little chicken broth or water if needed to prevent drying out. For best results, crisp them under the broiler just before serving.
- How do I get crispy carnitas edges? This is the secret to authentic carnitas! After shredding the pork and returning it to the slow cooker with some juices, you can transfer portions to a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle a little more of the flavorful cooking liquid over the pork, then place the baking sheet under a preheated broiler for 5-10 minutes. Watch closely, flipping occasionally, until the edges become beautifully golden and crisp. This step adds incredible texture and depth of flavor.
Substitutions and Variations for Your Carnitas Recipe
One of the joys of cooking is the ability to adapt recipes to your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas for modifying your slow cooker carnitas:
- Orange Juice Alternatives: The citrus in carnitas is key. While orange juice provides a classic sweetness and tenderizing acidity, you can experiment. Fresh lime juice or lemon juice (or a combination) offers a tangier profile. Some recipes even use a can of cola, which provides sweetness and helps tenderize the meat due to its acidity and carbonation, adding a unique twist.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference. If you like more heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a deeper, smoky flavor, a touch of smoked paprika can be a wonderful addition.
- Herb Enhancements: While oregano is traditional, a bay leaf or two added to the slow cooker can contribute an extra layer of herbal depth.
- Broth for Extra Moisture: If your pork seems a little dry after shredding, or if you prefer a saucier consistency, a splash of chicken or vegetable broth can be added back into the slow cooker with the shredded meat.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Carnitas Every Time
- For Crispy Edges: The hallmark of authentic carnitas is the delicious crispy bits. After shredding the pork, spread it in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle a little bit of the reserved cooking juices over the pork. Place the sheet pan under a preheated broiler for about 5-10 minutes, keeping a very close eye on it. The high heat will caramelize the edges, creating those irresistible crispy textures. Flip the pork halfway through for even crisping.
- Storing Leftovers: Should you have the delicious fortune of having leftover carnitas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s best to place your leftovers in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to ensure food safety. Make sure to include some of the cooking liquid to keep the meat moist.
- Freezing for Future Meals: Carnitas are excellent for freezing! Make a bigger batch than you need and freeze portions for quick and easy future meals. Place the shredded, saucy pork in an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag (like a gallon zipper bag). It will stay fresh in your freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. You might want to moisten the carnitas with a little chicken broth or water if needed to restore moisture.
- Don’t Skimp on the Fat: While you’ll skim excess fat at the end, the marbling in pork shoulder is what makes carnitas so tender and flavorful. Don’t choose too lean a cut if you want truly authentic results.
Instant Pot Carnitas: A Faster Alternative
If you’re short on time but still craving the incredible flavor of carnitas, your Instant Pot can come to the rescue. Here’s how to adapt this recipe for pressure cooking:
Cut the pork shoulder into 2 or 3-inch chunks. This helps the meat cook more quickly and evenly in the pressure cooker. Place the chunks directly into the Instant Pot insert. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper, then rub this mixture all over the pork pieces. Top the seasoned pork with the chopped onions, minced garlic, and jalapeño. Squeeze the juice from the oranges directly over the top of all the ingredients.
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook on high heat for 1 hour. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes. This natural release helps keep the meat tender. After 15 minutes, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure before opening the Instant Pot lid. Remove the pork, shred it, discarding any excess large pieces of fat, and return it to the flavorful juices in the Instant Pot. For crispy edges, follow the broiler step as outlined in the “Tips and Tricks” section.
More Amazing Pork Recipes to Explore
Having grown up on a farm where my family raised hogs, pork has always been a staple in my kitchen. The versatility and rich flavor of pork make it a favorite for countless dishes. My mom’s Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy was a childhood favorite that still brings back comforting memories. If you love pork as much as I do, here are some other fantastic recipes to try:
- Slow Cooker Cilantro Lime Pork (pictured above)
- Dr. Pepper BBQ Pork Sandwiches
- Fuggedabout it Pork Roast
- Hawaiian Pork Sliders
- Instant Pot Ham & Bean Soup
Don’t wait any longer to bring the authentic taste of Mexico into your home. Cook up some Slow Cooker Carnitas tonight and enjoy this wonderfully versatile meat in tacos, burrito bowls, enchiladas, sandwiches, or however your culinary heart desires. It’s an easy, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
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Print Recipe
Slow Cooker Carnitas
Mexican pulled pork, or carnitas is wonderful in any Mexican dish. This Carnitas recipe is full of flavor and easily prepared in your slow cooker.
Equipment
- 12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
- Pulled Pork Shredder Claws
- Crock-Pot Cook & Carry 6-Quart Oval Portable Manual Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 5 lb pork shoulder bone-in roast or boneless pork butt
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 jalapeno seeded, ribs removed, chopped
- 1¼ Tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 oranges juiced
- 1 Tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Combine olive oil, oregano and cumin, set aside.
- Rinse and dry your roast, rub in salt and pepper. Rub in oregano/cumin mixture.
- Place roast in slow cooker, top with onions, garlic and jalapeno.
- Squeeze the juice of the oranges directly over the top.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours, remove meat, shred.
- Skim fat off of the juice, return meat and juice to slow cooker, use however you desire.
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on September 11, 2015. It has been updated to improve user experience and reshared on February 16, 2023.