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Crispy Crockpot Carnitas

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A simple and flavorful slow cooker carnitas recipe that yields tender, juicy pork with crispy edges, perfect for tacos, bowls, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
  • 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (fresh squeezed)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Mexican oregano preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for crisping)

Instructions

  1. Cut the pork shoulder into 3-4 large chunks, about 3-4 inches each. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper, minced garlic, chopped onion, orange juice, and lime juice to create a marinade.
  3. Toss the pork chunks in the marinade, coating well. Let sit for 10 minutes if possible.
  4. Place pork and bay leaves into the crockpot. Pour any leftover marinade over the meat. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours until pork is tender and easily shredded.
  5. Remove pork from crockpot and let cool slightly. Shred meat with two forks or tongs, discarding large fat pieces and bay leaves.
  6. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shredded pork in a single layer, pressing down slightly. Cook undisturbed for 3-5 minutes until edges crisp. Flip and crisp the other side. Work in batches if needed. Alternatively, spread shredded pork on a rimmed baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until crispy bits form.
  7. Serve immediately with warm tortillas or over rice bowls with desired toppings.

Notes

Do not skip the crisping step as it adds the signature crunchy texture. Save some cooking liquid to spoon over rice or carnitas for extra flavor. Avoid overcooking pork on high to prevent dryness. Work in batches when crisping to avoid steaming the meat.

Nutrition

Keywords: carnitas, crockpot carnitas, slow cooker pork, crispy carnitas, easy carnitas recipe, Mexican pork, taco meat

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/crispy-crockpot-carnitas-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-perfect-flavor/