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A close-up of perfectly shredded, caramelized Carnitas Crockpot pork piled high on a white plate.

Crockpot Carnitas


  • Author: leckerzutaten.com
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 min
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Simple recipe for tender, flavorful pork shoulder cooked in a slow cooker.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt), trimmed and cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 1 large onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Place the pork chunks, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
  2. Pour the orange juice and lime juice over the pork.
  3. Sprinkle with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add the water or broth to the slow cooker.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is easily shredded.
  6. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
  7. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker liquid.
  8. If you want crispy edges, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until browned.
  9. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add 1 bay leaf to the slow cooker before cooking.
  • If the cooking liquid is too thin after shredding, remove the pork and simmer the liquid on the stovetop until reduced.
  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 5 oz)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3
  • Sodium: 450
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 4
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 32
  • Cholesterol: 100

Keywords: carnitas, crockpot, slow cooker, pork shoulder, mexican food, shredded pork