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World's Best Carnitas Recipe

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Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe (Crockpot Carnitas)
Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe (Crockpot Carnitas) from www.yellowblissroad.com

Description

Carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish made of slow-cooked pork that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This recipe is a combination of different techniques and flavors that create the perfect balance of texture and taste. The result is a dish that will make you feel like you are in Mexico.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

3 hours

Ingredients

  • 4 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons cumin
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon oregano
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 oranges, juiced
  • 2 limes, juiced
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Baking sheet

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and garlic powder.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the pork with the spice mixture until well coated.
  4. In a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
  6. Add the chopped onion, orange juice, lime juice, and water.
  7. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the oven.
  8. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and falling apart.
  9. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pork to a baking sheet and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
  10. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook until the pork is crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
  11. Serve hot with tortillas, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Notes

  • This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Leftover carnitas can be used in tacos, burritos, or salads.

Nutrition Info

  • Serving size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 250
  • Total fat: 15g
  • Saturated fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Total carbohydrate: 4g
  • Dietary fiber: 1g
  • Total sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 25g

Recipes FAQ

What cut of pork is best for carnitas?

Pork shoulder is the best cut for carnitas because it has the right amount of fat and connective tissue that will make the meat tender and juicy.

Can I use a slow cooker?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker instead of the oven. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.

What toppings can I use?

You can use any toppings you like, but traditional toppings include chopped cilantro, diced onion, sliced radish, and lime wedges.

Recipe Tips

  • Make sure to brown the pork before adding the liquid. This will create a nice crust that will add flavor and texture to the meat.
  • Use freshly squeezed orange and lime juice for the best flavor.
  • If you don't have a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, you can use a large skillet or saucepan.
  • Don't overcrowd the pot when browning the pork. This will prevent it from getting crispy.

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