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Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas

Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas for Perfect Taco Nights

Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas are a flavorful and versatile dish perfect for taco nights with tender pork that falls apart and crispy edges.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Carnitas
  • 3 pounds Pork Shoulder can substitute with pork butt or pork loin
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth opt for gluten-free broth if needed
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice always use fresh for best flavor
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice lemon juice can be a substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Cumin can swap for smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Oregano fresh or dried both work well
  • to taste Salt and Pepper adjust as needed while cooking
For a Crispy Finish
  • 2 tablespoons High-Heat Oil avocado oil is a great choice

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • large skillet
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Sear the Pork: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then carefully place the pork shoulder in the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until it is beautifully browned and has a nice crust.
  2. Prepare Liquid Mixture: Once the pork is seared, remove it from the skillet and set aside. Pour in about one cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those flavorful browned bits. Add fresh orange juice, lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined.
  3. Slow Cook the Pork: Transfer the seared pork shoulder into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared liquid mixture evenly over the pork. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours.
  4. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, carefully remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Broil for Crispiness: Preheat your oven broiler. Drizzle a little high-heat oil over the shredded pork. Broil the pork in the oven for about 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Now your Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm in tortillas with toppings such as diced onions, cilantro, and avocado.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 8mg

Notes

These carnitas are meal prep friendly and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.

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