The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Why Make This Recipe
Carnitas made in a crockpot are not just easy to prepare; they also offer rich flavors that melt in your mouth.
The slow cooking process tenderizes the pork, allowing the spices to meld perfectly with the meat. It’s an excellent choice for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. You can serve them in various ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
How to Make Carnitas Crockpot
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
3-Step Directions:
- Prepare the Pork & Sauce: Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks and place them in a crockpot. In a bowl, mix together orange juice, chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour this seasoning mixture evenly over the pork.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Shred & Serve: Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks directly in the pot. Serve in tacos, stews, or as a main dish, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
How to Serve Carnitas Crockpot
Carnitas are fantastic in tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. You can also serve them on a bed of rice or alongside beans for a hearty meal. Add your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or cheese for extra flavor.
How to Store Carnitas Crockpot
To store leftover carnitas, let them cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Carnitas Crockpot
- For extra flavor, sear the pork in a skillet for a few minutes before putting it in the crockpot.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicy, add some chili powder or diced jalapeños.
- Use the leftover juice from the crockpot to drizzle over the shredded pork for extra moisture and flavor.
Variation
You can use different cuts of pork, such as pork butt or pork loin, for different flavors and textures. You can also try adding different citrus juices, like lime or lemon, for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with chicken or beef, but cooking times may vary.
2. Is it necessary to sear the pork before cooking?
No, it’s not necessary, but searing can enhance the flavor and give it a nice color.
3. Can I cook it on high instead of low?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for about 4 hours, but low cooking gives the best results.
Crockpot Carnitas
Tender and flavorful carnitas cooked in a crockpot, perfect for tacos and more.
Main ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Preparation
- Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks and place them in a crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix together orange juice, chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour this seasoning mixture evenly over the pork.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Serving
- Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks directly in the pot.
- Serve in tacos, stews, or as a main dish, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
To store leftover carnitas, let them cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving. For extra flavor, sear the pork in a skillet for a few minutes before putting it in the crockpot.
