Say Goodbye To Bland, Dry Carnitas Forever! How To Make The Perfect Pork In A Crock Pot (just 3 Ingredients!)

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of authentic Mexican carnitas with this comprehensive guide on how to make pork carnitas in a crock pot. This slow-cooked delicacy is effortlessly tender, juicy, and bursting with a symphony of spices that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, this detailed recipe will empower you to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.

Gathering the Essential Ingredients

To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 pounds boneless pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 1 white onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1 cup lime juice
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Seasoning the Pork

1. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder.
2. In a large bowl, combine the onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, cilantro, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir to thoroughly coat the pork with the marinade.

Slow Cooking the Carnitas

1. Transfer the marinated pork to a 6-quart or larger crock pot.
2. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is fall-off-the-bone tender.

Shredding and Crisping the Carnitas

1. Remove the pork from the crock pot and shred it using two forks or a meat shredder.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the shredded pork and cook until crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally.

Assembling the Carnitas Tacos

1. Warm your favorite tortillas in the microwave or on a griddle.
2. Fill the tortillas with the crispy pork carnitas.
3. Top with your desired toppings, such as chopped onion, cilantro, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.

Additional Flavor Enhancements

• Add a touch of sweetness: Stir in 1/4 cup of brown sugar or honey to the marinade before cooking.
• Enhance the spice: Increase the amount of chili powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper for a bolder flavor.
• Create a tangy twist: Add 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar to the marinade for a bright and tangy flavor.

Tips for Perfect Carnitas

• Use a high-quality pork shoulder: The marbling in the pork shoulder will contribute to the tenderness and flavor of the carnitas.
• Marinating is key: Allow the pork to marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor absorption.
• Don’t overcook the pork: Overcooking can result in dry and tough carnitas.
• Crisp the pork properly: Cooking the shredded pork in a skillet until golden brown will enhance its flavor and texture.
• Serve immediately: Carnitas are best enjoyed fresh, so serve them immediately after cooking.

Wrap-Up: A Culinary Triumph

Congratulations! You have successfully mastered the art of making pork carnitas in a crock pot. This delectable dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile and customizable to your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy them in tacos, burritos, or nachos, these tender and flavorful carnitas will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I use other cuts of pork for carnitas?
A: Yes, you can use pork loin, pork belly, or pork tenderloin. However, pork shoulder is the traditional and most flavorful cut.

Q: How can I store leftover carnitas?
A: Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

Q: What are some other ways to use carnitas?
A: Carnitas can be used in a variety of dishes, including enchiladas, tortas, and quesadillas. They can also be used as a topping for salads, soups, and nachos.