Let me tell you, crispy slow cooker carnitas are a game changer! They’re tender, flavorful, and the perfect filling for tacos or burritos. I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering; everyone raved about them! The way the pork just melts in your mouth, combined with that crispy top layer after broiling, is nothing short of magical. The best part? You can set it and forget it while the slow cooker works its magic. I love how versatile they are too—you can dress them up with your favorite toppings or just enjoy them plain. Trust me, these carnitas will become your new go-to dish for gatherings or simply a cozy night in. Let’s dive into how to make this deliciousness happen!
Ingredients for Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas
Gather these simple ingredients to create the most mouthwatering crispy slow cooker carnitas. Each one plays a vital role in bringing out those rich, savory flavors!
- 3 lbs pork shoulder (you want that nice marbling for tenderness)
- 1 tablespoon salt (to enhance all the flavors)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (just a touch for warmth)
- 1 tablespoon cumin (adds that earthy, aromatic kick)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (for a hint of spice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 onion, quartered (it adds sweetness and depth)
- 2 oranges, juiced (fresh juice brings brightness to the dish)
- 1 lime, juiced (for that zesty punch)
- 2 bay leaves (they infuse a subtle herbal note)
How to Prepare Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas
Preparing crispy slow cooker carnitas is a breeze, and I’m here to walk you through every step! Just follow along, and you’ll have tender, flavorful pork that’s ready to be crisped up and served in no time!
Seasoning the Pork
First things first, let’s season that pork shoulder! I like to take my time with this part because even coverage is key for flavor. Rub the salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder all over the pork, making sure to get into every nook and cranny. This isn’t just for show—it’s going to make every bite packed with flavor! Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Once seasoned, let it sit for a few minutes while you gather the rest of your ingredients.
Cooking in the Slow Cooker
Now, it’s time to bring everything together in the slow cooker! Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the pot, and add the minced garlic and quartered onion around it. Then, pour in the fresh orange and lime juice, and toss in those bay leaves. Cover it up and set your slow cooker on low for about 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The slow and low method really breaks down the meat, making it super tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork easily pulls apart with a fork!
Shredding the Pork
Once your pork is cooked to perfection, remove it from the slow cooker and let it cool for just a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. I love this part because you can feel how tender the meat is! Just imagine that juicy, flavorful goodness ready to be served. Make sure to discard the bay leaves and any excess fat, though—nobody wants that in their tacos!
Broiling for Crispiness
Finally, let’s get that crispy texture we all love! Spread the shredded pork evenly on a baking sheet and pop it under the broiler for about 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on it because it can go from perfectly crispy to burnt in a flash! You want to see those edges get golden brown and crispy, which adds such a delightful crunch when you bite into your tacos or burritos. Wow, just thinking about it makes my mouth water!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible flavor: The combination of spices and citrus creates a mouthwatering depth that’s hard to resist.
- Hands-off cooking: Just season, set it, and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work for you!
- Versatility: Perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, or even served over rice—the possibilities are endless!
- Crispy finish: Broiling the shredded pork adds that satisfying crunch that elevates every bite.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these carnitas, making them a hit for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
- Make-ahead magic: You can easily prep these in advance and reheat, which is a lifesaver on busy days.
Tips for Success
Getting those crispy slow cooker carnitas just right is all about a few simple tips and tricks. Trust me, following these will make all the difference and ensure you impress everyone with your cooking skills!
- Season to Your Taste: Don’t be afraid to play around with the spices! If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or even a dash of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can dial back on the spices.
- Low and Slow: For the best texture, always opt for the low setting if you have the time. This allows the collagen in the pork to break down beautifully, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Don’t Skip the Broiling: This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. Keep an eye on the pork while it’s under the broiler; it can go from perfectly crisp to burnt in seconds!
- Let it Rest: After cooking, give the pork a few minutes to rest before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your carnitas moist and flavorful.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which I doubt you will, but just in case!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results—microwaving can make them a bit soggy.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values for each serving of these delightful crispy slow cooker carnitas. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
This hearty meal is not only packed with flavor but also provides a good amount of protein to keep you satisfied. Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing you’re indulging in a tasty, nutritious dish!
FAQ Section
Can I use another cut of pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is my go-to for crispy slow cooker carnitas due to its rich marbling and tenderness, you can definitely use other cuts. Pork butt or even pork loin can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind that pork loin is leaner, so it might not be as juicy. If you do choose a lean cut, consider adding a bit more fat or cooking it for a shorter time to avoid drying it out. Trust me, you want that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let the pork cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date so you don’t forget about it! When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, I recommend reheating them in the oven. This keeps the carnitas nice and crispy, just like when you first made them!
Can I make this in advance?
You bet! These crispy slow cooker carnitas are perfect for making ahead of time. Just follow all the cooking steps, and once you’ve shredded the pork, let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, which is fantastic for busy weeknights or gatherings. Just reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve, and don’t forget to give it a quick broil to get that crispy finish again. You’ll love how convenient this is, plus it’s always a hit!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your crispy slow cooker carnitas ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve them up for the ultimate taco night or burrito feast! There are so many delicious toppings and sides that can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Trust me, your family and friends will be begging for seconds!
- Tortillas: Start with warm corn or flour tortillas; they’re the perfect vessel for holding all that juicy, crispy pork. I love to heat them on a skillet for a minute on each side for that extra warmth and flavor.
- Fresh Toppings: Load up on fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, diced onions, and sliced radishes. They add a nice crunch and freshness that complements the rich carnitas beautifully.
- Salsa: A spoonful of salsa—whether it’s a fresh pico de gallo or a smoky salsa verde—adds a burst of vibrant flavor. My favorite is a homemade tomatillo salsa that packs a punch!
- Guacamole: You can never go wrong with creamy guacamole on top. It’s the perfect creamy contrast to the crispy carnitas. Just mash up some ripe avocados with lime juice, salt, and diced tomatoes for a quick treat.
- Cheese: Sprinkle some crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar on top for that melty goodness. It’s like a cozy blanket for your tacos!
- Beans and Rice: Serve your carnitas with a side of refried beans or cilantro-lime rice. They’re hearty and give you that classic Mexican meal feel. Plus, they soak up all those delicious juices!
- Pickled Jalapeños: For a bit of heat, add some pickled jalapeños. They’re tangy and spicy, which adds a fun twist to each bite.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on what you love! The beauty of crispy slow cooker carnitas is their versatility—there’s no wrong way to enjoy them. So grab your favorite toppings, gather around the table, and dig in. You’re in for a treat!
Imprimer
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas: 5 Flavorful Ways to Enjoy
- Temps Total: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
Crispy slow cooker carnitas are tender, flavorful, and perfect for tacos or burritos.
Ingrédients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 oranges, juiced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
- Place the pork in the slow cooker with garlic, onion, orange juice, lime juice, and bay leaves.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until tender.
- Remove the pork and shred it using two forks.
- Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
- Serve with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Adjust spices to taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Temps De Préparation: 20 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 8 hours
- Catégorie: Main Dish
- Méthode: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 1g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 20g
- Graisses Saturées: 7g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 10g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 5g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 90mg
Mots-clés: crispy slow cooker carnitas, pork carnitas, slow cooker recipes, Mexican food
