Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas

Carnitas, a dish that originates from Mexico, is known for its mouth-watering, tender, and juicy pork that’s slow-cooked to perfection. But what makes this version even more special is the crispy exterior that forms when the carnitas are finished off in the oven, adding a crunchy, flavorful contrast to the tender meat inside.

The inspiration behind this recipe came from my quest to find a way to make carnitas at home without spending hours slaving over a stove. The idea of using a slow cooker to let the pork simmer in its own juices for hours while I go about my day seemed like the perfect solution. The beauty of slow cooking is that it allows the pork to absorb all the aromatic flavors from the seasonings, making each bite burst with flavor. But what truly elevates this dish is the final step—giving the carnitas a crispy finish that adds a delightful texture. If you’ve never had crispy slow-cooked carnitas, you’re in for a treat!

If you’re a fan of Mexican food or simply looking for an easy yet delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds, then this recipe is for you. Let’s dive into how to make this crispy slow cooker carnitas!

Why I Love This Recipe

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When I first tasted crispy carnitas at a local Mexican restaurant, I was hooked. The tender, juicy meat paired with the crispy bits was an unforgettable combination. But the real challenge was recreating it at home. Carnitas is traditionally made by slow-braising pork for hours, and while the process yields tender, flavorful meat, the crispy exterior is usually achieved by frying or broiling at the end.

That’s where this recipe comes in—by using a slow cooker to achieve perfect tenderness and then crisping up the edges in the oven, you get all the best aspects of carnitas without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a hands-off approach to making a restaurant-quality dish at home, which is why I love it.

Not only is this recipe incredibly convenient, but the flavors are just out of this world. The pork is simmered in a blend of garlic, onion, cumin, and orange juice, which imparts a subtle sweetness that balances out the savory flavors. The slow cooker method ensures that every bite of pork is juicy and tender, while the crispy finish adds an irresistible crunch. This recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor.

What’s more, it’s a versatile dish that can be used in so many ways—whether in tacos, burritos, on top of nachos, or simply served with rice and beans. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients for Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas

To make the best crispy slow cooker carnitas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Pork shoulder (or pork butt): This is the key ingredient for carnitas. Pork shoulder is perfect for slow cooking because it has the right amount of fat that breaks down and makes the meat tender. Look for a boneless cut to make shredding easier.
• Onion: A whole onion, roughly chopped, adds a depth of flavor to the carnitas. It infuses the pork with a savory sweetness during the slow cooking process.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are a must for the dish’s aromatic base. It enhances the flavor and adds a richness to the carnitas.
• Orange juice: A splash of fresh orange juice gives a subtle sweetness and acidity to balance the richness of the pork. It also helps tenderize the meat as it cooks.
• Lime juice: A little lime juice brightens up the dish and adds an extra layer of freshness.
• Spices: Ground cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cinnamon are the key seasonings that give carnitas its signature flavor. They provide the perfect balance of warmth, smokiness, and earthiness.
• Bay leaves: Bay leaves add an herbal, aromatic note to the slow-cooking liquid, which helps flavor the pork.
• Chicken broth: This helps to keep the pork moist during the slow-cooking process and creates a flavorful base for the carnitas.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, ensuring the dish is well-seasoned.

These ingredients are simple but effective in creating that classic carnitas flavor. You likely have most of these in your kitchen already, making this recipe even more convenient!

How Much Time Will You Need

One of the best things about making carnitas in the slow cooker is the minimal effort involved. However, you’ll need to plan for a bit of time to get the full effect of the slow-cooking process. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes. This includes chopping the onion, garlic, and preparing the pork shoulder.
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low in the slow cooker. The pork needs time to cook slowly and break down, absorbing all those flavorful spices.
• Crisping Time: 20-30 minutes. Once the pork is done in the slow cooker, you’ll transfer it to the oven for a quick crisping session to get those irresistible crispy edges.

So overall, you’re looking at around 7-9 hours to make the entire dish, but most of that is hands-off time spent in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal that only requires a few final steps.

How to Make This Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas

Here’s your step-by-step guide to making crispy slow cooker carnitas:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder, but leave some on as it adds flavor during the slow cooking process. Cut the pork into large chunks (about 4-5 pieces), as this will help it cook evenly and shred easily later.

Step 2: Season the Pork
Season the pork generously with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and cinnamon. Don’t be afraid to coat the pork with all of the spices—you want to make sure every bit of the meat is flavored.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics
Place the chopped onion, garlic, and bay leaves into the bottom of your slow cooker. Then, add the seasoned pork on top. Pour the orange juice and lime juice over the pork, followed by the chicken broth. The liquid will help keep the pork tender as it cooks.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Pork
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the pork cook for 6-8 hours, or until it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork. The slow cooking time allows all the flavors to meld together and ensures that the pork is juicy and tender.

Step 5: Shred the Pork
Once the pork is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to discard the bay leaves and any large pieces of fat that may remain.

Step 6: Crisp the Pork
To achieve the crispy edges, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spread the shredded pork in an even layer. Roast the pork in the oven for 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the edges are crispy and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your carnitas are crispy and caramelized, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy this on tacos, burritos, or even as a topping for nachos. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

Substitutions

Hook: If you’re in the mood for something a little different or if you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, there are a few substitutions you can try that will still result in a delicious dish.

• Pork Alternatives: While pork shoulder is traditional, you can substitute it with other cuts of pork, such as pork loin. However, pork loin is leaner, so it may not be as tender as pork shoulder.
• Spices: If you don’t have cumin or oregano, feel free to experiment with other spices like smoked paprika or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
• Broth Alternatives: If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings to taste.
• Orange Juice: If you don’t have fresh orange juice, you can use bottled juice, though fresh juice tends to provide a brighter flavor. Alternatively, lime juice or pineapple juice could add a different twist.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas

While carnitas are delicious on their own, they pair perfectly with a variety of sides to make a full meal. Here are three side dishes that will complement your crispy carnitas beautifully:

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Sweet, charred corn on the cob coated with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder is the perfect side to balance out the rich, savory carnitas.
• Rice and Beans: A classic combination, you can’t go wrong with simple Mexican rice and black beans or pinto beans on the side.
• Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy tortilla chips makes for a refreshing and satisfying side that complements the bold flavors of the carnitas.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Hook: Now that you’ve got your crispy slow cooker carnitas ready, it’s time to think about how to serve them. The way you present the dish can elevate the entire experience, making it feel like a special meal no matter the occasion.

Here are some tips to serve and present your carnitas in a way that looks as good as it tastes:

• Tacos: A simple yet delicious way to serve carnitas is in soft corn tortillas. Top the carnitas with freshly chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. You can also add a drizzle of salsa, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavor. Arrange the tacos on a large platter with lime wedges on the side for an easy, shareable presentation.
• Plating for Elegance: If you’re serving the carnitas as a main dish, consider plating it with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or even a colorful salad. For an elegant presentation, use a large white plate with a small mound of rice on the side, a generous portion of carnitas in the center, and garnish with fresh herbs. A sprinkle of cotija cheese and a few slices of lime around the plate will add color and texture to the dish.
• Family Style: For a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, serve the carnitas on a large platter surrounded by various toppings and side dishes. This way, everyone can assemble their own tacos or bowls, adding their favorite toppings. This is an ideal presentation if you’re hosting a casual dinner or a taco bar for a group.

The key to presenting this dish beautifully is to keep it simple yet vibrant. Fresh herbs, bright garnishes, and colorful sides will make your meal look as inviting as it tastes!

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

Hook: You’ve already got the recipe, but what if you could take it to the next level? Here are some tips and tricks that will elevate your crispy slow cooker carnitas and make it an unforgettable dish.

• Use a Dutch Oven for Extra Flavor: If you want to add even more depth of flavor, sear the pork pieces in a hot Dutch oven before placing them in the slow cooker. This will help caramelize the meat, intensifying the natural flavors and creating a rich crust. It’s an extra step, but it’s totally worth it for that added umami.
• Crisp the Carnitas in a Cast Iron Skillet: If you don’t have access to an oven or just want an alternative method, you can crisp up the carnitas in a hot cast iron skillet. The cast iron retains heat and ensures even crisping, so you can get those delicious crunchy bits without the oven.
• Add Fruit for a Sweet Twist: While the classic recipe is savory, adding a bit of fruit, like pineapple or even a sliced apple, to the slow cooker can bring a sweet element that complements the pork beautifully. The natural sweetness of the fruit will balance the spices and make your carnitas even more flavorful.
• Try Different Salsas and Sauces: Experiment with different types of salsa, from smoky chipotle salsa to tangy tomatillo salsa, to add more layers of flavor to your carnitas. You can also top the tacos with a creamy cilantro-lime dressing or a spicy jalapeño aioli for an extra punch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Hook: While this recipe is pretty foolproof, there are still a few mistakes to watch out for. Avoid these common missteps to ensure your crispy slow cooker carnitas turn out just right.

• Overcooking the Pork: It’s easy to assume that the longer you cook the pork, the better, but overcooking it can make the meat dry and stringy. Make sure to check the pork after 6 hours of slow cooking—once it’s fall-apart tender, it’s time to shred it.
• Not Using Enough Fat: The fat from the pork shoulder is crucial to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Don’t trim too much fat off before cooking, as it helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful. If you find that the meat is too lean after cooking, add a little more chicken broth to bring back some moisture.
• Skipping the Crisping Step: One of the best parts of carnitas is the crispy texture. Don’t skip the final step of roasting the pork in the oven or skillet. This step gives the carnitas that delicious crispy exterior that sets it apart from other slow-cooked meats.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Make sure to generously season the pork with the spices—don’t be afraid to use more than you think you need. Since the pork is slow-cooked, it needs enough seasoning to penetrate the meat and infuse all that flavor. Taste the seasoning before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure it’s balanced.

How to Store It

Hook: If you have any leftover carnitas (though I doubt you will), here’s how to store and reheat it so you can enjoy it again later.

• Refrigeration: Allow the carnitas to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will actually improve as they sit, so don’t be afraid to enjoy it the next day.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked carnitas. After shredding the pork, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge and then crisp it up in the oven or skillet for that fresh, crispy texture.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different cut of meat for carnitas?
   Yes! While pork shoulder is the best option for carnitas, you can also use pork butt or even a leaner cut like pork loin. Just keep in mind that the fattier cuts will yield a juicier, more tender result.
2. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
   Absolutely! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the carnitas in the oven. Simply place the seasoned pork in a Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid, and roast at a low temperature (around 300°F) for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender.
3. How do I make my carnitas spicier?
   To add heat, incorporate some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix. You can also top the carnitas with a spicy salsa or hot sauce when serving.
4. What can I do with leftover carnitas?
   Leftover carnitas are great for making burritos, tacos, or nachos. You can also use them as a topping for salads, or mix them with scrambled eggs for a delicious breakfast burrito.
5. Can I make this recipe in advance?
   Yes! In fact, this recipe is even better when made a day ahead. You can cook the pork the day before, refrigerate it overnight, and then crisp it up the next day for the perfect meal. The flavors will have more time to meld together!

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