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Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

Incredibly tender, citrus-infused shredded pork cooked low and slow, then crisped for authentic carnitas flavor. Perfect for tacos, bowls, nachos, and easy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pork Carnitas
  • 4-5 lbs pork shoulder
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 cup orange juice
  • 2 limes juiced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1.5 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil optional
  • 2 bay leaves

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Season pork with chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth to slow cooker.
  3. Place seasoned pork on top and add bay leaves.
  4. Cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 4–6 hours until tender.
  5. Remove pork, shred with forks, discarding excess fat.
  6. Reduce cooking juices for extra flavor if desired.
  7. Spread shredded pork on baking sheet, drizzle with reduced juices, and broil 5–8 minutes until crispy.
  8. Serve with tortillas, lime, cilantro, or use in bowls and nachos.

Notes

For extra crispy carnitas, broil a second time after tossing with more of the cooking juices.