Crockpot Pork Carnitas
I absolutely LOVE making pork carnitas, which is essentially just another way to say Mexican pulled pork. There is so much flavor in this meat, the pork will blow your mind. I make pork carnitas often because of their versatility. They are perfect for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and enchiladas – to name a few. I’ve discovered that these are much easier to make in a slow cooker, it requires very little effort. The beauty of cooking in a slow cooker is that you can basically throw all of your ingredients in it, set it and forget it. The end result is incredibly juicy, tender pieces of pork with unbelievable flavor.
Why Make These Carnitas
Quick 10 Minute Prep Time Very flavorful and delicious! Extremely versatile! Perfect freezer food! Great for picnics, barbecues and parties!
Ingredient Notes
Pork – Pork shoulder is the best to use, cut into 2 inch pieces. Onion – You’ll need one large onion quartered, for lots of great flavor. Herbs and Spices – I used a blend of garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, onion powder and dried oregano. Salt and Pepper – To taste. Bay leaves – If you don’t have bay leaf, you can substitute 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano for each leaf. Cinnamon – I used a full stick. If you don’t have cinnamon sticks you can use whatever cinnamon you have in your pantry. Orange Juice – You can use freshly squeezed or store bought. Beer – I like using a light beer or lager. Modelo is a nice Mexican beer that works well.
How To Make Pork Carnitas In The Crockpot
How To Serve Carnitas
You have options when it comes to crockpot pork carnitas! You can serve it as is, straight out of the crockpot – shredded on a bun, in a taco or wrap. If you want a little crispiness, pop the meat under the broiler or sear it in a skillet. You can even make a gravy with the leftover juices! (See recipe notes for how to make gravy) I loaded my burritos with the pork and then filled them with lettuce, red peppers, herbs (cilantro and dill), scrambled eggs, pickled beets, some with Sriracha, some with gravy and some with mayo – the ultimate breakfast burritos! You can go for a more traditional option if you’d prefer. You can also serve carnitas over some Mexican rice with some fresh Pico de Gallo and my delicious guacamole.
Leftovers
Leftover pork should be stored in airtight containers or wrap tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Properly stored, your leftovers will keep for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. If you want to preserve the life of your leftovers, you can keep them in the freezer – sealed or tightly wrapped for up to three months. While the pork will keep longer, it will lose some of its texture quality.
More Delicious Recipes To Try
Pork CarnitasCrockpot Mexican Chicken50 Easy Chicken RecipesMushroom Pork ChopsPozole Rojo RecipeBaked Honey Glazed Pork RibsPulled PorkSweet And Sour Pork
