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Photo of featured for Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas: The Ultimate Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas: The Ultimate Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

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These crispy slow cooker carnitas are a flavorful and tender pork dish perfect for tacos or burritos.

  • Total Time: 8-10 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (or pork butt)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 orange, juiced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Bay leaves (2)

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from the pork and cut into large chunks.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the pork until browned on all sides.
  3. In a slow cooker, combine onion, garlic, seared pork, spices, orange and lime juice, and bay leaves.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours until tender.
  5. Shred the pork with two forks and discard excess fat, saving some cooking juices.
  6. Spread shredded pork on a baking sheet, drizzle with reserved juices, and broil for 5-10 minutes until crispy.

Notes

  • Be careful not to burn the pork while broiling.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8-10 hours
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Paleo