Ingredients
– 2 kg (4 lb) skinless, boneless pork shoulder (pork butt) the base for tender, shreddable meat
– 2 1/2 teaspoons salt for seasoning and enhancing flavor
– 1 teaspoon black pepper adds a subtle kick to the rub
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano part of the spice rub for herbal notes
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin essential for the rub’s earthy depth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil used in the rub and for finishing
– 1 chopped onion tops the pork for added sweetness
– 1 deseeded and chopped jalapeño brings mild heat to the mix
– 4 cloves of minced garlic infuses robust aroma
– 3/4 cup orange juice (from 2 oranges) poured over for moisture and subtle citrus
Instructions
1-First, prepare the pork by trimming any excess fat, then rub it with 2 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper for even seasoning.
2-Next, mix 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, and 1 tablespoon olive oil to create a rub, and coat the pork thoroughly.
3-Place the pork fat side up in the slow cooker, add 1 chopped onion, 1 deseeded and chopped jalapeño, and 4 cloves of minced garlic on top.
4-Pour 3/4 cup of orange juice over the pork, cover, and cook on low for 10 hours or high for 7 hours until it’s fall-apart tender.
5-After cooking, shred the pork and reduce the liquid if it’s too watery by simmering it in a pan.
6-Fry the shredded pork in 1 tablespoon of oil on high heat in batches for a crispy exterior, drizzling with cooking juices for flavor.
7-Serve the pork carnitas hot, perhaps in tacos with toppings like fresh salsa or avocado, and enjoy the results of your slow cooker carnitas efforts.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🥩 Use pork shoulder with a good fat cap to keep meat juicy and flavorful.
⏳ Avoid lean or frozen pork for best tenderness and texture.
🔥 Finish by pan frying shredded pork to create a crispy crust and enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 7 to 10 hours
- Cook Time: 7 to 10 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking and Pan Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Balanced
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 578
- Fat: 42 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1.7 grams
- Protein: 45 grams