Pork Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork) Recipe

If there’s one dish that truly embodies the rich, bold flavors of Mexican cooking while being incredibly easy to prepare, it’s this Pork Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork) Recipe. Tender, juicy, and infused with a perfect blend of spices, slow-cooked pork butt transforms into melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork that’s crispy on the edges and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe promises to deliver a crowd-pleasing meal with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple but purposeful ingredients is key to nailing the authentic taste and texture of this Pork Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork) Recipe. Each one plays an important role, from the seasoning that creates depth to the citrus juices that add a subtle brightness and help tenderize the pork.

• 4-lb. pork butt: The star of the show, this cut is perfect for slow cooking and shredding into tender carnitas.
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the spices and helps with caramelization later on.
• 1 Tbsp ground cumin: Brings an earthy warmth that’s signature to Mexican flavors.
• 1 Tbsp dried oregano: Provides a fragrant herbaceous note that complements the meat beautifully.
• 2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps with seasoning the pork evenly.
• 2 tsp garlic powder: For a mellow, savory garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
• 1 tsp pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and complexity.
• 1 tsp paprika: Offers a subtle smoky depth and lovely color to the rub.
• 3 Tbsp olive oil (divided): Used to blend the rub and crisp up the shredded pork at the end.
• 1 jalapeño pepper: Removed seeds for controlled heat, sliced to infuse gently into the meat.
• 1 onion: Adds sweet and savory notes, enhancing the slow-cooked pork.
• 1 orange: Freshly squeezed juice brightens the dish and tenderizes the pork.
• 1 lime: Adds a zesty tang that balances the richness perfectly.

How to Make Pork Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Start by rinsing your pork butt under cold water and drying it well with paper towels. This simple first step ensures the seasoning will stick perfectly, giving you that flavorful crust later.

Step 2: Make the Spice Rub

In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cumin, oregano, salt, garlic powder, pepper, and paprika. Then, stir in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until you have a thick, fragrant paste that will coat the pork beautifully.

Step 3: Season the Pork

Rub the spice mixture all over the pork butt, making sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor. Place the seasoned pork into your slow cooker with the fat side facing up—this helps keep the meat juicy as it cooks.

Step 4: Add Fresh Aromatics

Seed and slice the jalapeño and scatter the slices on and around the pork. Dice the onion and add it evenly as well. These aromatics will infuse the meat with heat and sweetness.

Step 5: Citrus Boost

Halve the orange and squash the juice directly over the pork, then tuck the orange halves into the slow cooker. Repeat the same with the lime. This citrus combo brightens the rich pork and helps tenderize the meat.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker to high and let it work its magic for about 8 hours. The pork will become irresistibly tender and infused with all those delicious flavors.

Step 7: Shred the Meat

Once cooked, carefully remove the pork and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes—it’s important for juicy carnitas. Then, use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 8: Crisp the Carnitas

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Working in batches, add about a quarter of the shredded pork with some of the cooking juices. Press it down and let it sear to get those crispy, caramelized edges that make carnitas so addictive.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

After crisping all the pork, transfer it to your serving dish. For extra juiciness, drizzle some of the reserved cooking juices over the top. Now your Pork Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork) Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Pork Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork) Recipe

Garnishes

Brighten your carnitas with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, diced onions, sliced radishes, and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco. A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of pico de gallo also adds a fresh, creamy contrast that is irresistible.

Side Dishes

Serve with warm corn or flour tortillas for tacos, alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp cabbage slaw to add texture and coolness. Black beans and grilled street corn also pair wonderfully, creating a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond tacos by turning your pork carnitas into a hearty burrito bowl, topping nachos, or stuffing into crunchy tostadas. You can also pile the carnitas on top of fresh salad greens for a lighter twist that still delivers bold flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover pork cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making for easy weekday lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

Pork carnitas freeze beautifully. Pack portions tightly in freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out excess air to prevent freezer burn. When stored properly, the carnitas will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or reserved cooking juices to keep the meat moist. You can also rewarm in the microwave, covered, stirring occasionally for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

Pork butt is ideal because it’s well-marbled and becomes tender when slow-cooked. However, pork shoulder is a good alternative with similar results. Avoid lean cuts to keep those juicy carnitas.

Is it necessary to crisp the pork after slow cooking?

Crisping the shredded pork in a skillet adds wonderful texture and caramelized flavor that sets authentic carnitas apart. While you can skip this step, you’ll miss out on that signature crispiness.

How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust the heat?

This recipe has a mild to medium heat level from the jalapeño pepper. Feel free to remove all the seeds or omit the jalapeño if you prefer less spice, or add more for an extra kick.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can braise the pork in a covered Dutch oven at 300°F for about 3 to 4 hours until tender. Just follow the same seasoning and searing steps.

What can I do with the leftover cooking juices?

The juices are packed with flavor and perfect for drizzling over the carnitas, mixing into rice, or using as a base for a tasty dipping sauce. Don’t waste this flavorful liquid!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Pork Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork) Recipe enough. It’s an incredibly satisfying dish that’s flavorful, versatile, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether for a weeknight meal or a festive get-together, slow-cooking pork to tender perfection and finishing it with that perfect crisp is a game changer. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection!

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