Slow Cooker Carnitas are a classic Mexican fare, typically served at a family gathering, potluck, or BBQ. They are pockets of rich and juicy, slow-cooked pork that are irresistibly crispy, melt-in-your-mouth, and packed with flavor. Believe me, guys, these scrumptious carnitas are love at first bite! They fit just about any occasion and they are sure-fire crowd-pleasers that no one can resist. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you more time to bask in the glory of your culinary prowess.
Heard of love at first sight? Prepare for love at first bite! Your taste buds will go bonkers for these carnitas, your guests will rave about ’em, and you’ll be crowned the King (or Queen) of the kitchen! Here’s the deal- prepping is no fuss and total time won’t send your schedule into a tailspin. Let’s check out the specifics.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 servings
- Yield: 3 lbs. carnitas
Set and ready to go! Let’s dive bomb into the real meat of this recipe (pun intended!).
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
- 4 lbs pork shoulder
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 onion
- 2 oranges
- 2 limes
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoon pepper
Equipment:
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
Now, about those oranges – they really make the dish pop with a hit of sweetness and acidity. Garlic and onion help keep the meat moist and flavorful during its long cook time. As for substitutes, you can replace the pork shoulder with pork tenderloin if preferred.
How To Make Slow Cooker Carnitas
- Start by rubbing the pork shoulder with the salt and pepper. Then, place it in the slow cooker.
- Top the pork with the chopped garlic and onion. Squeeze the juice from the oranges and limes over everything, tossing the spent halves in the cooker as well.
- Set your slow cooker to low and let it do its thing for 8-10 hours.
Tips For The Best Results
- Use fresh citrus – it makes a big difference in flavor.
- When the meat is done cooking, don’t forget to broil it for that extra crisp!
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate the carnitas within two hours of cooking, preferably in shallow containers.
- For longer storage, package the carnitas in freezer bags, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken instead of pork?
A: Of course! Chicken thighs would make a good substitute, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
A: No problemo! You can also braise the meat in a dutch oven for about 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Facts of Slow Cooker Carnitas
Per serving: 300 calories; 15g fat; 13g carbohydrates; 27g protein.
The verdict is clear – Slow Cooker Carnitas are a definite win! They’re scrumptious, easy to make, and are perfect for any get-together. Pair them with some warm tortillas, salsa and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and you’ve got yourself a fiesta! Cheerio!
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