Go Back

Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

Tender, juicy, citrus-infused pork cooked low and slow, then crisped to perfection for authentic carnitas flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Carnitas
  • 4-5 lbs pork shoulder trimmed
  • 1 white onion sliced
  • 6 cloves garlic smashed
  • 1 orange juiced, halves included
  • 2 limes juiced
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 2 bay leaves

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Trim excess fat from pork shoulder and pat dry.
  2. Mix spices and rub mixture all over the pork.
  3. Place onions, garlic, bay leaves, orange juice, lime juice, and broth into the slow cooker.
  4. Add pork and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 4–6 hours.
  5. Shred pork and strain cooking liquid.
  6. Spread meat on a baking sheet, pour cooking liquid, and broil until crispy.
  7. Serve hot with tortillas, rice, or desired toppings.

Notes

For extra crispy carnitas, broil in batches and add extra cooking liquid between rounds.