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Slow Cooker Carnitas

This Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe offers tender, flavorful pork shoulder that is slow-cooked to perfection, perfect for tacos, bowls, or salads.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 lbs Pork shoulder Rich and flavorful cut that becomes tender when slow-cooked.
  • 1 medium Onion Adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Infuses the meat with savory goodness.
  • 1 tbsp Oregano Brings fragrant herbal notes.
  • 1 tbsp Cumin Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
  • 2 leaves Bay leaves Provides a subtle aromatic hint.
  • 1 tbsp Salt Enhances all flavors.
  • 1 tsp Pepper Adds a touch of spice.

Method
 

Phase 1 – Prep
  1. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder.
  2. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper together.
Phase 2 – Cook
  1. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and rub it with the spice mixture.
  2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bay leaves around the pork.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and shreds easily.
Phase 3 – Serve
  1. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
  2. Serve the carnitas immediately, or crisp it up in a skillet for extra texture.
  3. Enjoy with your favorite sides, tortillas, or toppings.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, sear the pork in a skillet first. Reserve some cooking liquid to keep meat moist. Experiment with different spices for a twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.