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Crispy Crockpot Carnitas

Crispy Crockpot Carnitas that Will Transform Your Tacos

Crispy Crockpot Carnitas are a crowd-pleasing dish that will elevate your tacos, ensuring juicy and flavorful meat with a crave-worthy crispy exterior.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Carnitas
  • 3 lbs Pork Shoulder Choose boneless for easier shredding.
  • 1 tablespoon Cumin Adds warm, earthy notes.
  • 1 tablespoon Salt Opt for sea salt for a cleaner taste.
  • 2 teaspoon Dried Oregano Offers herbal undertones.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Provides a touch of spiciness.
  • ½ tablespoon Garlic Powder Feel free to use fresh minced garlic.
  • ½ tablespoon Smoked Paprika Imparts a smoky flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adds mild heat and flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Offers a hint of citrus.
  • pinch Cinnamon Enhances flavor complexity.
  • 1 lime Lime Juice Brightens the dish with acidity.
For Crisping the Carnitas
  • 1 tablespoon Oil or Cooking Spray Helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine cumin, salt, dried oregano, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon. Mix well.
  2. Place boneless pork shoulder into the slow cooker and rub the spice mixture all over it. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the meat.
  3. Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat for 15 hours.
  4. After cooking, transfer the pork shoulder to a plate. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding with two forks.
  5. Pour ½ to ¾ cup of reserved cooking juices over the warm shredded pork and mix gently.
  6. To crisp the meat, broil or pan-sear the shredded pork until golden brown and crispy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 27gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or broiler for best results.

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