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Quick Meals, Big Yields – Because Time Tastes Good

Authentic Mexican Carnitas Recipe – Slow Cooker & Crispy Perfection!

Authentic Mexican Carnitas Recipe – Slow Cooker & Crispy Perfection!

Slow Cooker Carnitas – Juicy, Flavorful & Crispy Mexican Pulled Pork This Authentic Mexican Carnitas Recipe delivers incredibly tender, juicy pulled pork with crispy, caramelized edges. Slow-cooked in a blend of citrus, spices, and a touch of Coke, this recipe is perfect for tacos, burritos, bowls, or salads. Whether you broil it in the oven or crisp it in a skillet, these homemade carnitas will bring rich, traditional flavors to your table. Try this easy, foolproof recipe and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home!

Vikash Barjo

3/5/20252 min read

Authentic Mexican Carnitas Recipe – Slow Cooker & Crispy Perfection!

Authentic Mexican Carnitas Recipe

Authentic Mexican Carnitas Recipe – Slow Cooker & Crispy Perfection!

Carnitas, the beloved Mexican pulled pork, is a must-try dish packed with rich, juicy flavors and crispy, caramelized edges. This easy slow-cooker recipe delivers incredibly tender pork that you can enjoy in tacos, burritos, bowls, or even salads. The secret? A blend of citrus, spices, and a touch of Coke for the perfect balance of sweetness and depth!

Why You’ll Love This Carnitas Recipe

✔ Easy to Make – The slow cooker does most of the work!

✔ Juicy & Crispy – Slow-cooked until tender, then crisped to perfection.

✔ Authentic Flavors – A classic mix of spices, citrus, and a secret ingredient!

✔ Versatile – Perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, and more.

Ingredients

Pork: 4 pounds boneless pork butt or shoulder (skinless)

Seasoning: 3-4 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon ground cumin

Aromatics: 1 large brown or white onion (cut into wedges), 8 cloves garlic (smashed)

Citrus: Juice of 2 limes, Juice of 2 large oranges (or ¾ cup natural orange juice)

Secret Ingredient: ¾ cup Coke (Mexican Coke preferred)

Other: 2 bay leaves

How to Make Carnitas

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Rinse and pat dry the pork with a paper towel.

Step 2: Slow Cook

Place the pork in a 6-quart slow cooker.

Add salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, onion, garlic, lime juice, orange juice, Coke, and bay leaves.

Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.

Step 3: Shred the Pork

Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.

Save the cooking liquid—it’s packed with flavor!

How to Crisp Carnitas

In the Oven:

1. Preheat the broiler to high.

2. Spread the shredded pork on a lightly greased baking sheet.

3. Pour 1 cup of the reserved cooking liquid over the pork.

4. Broil for 5-10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and crispy.

On the Stovetop:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat.

2. Add the pork in small batches and cook until crispy.

3. Pour ½ cup of the reserved liquid over the pork and continue cooking until caramelized.

Serving Suggestions

Carnitas is incredibly versatile! Serve it in:

Tacos – With warm tortillas, cilantro, onions, and lime.

Burritos – Wrapped with rice, beans, and salsa.

Nachos – Loaded with cheese and guacamole.

Bowls & Salads – Over rice or greens for a low-carb option.

Tips for the Best Carnitas

✔ Use pork shoulder – It has the perfect fat content for juicy carnitas.

✔ Don’t skip the Coke! – It adds a subtle sweetness and caramelization.

✔ Save the cooking juices – They keep the pork moist and flavorful.

✔ Crisp right before serving – For the best texture, crisp in the oven or stovetop just before eating.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 233 kcal

Protein: 29g

Carbs: 8g

Fat: 9g

Sugar: 5g

Final Thoughts

These slow-cooker carnitas are the perfect balance of juicy, tender pork with crispy edges. Whether you enjoy them in tacos, burritos, or bowls, this authentic recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen! Try it out and let us know how you serve your carnitas!

Want more delicious recipes? Stay tuned for more easy and flavorful meal ideas!