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!
