Delicious Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe
Summary: When it comes to succulent and flavorful meat dishes, this slow cooker carnitas recipe tops the list. Traditionally known as ‘little meats,’ carnitas are usually fried and then braised, but with this easy slow cooker method, you maintain the same delightful flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for filling tamales, enchiladas, tacos, and burritos, these carnitas also pair wonderfully with barbecue sauce on buns.
Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 hours
Total Time: 10 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 10
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon crumbled dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 (4 pound) boneless pork shoulder roast
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions for the Perfect Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe
- First, mix the salt, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Rub the spice blend all over the pork shoulder roast, ensuring it’s coated evenly.
- Place the seasoned pork into your slow cooker. Add the bay leaves and pour in the chicken broth.
- Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for about 10 hours. Meanwhile, you can prepare other meals or relax.
- Once the cooking time is up, remove the pork from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker to soak in the flavorful juices before serving.
- Finally, serve your carnitas in tacos, burritos, or any dish of your choice. Enjoy!
Healthier Cooking Tips
For a healthier alternative, you can drain the excess fat after cooking and before shredding. Additionally, broil the shredded pork in a preheated oven for a few minutes to achieve a crispy texture without excessive oil.
Additional Notes
Above all, this slow cooker carnitas recipe captures the essence of traditional flavors with minimal effort. The use of aromatic spices not only provides richness but offers numerous health benefits. For instance, cumin is known to aid digestion and boost the immune system, while cinnamon is praised for its antioxidant properties. Moreover, the slow cooking method ensures that your meat is tender and packed with flavor without the need for added fats.
Try this recipe today to enjoy an authentic taste of Mexico right in your home. Whether for a festive occasion or a regular meal, this dish is bound to leave you and your guests craving more!
