Carnitas Crockpot Easy Dinner Idea

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

8 hours

Total Time

8 hours 15 minutes

Servings

6-8 servings

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 orange, juiced
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cut the meat into large chunks, about 3-4 pieces.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork pieces and sear them on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is optional but adds depth of flavor.
3. Transfer the seared pork to your crockpot. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the pork.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Sprinkle this spice mixture evenly over the pork.
5. Pour the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth over the meat.
6. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
7. Once cooked, remove the pork from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the meat using two forks.
8. To serve, you can either return the shredded meat to the crockpot to soak up the juices or serve it immediately with your choice of tortillas, rice, beans, and toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Enjoy your flavorful and easy crockpot carnitas with family and friends!