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Easy Crockpot Carnitas Recipe

Easy Crockpot Carnitas are the perfect centerpiece for a flavorful meal, and the right sides can elevate the experience even further.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 222kcal

Equipment

  • Crockpot

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup fire-roasted tomato salsa
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle-style hot sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Juice from 2 fresh limes
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 5 fresh garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
  • 12 oz. light Mexican beer
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 4 –5 lbs. boneless pork shoulder roast

Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

  • Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s essential to have everything ready before you dive into the cooking process. Trust me; this will save you time and stress!

Step 2: Prepare the Pork

  • Rinse the pork shoulder under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps it sear better. Then, cut it into roughly large chunks. This is not an exact science—just make sure they are somewhat uniform.

Step 3: Season the Pork

  • In a shallow bowl, combine the salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cinnamon. Rub this spice mix generously over the pork chunks. Don’t be shy here; you want every piece to be coated with that delicious goodness.

Step 4: Sauté (Optional)

  • If you have a few extra minutes, consider sautéing the pork in a skillet until browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavors but isn't mandatory. Up to you!

Step 5: Assemble in the Crockpot

  • Place the seasoned pork into your crockpot. Pour in the fire-roasted salsa, lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, chipotle-hot sauce, brown sugar, and oregano over the top. Trust the process; it’ll come together beautifully!

Step 6: Add the Beer

  • Finally, pour in the beer. This ingredient brings so much flavor and helps tenderize the pork as it cooks.

Step 7: Set and Forget

  • Put the lid on your crockpot and cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The pork should be incredibly tender by the end.

Step 8: Shred and Crisp

  • Once cooking is done, shred the pork using two forks. Place the shredded pork on a baking sheet, spreading it out evenly. You can drizzle with the cooking juices and broil it for 5-10 minutes if you like those crispy bits.

Notes

  • Select Quality Meat: Choose a well-marbled pork shoulder for the best flavor and tenderness.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and freshly squeezed citrus make a noticeable difference compared to dried counterparts.
  • Don’t Rush Cooking Time: The low-and-slow method is key to achieving that tender meat, so resist the urge to rush.
  • Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your carnitas and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Save the Juices: The cooking juices are flavor-packed! Use them to enhance your carnitas or as a base for another dish.
Keyword: Easy Crockpot Carnitas Recipe