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Savory Carnitas Crockpot Recipe for Effortless Taco Nights

Savory Carnitas Crockpot Recipe for Delicious Taco Nights

Savory Carnitas Crockpot Recipe for Effortless Taco Nights is a delightful dish that turns weeknight dinners into festive experiences.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pork
  • 3 pounds Pork Shoulder Look for a well-marbled cut for tender, juicy carnitas.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances the flavor profile; adjust according to your taste preferences.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds depth; freshly cracked is recommended.
For the Marinade
  • 1 cup Orange Juice Freshly squeezed provides natural sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice Brightens the flavors.
  • 4 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh garlic elevates the dish.
For the Spices
  • 1 medium Chopped Onion Yellow onion brings sweetness.
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin Warm, earthy notes.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Mexican oregano is ideal.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Adjust the heat to your preference.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Infuse depth of flavor.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks, roughly 2-3 inches.
  2. Place the pork chunks in the slow cooker. Squeeze in freshly juiced orange and lime, followed by minced garlic and chopped onion. Mix in cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and toss in the bay leaves.
  3. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
  4. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Preheat the oven broiler to high. Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5-8 minutes until the edges are golden and crispy.
  6. Drizzle some reserved cooking liquid over the crispy pork and mix gently before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make ahead for meal prep or freezer storage.

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