Tender Crock Pot Pork Carnitas

<p>These Crock Pot Pork Carnitas are a fantastic way to enjoy tender, flavorful pork with a perfect balance of spices and a crispy finish. Made with simple ingredients and cooked low and slow, they transform an everyday pork shoulder into a mouthwatering meal ideal for tacos, burritos, or just enjoying on their own.</p> <p>I first made these on Cinco de Mayo and they quickly became a family favorite. The aroma while cooking was incredible and the crispy finish always gets compliments when I serve this at gatherings.</p>

Ingredients

<ul><li><strong>Boston butt pork shoulder roast:</strong> look for one with a good fat cap for juicy, flavorful meat</li><li><strong>Olive or vegetable oil:</strong> helps the spice rub stick and promotes better browning</li><li><strong>Creole seasoning:</strong> adds a smoky and slightly spicy base; you can find this ready-made or make your own for more control</li><li><strong>Kosher salt:</strong> essential for drawing out the flavors and seasoning the meat deeply</li><li><strong>Cumin:</strong> provides an earthy warmth that complements the pork beautifully</li><li><strong>Oregano:</strong> offers a subtle herbal note that elevates the dish</li><li><strong>Onion powder:</strong> adds a mild sweetness without the texture of fresh onions</li><li><strong>Fresh lime:</strong> brightens the final dish and tenderizes the pork with its acidity</li></ul>

Instructions

<dl><dt><strong>Sauté the Aromatics:</strong></dt><dd>This recipe does not require sautéing, but get all your spices ready by combining creole seasoning, salt, cumin, oregano, and onion powder in a bowl. Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors.</dd><dt><strong>Prepare the Pork:</strong></dt><dd>Unwrap the pork shoulder and gently dry it well with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This ensures better adhesion for the spice rub and helps develop flavor during cooking.</dd><dt><strong>Apply Oil and Spices:</strong></dt><dd>Rub the pork evenly with oil to help the seasoning adhere well. Then coat the entire roast with the spice mixture, massaging it in thoroughly to ensure every part of the meat is well seasoned.</dd><dt><strong>Refrigerate to Marinate:</strong></dt><dd>Wrap the seasoned pork tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight if possible. This resting period lets the spices penetrate deeply, making the carnitas even more flavorful.</dd><dt><strong>Slow Cook the Pork:</strong></dt><dd>Remove the pork from the fridge and place it fat side up in the crock pot. Cook on high for six hours or low for ten. The pork will cook in its own juices, so no extra liquid is necessary.</dd><dt><strong>Shred and Season:</strong></dt><dd>Once cooked, transfer the pork to a foil-lined baking sheet. Reserve half a cup of the cooking liquid for later use. Remove the bone and any large fatty pieces. Shred the pork into chunks, then squeeze fresh lime juice all over the meat and toss in the squeezed wedges for a flavor boost.</dd><dt><strong>Broil for Crispiness:</strong></dt><dd>Drizzle the reserved cooking liquid over the shredded pork to keep it juicy. Place the baking sheet under a high broiler until the meat crisps up on the edges, about five minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.</dd><dt><strong>Serve:</strong></dt><dd>Remove from the oven and serve immediately with warm corn tortillas and your favorite toppings like chopped onions, cilantro, or salsa.</dd></dl>

<p>One of my favorite things about this recipe is how the oregano sneaks in a subtle complexity that balances the smoky creole seasoning. This dish also always brings back memories of festive family dinners where everyone gathers around to assemble their own tacos.</p>

Storage Tips

<p>Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To revive crispy edges, reheat in a skillet instead of the microwave.</p>

Ingredient Substitutions

<p>If creole seasoning isn’t available, a mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder works well. Use boneless pork shoulder if bone-in is not accessible but adjust the cooking time slightly as boneless tends to cook a bit faster.</p>

Serving Suggestions

<p>Serve the pork on warm corn or flour tortillas with traditional toppings like diced onion, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime. Add pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra brightness.</p>

<p>These carnitas make an easy, crowd-pleasing meal for gatherings. A quick broil and a squeeze of lime transform tender pork into something unforgettable.</p>

Common Recipe Questions

→ What cut of pork works best for carnitas?

Boston butt or pork shoulder with a good fat cap works best to maintain moisture and flavor during slow cooking.

→ How long should the pork marinate before cooking?

Marinating the pork overnight with the seasoning blend enhances flavor penetration and tenderness.

→ Is additional liquid needed in the slow cooker?

No extra liquid is necessary; the pork cooks in its own rendered juices, keeping it moist.

→ How do you achieve crispy edges on the carnitas?

After shredding the cooked pork, broil it briefly with some cooking liquid to develop crispy, flavorful edges.

→ What spices are used in the seasoning mix?

The blend includes creole seasoning, cumin, oregano, kosher salt, and onion powder to create a vibrant flavor profile.