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Slow Cooker Carnitas

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A simple and flavorful dish that transforms pork shoulder into tender carnitas using a slow cooker.

Ingredients

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  • 3–4 pounds pork shoulder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 orange, juiced
  • Bay leaves

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned.
  2. Place the seared pork in a slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper, lime juice, orange juice, and bay leaves.
  3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours until the pork is tender.
  4. Use two forks to shred the pork right in the slow cooker and mix it well with the juices.
  5. Serve the carnitas in tacos, burritos, or over rice with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://ameliasweets.com/2026/08/07/slow-cooker-carnitas/

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