Description
Crockpot Carnitas is a delectable Mexican classic that transforms simple pork into tender, flavorful morsels, perfect for any gathering or casual dinner. This easy recipe requires minimal prep time, allowing you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker works its magic. The combination of spices, orange juice, and a hint of beer creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have your guests raving. Whether served in tacos, burritos, or as a topping on nachos, these carnitas are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Enjoy the convenience of meal prep with leftovers that taste just as good the next day!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pounds pork butt
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large orange (zest and juice)
- 12 oz Blue Moon or similar wheat beer
Instructions
- Cut the pork butt into four even pieces and place in the slow cooker.
- Add diced onion, chipotle chili powder, oregano, cumin, and salt on top.
- Zest the orange over the spices and squeeze all juice into the crockpot.
- Pour the beer over all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours until tender.
- For crispy edges, transfer cooked pork to a sheet pan, shred with forks, drizzle with some cooking liquid, and broil for 5 to 6 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours (LOW)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg