Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt), trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Tortillas, avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges for serving
Substitution tip: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a chopped jalapeño to the mix. For a milder version, you can skip the chili powder.
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chunks and sear on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the seared pork to your slow cooker. Add the orange juice, lime juice, chopped onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, preheat your oven to broil. Transfer the shredded pork to a baking sheet, leaving the juices in the slow cooker.
- Broil the pork for 5-10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning—this is where the magic happens!
- While the pork crisps up, skim excess fat from the juices in the slow cooker, then drizzle about 1/2 cup of the juices over the crispy carnitas to keep them moist and flavorful.
Personal tip: Use those senses! Listen for the sizzle as the pork broils and let the aroma guide you—it’s worth the anticipation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International