Have you ever experienced the pure delight that is slow-cooked, juicy and flavorful carnitas? The kind that is so tender, it practically melts in your mouth? Carnitas, a Mexican dish of slow-cooked pork, is one of my all-time favorite comfort foods. There’s nothing quite as comforting as coming home to the aroma of carnitas simmering away in a crockpot, their flavors melding together in a delicious harmony. It’s like a symphony for your senses!
Why Carnitas at Home?
But why should you wait for a special occasion or a trip to your favorite Mexican restaurant to enjoy this delicacy? Wouldn’t you love to have the ability to prepare this in the comfort of your own home whenever you crave it? The truth is, making carnitas at home is easier than you might think, especially with the help of a crockpot. So, let’s take a culinary journey together to explore the art of making mouthwatering crockpot carnitas.
The Beauty of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is like nature’s way of tenderizing meat. As the heat gradually permeates through the meat, it breaks down the tough fibers, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s the perfect method for cooking carnitas, enhancing the flavor and texture of the pork to perfection.
Moreover, using a crockpot for slow cooking is a great way to save time and effort. You simply set it and forget it, letting the crockpot do all the work while you go about your day. The result? A delicious meal waiting for you when you’re ready to eat.
Choosing the Right Cut
The cut of pork you choose for your carnitas can make a significant difference in the final outcome. While you can use other cuts, a boneless pork shoulder or pork butt is generally preferred for its balance of lean meat and fat. This combination ensures that your carnitas will be juicy, flavorful, and tender.
When shopping for your pork, look for a piece with a good amount of marbling. The marbled fat will melt during the slow cooking process, infusing the meat with flavor and keeping it moist.
Spice It Up
Carnitas are all about flavor, and the choice of spices is key. Traditional carnitas recipes use a combination of earthy, spicy, and aromatic flavors. These generally include oregano, cumin, chili powder, garlic, and onion.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with your spice blend. Personalize it to suit your taste buds. Just remember: the goal is to achieve a balance of flavors that complements the pork without overpowering it.
How to Prepare Your Carnitas
Ingredients
- 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rub the pork with the olive oil, then the spice mixture.
- Place the pork in the crockpot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic.
- Pour the chicken broth over the top.
- Cook on low for 8 hours until the pork is tender and easily pulled apart.
- Shred the pork and serve with your favorite sides or in tortillas for tacos.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 350 per serving