Deliciously Tender Carnitas: A Flavorful Mexican Delight

Carnitas are a flavorful and tender Mexican dish that combines slow-cooked pork with aromatic seasonings for a satisfying, juicy meal. The slow-cooking process allows the pork to absorb all the spices and become melt-in-your-mouth tender. Whether served in tacos, burritos, or on a salad, these carnitas are versatile and packed with flavor. The balance of cumin, garlic, and orange juice enhances the pork’s richness, while the crispy edges add a delightful contrast. If you're looking for a healthier twist, you can use chicken or turkey as a substitute for pork. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering with friends.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt), cut into large chunks
  
  

• 1 onion, quartered
  
  

• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  
  

• 1 orange, juiced (reserve peel)
  
  

• 1 lime, juiced
  
  

• 2 bay leaves
  
  

• 1 tsp ground cumin
  
  

• 1 tsp oregano
  
  

• 1 tsp chili powder
  
  

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  
  

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  
  

• 1/2 tsp salt
  
  

• 1/2 tsp black pepper
  
  

• 2 cups chicken broth
  
  

Directions

1. Place the pork chunks, onion, garlic, and bay leaves in a large slow cooker.
   
   

2. Add the orange juice, lime juice, and the reserved peel from the orange to the slow cooker.
   
   

3. Sprinkle in the cumin, oregano, chili powder, cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the pork.
   
   

4. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker and stir to combine.
   
   

5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
   
   

6. Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred the meat using two forks.
   
   

7. Optional: For crispy carnitas, transfer the shredded pork to a hot skillet and cook in its own juices for 5-10 minutes, until crispy edges form.
   
   

8. Serve the carnitas in tacos, burritos, or on a salad, and enjoy the burst of flavor!
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 290 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 27 g
  
  

• Fat: 18 g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 4 g
  
  

• Fiber: 1 g
  
  

• Sugar: 2 g
  
  

• Sodium: 650 mg