Discover how to make the perfect carnitas with this easy-to-follow recipe. Our carnitas are slow-cooked to achieve tender, flavorful pork with a crispy exterior. Ideal for tacos, burritos, or any Mexican-inspired dish, this recipe brings a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine right to your kitchen. Learn the secrets to achieving the perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness, and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills. 

Ingredients:

- 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 large onion, chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon ground cumin

- 1 tablespoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1 teaspoon chili powder

- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

- 1 cup orange juice

- 1/4 cup lime juice

- 1 cup chicken broth

- 2 bay leaves

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Sear the Pork: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chunks and sear on all sides until browned. Transfer the seared pork to a slow cooker.

Prepare the Seasoning: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Mix Ingredients: Stir in the ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

Combine and Cook: Pour in the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth. Stir to combine. Pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker. Add the bay leaves and season with salt and pepper.

Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat and the bay leaves.

Crisp the Pork: For a crispy texture, preheat your oven broiler. Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and caramelized. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Serve: Serve the carnitas in tacos, burritos, or your favorite Mexican dishes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges if desired.

Enjoy your delicious carnitas with your favorite toppings and sides!

Nutritional Values

Pork Shoulder

 - Calories: 250

 - Protein: 22g

 - Fat: 18g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Iron: 10% of Daily Value (DV)

Benefits:

 - High in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.

 - Rich in B vitamins, particularly B12, which is essential for red blood cell formation and nerve function.

 - Contains minerals like zinc and selenium, important for immune function and antioxidant defense.

Olive Oil

 - Calories: 120

 - Fat: 14g (of which 2g is saturated fat)

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Vitamin E: 10% DV

Benefits:

 - Contains monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

 - Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Onion

 - Calories: 45

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

 - Fiber: 2g

 - Vitamin C: 15% DV

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants like quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects.

 - Provides dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.

Garlic

 - Calories: 5

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin C: 1% DV

Benefits:

 - Contains allicin, a compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

 - May support cardiovascular health by improving blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Ground Cumin

 - Calories: 8

 - Protein: 0.4g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Iron: 16% DV

Benefits:

 - High in iron, which is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood.

 - May aid digestion and have antioxidant properties.

Dried Oregano

 - Calories: 5

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin K: 9% DV

Benefits:

 - Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

 - May support digestive health and immune function.

Smoked Paprika

 - Calories: 6

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin A: 18% DV

Benefits:

 - Contains capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting effects.

 - Provides vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune health.

Chili Powder

 - Calories: 8

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.4g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin C: 6% DV

Benefits:

 - Contains capsaicin and antioxidants, which may support metabolism and reduce inflammation.

 - Provides vitamin C, which supports immune function.

Cayenne Pepper (optional)

 - Calories: 6

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin A: 25% DV

Benefits:

 - Contains capsaicin, which may help with weight management and pain relief.

 - High in vitamin A, supporting eye health and immune function.

Orange Juice

 - Calories: 110

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 26g

 - Vitamin C: 120% DV

Benefits:

 - Extremely high in vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin integrity.

 - Contains antioxidants that help fight free radicals.

Lime Juice

 - Calories: 4

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin C: 20% DV

Benefits:

 - High in vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.

 - Contains antioxidants and compounds that may aid digestion.

Chicken Broth

 - Calories: 15

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sodium: 800mg

Benefits:

 - Provides some protein and electrolytes.

 - Can be a base for soups and stews, adding flavor without many calories.

Bay Leaves

 - Calories: 5

 - Protein: 0.1g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin A: 1% DV

Benefits:

 - Contains essential oils with antioxidant properties.

 - May aid digestion and help with anti-inflammatory effects.