Carnitas Recipe
Make Carnitas Recipe in just 10h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Meat
Liquids
Aromatics
Toppings (optional)
Method
Preparation
- 1
Prepare the Pork
Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks.
- 2
Season the Meat
In a large bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and bay leaves. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork pieces.
Cooking
- 3
Sear the Pork
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork pieces on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side).
- 4
Combine Ingredients
In a slow cooker, combine the seared pork, orange juice, lime juice, chicken broth, garlic cloves, and diced onion.
- 5
Cook the Carnitas
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreddable.
Final Steps
- 6
Shred the Meat
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- 7
Crisp the Carnitas
For added texture, you can spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for about 5-10 minutes until crispy, stirring halfway through.
- 8
Serve
Serve the carnitas in tacos, burritos, or bowls, topped with cilantro, diced onion, and lime wedges if desired.



