Easy Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Tacos
Try this Easy Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Tacos recipe.
Try this Easy Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Tacos recipe.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- sour cream
- fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 tbsp. dried oregano
- 2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp. ground cumin
- 4-5 lbs. pork shoulder/pork butt trimmed of excess fat
- 1 large yellow or red onion sliced
- 3-4 cloves garlic minced or pressed
- 1 red or green bell pepper ribs and seeds removed, sliced
- 1/2 bottle (6 oz.) of your favorite beer (stock can be substi
- 1 tsp. liquid smoke
- 18 to 24 tortillalandâ® flour tortillas cooked according to package instructions
- 2 tbsp. sea salt
- 1 tbsp. fresh ground black pepper
- 1 tsp. cayenne pepper or to taste
- 1 tsp. ancho chili powder or to taste
- 1 tsp. chipotle chili powder or to taste
- avocado pitted and chopped
- fresh jalapeno
- fresh tomatoes chopped
- black beans (i used canned to keep it easy and the
- mexican shredded cheese
- Carbohydrate 7.56411304047355 g
- Cholesterol 1.3 mg
- Fat 0.531798530101135 g
- Fiber 0.461188413005271 g
- Protein 0.322838402816432 g
- Saturated Fat 0.263435324075101 g
- Serving Size 1 1 to 24 (24g)
- Sodium 524.613553242958 mg
- Sugar 7.10292462746828 g
- Trans Fat 0.0564872326431736 g
- Calories 35 calories
Step-by-step
- Place a slow cooker liner in the bowl of the slow cooker or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add onion, garlic and bell pepper slices to the bottom of the bowl.
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients for the spice rub and mix to combine.
- Massage the spice rub evenly over all sides of the pork and then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add beer, orange juice, liquid smoke and tomato paste to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours or until the pork literally falls apart and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the lid of the slow cooker and shred the pork with a couple of forks, Stir to combine with the juices.
- Leaving the lid off of the slow cooker, turn it up to high and let cook for 20-30 minutes to let all the flavors come together.
- Serve warm wrapped up in freshly cooked tortillas and the toppings you desire.
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Tacos: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious, healthy meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house running smoothly, the last thing I want is to spend hours slaving over a hot stove. That's where my trusty slow cooker comes in – a lifesaver in the kitchen! This Easy Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Tacos recipe is a perfect example of how simple and satisfying weeknight meals can be. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its incredible flavor but also in its hands-off preparation. You simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a perfectly tender, flavorful pork that practically falls apart at the touch of a fork.
The rich, savory flavors of the carnitas are achieved through a simple yet effective spice rub. The combination of chili powder, cumin, oregano, and a touch of cinnamon creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen throughout the cooking process. The addition of orange juice and beer adds a delightful tanginess and depth of flavor that elevates the pork to a whole new level. I prefer using a dark beer for its robust character, but you can experiment with different types to find your favorite combination. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy pork that's perfect for tacos.
The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite toppings. I love to pile mine high with fresh cilantro, chopped onions, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime. Other great topping options include shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, and even a little bit of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond the ease and flexibility, this recipe also offers a chance to connect with family and friends. The vibrant colors and aromas of the carnitas are sure to draw everyone in, creating a welcoming atmosphere during mealtime. The process of assembling the tacos together can become a fun activity, especially for children, who love the interactive element of adding their chosen toppings.
Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Pork: A pork shoulder or pork butt is the ideal cut for this recipe due to its high fat content, which ensures a tender and juicy outcome during the long slow cooking process.
- Don't Skip the Spice Rub: The spice rub is key to the flavor of these carnitas. Make sure to massage it thoroughly into the pork to ensure even seasoning.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a spicier carnitas, add more cayenne pepper or chipotle chili powder. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of these spices.
- Shred Carefully: Once the pork is cooked, it should shred easily with two forks. Be careful not to over-shred it, as you want to retain some texture.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook the pork ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before serving.
- Tortilla Selection: Experiment with different types of tortillas – corn, flour, or even gluten-free options. Choose your favorite!
This Easy Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Tacos recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a time-saver, a family-friendly option, and a testament to how even the busiest of schedules can still enjoy delicious and satisfying home-cooked food. So, ditch the takeout menus, grab your slow cooker, and get ready to experience the magic of effortless, flavor-packed carnitas!
I hope this recipe brings as much joy and satisfaction to your kitchen as it does to mine. Happy cooking!
