Garlic Studded Slow Cooker Carnitas Tacos
Try this Garlic Studded Slow Cooker Carnitas Tacos recipe
Try this Garlic Studded Slow Cooker Carnitas Tacos recipe
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 lime
- 1 tsp thyme
- 20 corn tortillas
- for the roast
- 4- 4 1/2 lb pork roast *picnic loin or shoulder cut
- 1-2 tbsp frying oil *i used coconut oil
- 1 extra lg brown onion
- 6-7 cloves garlic
- 3/4 cup orange juice *juice of 2 oranges
- for the dry rub
- 1/4 chipotle powder *optional
- 1- 1 1/2 tbsp dried oregano *depending on taste preferences
- [b]for the tacos[/b]
- favorite salsa
- Carbohydrate 16.2859396877703 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.05091781258288 g
- Fiber 2.43768444192186 g
- Protein 2.07137187506063 g
- Saturated Fat 0.167905750014603 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -20 serving (40g)
- Sodium 185.180906254995 mg
- Sugar 13.8482552458485 g
- Trans Fat 0.111730312513723 g
- Calories 79 calories
Step-by-step
- Let roast sit at room temperature while preparing rub and other ingredients.
- Cut onion in half, then into strips and then line bottom of slow cooker with cut onions. Set aside.
- In a small bowl mix together chili powder, chipotle, oregano, thyme, sea salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Peel and cut garlic cloves into slivers, yielding at least 20 pieces of garlic. Puncture roast with a medium knife and insert garlic into roast with finger. Insert about 5-6 garlic slivers for larger sides of roast and about 3 to 4 for smaller sides of roast.
- Once roast is studded with garlic, sprinkle on dry rub and then rub onto all sides.
- Searing the roast is an optional step that adds an extra layer of flavor by caramelizing the meat. Heat a large frying pan over medium high heat. Add oil. Once oil is heated, sear each side of roast for approximately 2-3 mins or until browned.
- Add roast to slow cooker. Pour orange juice onto the side of roast. Cut lime into wedges and squeeze by hand into slow cooker. Add squeezed lime wedges to roast.
- Cook Times- 4 1/2 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low for sliced pork- internal temp about 150?. 5 1/2- 6 hours on high or 10-11 hours on low for shredded pork- internal temp approximately 175?.
- Once roast is done cooking, remove from slow cooker and let rest for about 15 mins. After resting either slice meat or shred with two forks.
- For the Tacos- Heat corn tortillas over gas burner for about 30-45 secs per side. Fill with carnitas meat and favorite fillings.
Garlic Studded Slow Cooker Carnitas Tacos: A Weeknight Wonder
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, work deadlines, and the never-ending to-do list, whipping up something from scratch often takes a back seat. But I've discovered a secret weapon in my culinary arsenal that consistently delivers flavorful, comforting food without demanding hours in the kitchen: the slow cooker. And this Garlic Studded Slow Cooker Carnitas Tacos recipe is a prime example.
This recipe isn't just about convenience; it’s about unlocking bold, authentic flavors with minimal effort. The slow cooker works its magic, transforming a humble pork roast into succulent, tender carnitas, infused with the fragrant aroma of garlic and spices. The beauty lies in the simplicity. You essentially throw everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it – allowing the slow cooking process to do all the work while you tend to other responsibilities. The result? A symphony of tastes that's sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. My family raves about these tacos, and it’s become a regular staple in our weekly meal rotation.
The process is unbelievably straightforward. You start by preparing a simple rub that blends chili powder, chipotle pepper (for a touch of smoky heat), oregano, thyme, sea salt, and pepper. Then, the real magic begins: studding the pork roast with garlic cloves. This simple step elevates the flavor profile to a whole new level. The garlic cloves, slow-cooked alongside the meat, infuse the pork with an irresistible garlicky richness. Once the pork is seasoned and studded, it goes straight into the slow cooker, where it's bathed in the bright and refreshing flavors of orange juice and lime. The combination of citrus and spices creates a complex, vibrant taste that complements the tender pork perfectly.
I typically opt for a picnic loin or shoulder cut of pork roast; these cuts are naturally flavorful and become incredibly tender after several hours of slow cooking. Depending on whether you prefer sliced or shredded carnitas, adjust the cooking time accordingly. For sliced carnitas, aim for a lower internal temperature, while for shredded carnitas, a higher temperature is needed to ensure the meat easily breaks apart. Remember to let the pork rest once it's done cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the carnitas stay incredibly moist and flavorful.
The best part? Once the carnitas are ready, assembling the tacos is a breeze. I love using warm corn tortillas – they add a wonderful rustic element and absorb the delicious carnitas juices beautifully. From there, let your creativity run wild! Load up the tacos with your favorite toppings: a vibrant salsa (I always have a homemade batch on hand), a dollop of creamy guacamole, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and maybe even a squeeze of extra lime juice. The possibilities are endless.
This Garlic Studded Slow Cooker Carnitas Tacos recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple cooking. It’s a celebration of flavor, convenience, and the joy of creating delicious food without sacrificing time or energy. It’s a recipe that embodies the spirit of nourishing your family with love and flavorful food, even amidst the whirlwind of a busy life. So, next time you find yourself pressed for time but craving a hearty and flavorful meal, reach for your slow cooker and embark on this culinary adventure. You won't regret it!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, sear the pork roast before placing it in the slow cooker. This adds a beautiful caramelization that enhances the overall taste.
- Feel free to experiment with different spice combinations. Adding cumin, paprika, or even a touch of cayenne pepper can add exciting new dimensions to the flavor profile.
- If you don’t have fresh oranges and limes, you can substitute with store-bought juices, though the fresh-squeezed version is undeniably superior.
- For a vegetarian twist, substitute the pork with hearty vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes.
- Leftover carnitas can be stored in the refrigerator for several days and used in other dishes, such as burritos, quesadillas, or even salads.
This recipe is a true testament to how simple cooking can still be incredibly delicious. It’s perfect for weeknights when time is precious but satisfying meals are non-negotiable. This is more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, nourishing our families with love and flavorful food remains a priority.
