Servings: 10
Calories: 372kcal
Equipment
- skillet
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
For the Dry Rub:
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano leaves
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Main Ingredients:
- 2½ teaspoons coarse salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 kg / 4 lb boneless skinless pork shoulder (or 2.5 kg / 5 lb bone-in)
- 1 medium onion roughly chopped
- 4 garlic cloves finely minced
- ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice from about 2 oranges
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Rub
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
Step 2: Season the Pork
- Rub the dry mixture all over the pork shoulder. Ensure every crevice is coated with the seasoning blend. This ensures maximum flavor infusion as it cooks.
Step 3: Chop and Add to Slow Cooker
- Place the roughly chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the seasoned pork on top.
Step 4: Add Citrus Juices
- Pour the freshly squeezed orange juice and lime juice over the pork. This sweet and tart addition will keep the meat moist and add a refreshing zing to the flavor profile.
Step 5: Set It and Forget It
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. I recommend the low setting for best results. During this time, the pork will cook and absorb all the lovely flavors.
Step 6: Crisp Up the Carnitas
- Once done, take the pork out and shred it with two forks. For that crispy edge, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet. Broil in the oven for about 5-10 minutes, until the edges are slightly browned and crispy. Keep an eye on it—you don’t want to burn this deliciousness!
Notes
- Use Citrus Zest: Adding a little orange or lime zest to the dry rub will enhance the citrus flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: For best results, let it cook low and slow. This gives the most tender meat.
- Save the Broth: The cooking liquid can be used as a sauce or base for another dish. It’s packed with flavor.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add other spices like chili powder for a kick, or even cinnamon for a unique flavor twist.
- Adjust the Cooking Time as Necessary: Depending on your slow cooker, cooking times may vary. Check for tenderness after the initial time.
Nutrition
Serving: 238g | Calories: 372kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 12.2g | Saturated Fat: 3.3g | Cholesterol: 47mg | Sodium: 1130mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 13g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!