Imagine tender, juicy pulled pork that practically melts in your mouth, infused with vibrant Mexican spices and a hint of citrusy orange - all prepared with minimal effort in your trusty crockpot! These carnitas are about to transform your dinner routine from boring to absolutely legendary, delivering restaurant-quality flavor right from your kitchen. Whether you're hosting a fiesta or craving a weeknight dinner that'll make everyone's taste buds dance, this pork tenderloin carnitas recipe is your ultimate culinary shortcut to deliciousness.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lb pork tenderloin
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup orange juice
Instructions
- Trim any excess fat from the pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adherence.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to create a dry spice rub.
- Thoroughly coat the entire pork tenderloin with the prepared spice mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Chop the onion into medium-sized pieces and mince the garlic cloves.
- Place the chopped onions at the bottom of the crockpot to create a flavorful base for the meat.
- Lay the seasoned pork tenderloin on top of the onions in the crockpot.
- Pour the orange juice around the sides of the pork, being careful not to wash off the spice rub.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat, cooking for 8 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the pork and shred it using two forks, discarding any large fat pieces.
- Optional: For crispy edges, spread the shredded meat on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until slightly crisp.
- Serve hot with warm tortillas, chopped cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges.
Tips
- Choose the right cut: While this recipe uses pork tenderloin, for even more traditional carnitas, consider using pork shoulder or pork butt for extra richness.
- Pat the meat dry before seasoning to help the spices adhere better and create a more flavorful crust.
- Don't skip the optional broiling step - it adds incredible crispy texture that elevates the entire dish.
- For maximum flavor, let the meat marinate in the spice rub for 30 minutes before cooking if time permits.
- Save the cooking liquid from the crockpot - it's packed with flavor and can be used to moisten the meat when serving.
- Carnitas freeze beautifully! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months for quick future meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
